story3110.xml

story3110.xml

born-digital

story

yes

no

2002-09-11

On Sept. 11, 01 I was on my way to the Hudson County Courthouse in Jersey City, NJ to appear before Judge M. Gallipolli for a trial call. I remember sitting on Routes 1&9 in traffic being annoyed at the backup and prosepect of being late for court. As I sat, I looked up and noticed that one of the Word Trade Center Towers was on fire. I then became more annoyed as I believed the traffic was due to rubbernecking at the distant blaze. At approximately 8:50am I called the Court to advise them that I would be a little late for trial. After getting off the phone, I looked up and noticed a plane flying near the Tower that was smoking. I thought to myself, "Wow, that's odd that traffic control would allow a commercial plane to fly so near a burning building." As I watched in disbelief, I saw the plane approach the Tower, circle behind it, disappear, and moments later witnessed an incredible ball of fire. Then I thought, "Wow, an explosion! I hope the plane didn't get caught in the blast." It did not occur to me as I witnessed the plane deliberately fly into the Tower that the plane was the cause of the explosion. My mind simply could not process such an unthinkable horrific act. After arriving at the courthouse I stood with other attorneys looking out a window at the blazing Twin Towers as people jumped in desperation from the blaze, praying that my aunt who rode the PATH trains to the World Trade Center every day was not on a train when the Towers were struck. I then watched in horror and dismay as the first Tower collapsed and then was informed that the Pentagon was struck by a plane. At that time, nothing seemed more important to me than the safety of my family, friends and loved ones. Life and my place in it took on a new meaning - an easier stride. May all those who lost a loved one be comforted in the bossom of our Creator who is the ultimate Comforter and all Merciful.

Peace & Blessings to All
Sonji A. Moore, Esq.
Lanham, Maryland