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World Trade Center, photograph by Elizabeth Periale, c. 1991

One of the most beautiful buildings in New York, my favorite place to have lunch when I worked downtown.

I lived in New York for many years. The twin towers were one of my favorite places to visit. I would go up to the top quite frequently, to gain perspective on my crazy, bustling city life. I had moved to Washington, D.C. in 2001 and was on my way to work that morning when suddenly it seemed as if no one's phones worked. The Metro was down; there were whispers of an attack on the Pentagon.

I stepped into a hotel and managed to call my supervisor (at the Smithsonian). As we talked she got word that all Federal employees were being sent home. We still weren't sure exactly what had happened or the extent. I'll never forget the long walk home back up 16th Street, with hundreds of others, as there was no public transportation. I entered my apartment and switched on the television in time to see the first (I think) tower fall.

I don't think I will ever feel completely safe, that America is invulnerable, again. I don't think anyone who lived through that day can. I am also still heartbroken about the loss of the Beautiful World Trade Center and all the lives that were lost in NY, D.C. and PA that day. the towers to me seem such a symbol of those lives lost. I hope that the memorial can be as beautiful as the towers once were.

Thinking back upon my years spent in both New York and Washington D.C. Also watching and eading other public tributes, connecting with friends and family.