nmah4239.xml

nmah4239.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-09-11

I was teaching third grade at St. Rose of Lima School in Haddon Heights, New Jersey. I had walked my class to the end of the hall for their restroom break when the first grade teacher came running up to me asking me if I had heard what happened. Being in class with 24 eight and nine years, I hadn't. When she told me that the World Trade Center had been hit by terrorists flying hijacked planes, I felt ill. I struggled to keep it together so the children wouldn't be upset. I gathered my class and brought them back to our classroom. The principal came by and asked me to step out into the hallway, and proceeded to tell me about the Pentagon, and Flight 93. My first thought was, "Where would they hit next?" I wanted to make sure my students were safe, and they wouldn't hear anything to alarm them. Children in the class had parents who were pilots, parents who traveled, and parents who worked in New York. Children are smart. They sensed something was up, so I told them that there were some people in the world who needed out prayers. We stopped what we were doing, and prayed. During lunch, I called my family members who worked for United Airlines, and anyone I thought may be in harm's way. A few days later, I found out that my college buddy, Mark Hemschoot, had been in the South Tower and hadn't escaped. I was filled with sadness for his wife and sons, and anger that a group of sick people with no respect for life could come into our country and kill wonderful Americans - especially an exceptional man like Mark. A volunteer fireman, children's basketball coach, loving husband, father, son, brother, friend. A man who gave so much of himself to improve other people's lives. The very opposite of the cowards who killed so many for no reason. I don't think the sadness and anger will ever leave me.

I try to appreciate every day God gives me. So many things have been put in perspective for me. I don't get upset about small things. I look at average people all around me, like those on Flight 93, and find a new definition of hero. I have an even deeper sense of patriotism. I never leave the house without telling my sons, Matt and Mike, that I love them.

I think we should remember that we live in the greatest country in the world. I think we should never take our freedom for granted. Most of all I think we should do whatever we have to do to perserve our wonderful American way of life. Anyone who doesn't appreciate it, or who does anything to undermine it, should leave.

We have always flown an American flag. The only change is our renewed sense of appreciation for all those who gave their lives for our freedom. We're prouder than ever to be Americans!