Life-Affirming Actions Came from Tragedy

On the ten-year anniversary of the horrific and unforgettable terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, many of us across this
country will be inclined to think back to that day and remember the fear, uncertainty, sadness, and anger that we felt.

We will recall where we were, what we were doing, who we were with, and how our whole world seemed to stand still as we struggled to comprehend what we were bearing witness to.

Those of us who were young children, like myself, in school and about to begin another day of learning, received more of a world education than we ever expected. From all across the nation, people stopped what they were doing, trying helplessly to make sense of something that they had never experienced before, something that they simply could not rationalize.

Confusion eventually turned into clarity, and information was brought to light not only identifying those who were responsible for the terrorist attacks, but also those who responded heroically and selflessly to those attacks, risking their lives for others.

Whether those people were the first responders who went into burning buildings trying to help where they could or the brave souls aboard Flight 93 who acted courageously and made the tough choice to take action rather than simply wait, these are American heroes who on a dark day reminded us all that good will always stare evil in the face and challenge it.

And so, as we perhaps spend Sept. 11, 2011, reflecting on the sorrow we experienced and the pain we felt, the anniversary might be better spent remembering how our country came together, uniting behind our ideals and principles, the very foundations of the United States.

We grieved together, embracing each other and reassuring one another that we would get through this and emerge strong and healed. We learned, and must always remember, that those ideals and principles which unite us as Americans, as free people, are far greater than anything which divides us.

Sept 11, 2001, though tragic, solidified our love for and appreciation of this great country. Through the ash, smoke, tears, and broken hearts, we emerged ready to stand together, ready to defend what we cherish, and protect our fellow citizens, our brothers and sisters.

At the end of the day, no matter what differences we have, what views we disagree with, we are all Americans; and we will always stand up for freedom and liberty, we will always unite behind each other and show the world that the land of the free and the home of the brave remains exactly that.

May God bless those who lost their lives ten years ago, those whom they left behind, and all those who fight for and defend our country; God bless the United States of America.

Matthew Starr is the tax collector and youth committee chairman for .