nmah1451.xml

nmah1451.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-09-06

I was getting ready for work. I teach 3rd grade in Bakersfield, California. My son, who is in college, was asleep and his friend called and told him to turn on the TV. He called to me, "Mom,you better come and see this. Something crazy is happening in New York." I watched with utter horror having visited the World Trade center on a trip to New York. Sadly I went to school and the children were very scared and concerned that it could happen here. Most didn't understand that hate usually happens where it will get the most attention, and Bakersfield probably wouldn't give the killers the coverage they were seeking. I returned to New York this summer and was astonished at how different the mood of the city was. It wasn't just a city block that was gone, but the spirit of the city was different. There was a feeling of defeat in the air that I haven't experienced before. The effects on our country will never go away.

I am frightened that the country I love is now seen as a target for hate. It was always a comfort to think we were safe from terror on our own shores.

That we must not give in to hate and terror. We must stand up for what our country is about. Freedom, liberty, justice. We can't let the terrorist win by taking away our home.

Yes, we flew the flag. I am very cognizant of the flag and take it very personally when I see someone abuse it. We say the pledge each morning in my class with respect and pride.