This year marks the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attack on New York City, a day in history that holds significance to the entire nation, but is especially meaningful to New Yorkers because of how close to home it was for all of us on so many different levels. This September 11th some of us will be mourning the death of loved ones, and others will be remembering and honoring those we lost, that we only know by the acts of their courage and bravery during that time of crisis. At a time of such deep sorrow for all of New York, it is important for us to come together and be strong for one another, and support your neighbors, friends, and family through this time of remembrance and tribute.
There are plenty of events happening this weekend to pay tribute to the victims and first responders of 9/11 this weekend, and as well as events to help those families who lost loved ones in the attack. There are so many different ways that we can honor those who have fallen by building a better community for the future generations. Although we will never forget what has happened on September 11th, and we will never forget those who we lost, it is important to embrace hope and to continue to better the world around us, and to create a better tomorrow in the shadow of tragedy the legacy of the lost will live on in their absence.
In times of doubt and mourning, this is a poem that I have always thought of, and turned to for comfort. It was written by Mary E. Frye in the 1930s, but the sentiment holds true today, and I hope that it can bring you a moment of comfort as well as we remember all that we lost on September 11th, 2001.
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there; I did not die.
