September 11th

Each year as the anniversary approaches, the weeks and days that lead up to September 11th are filled with memories. I think about all the times I went to those buildings. In college, I dated a guy whose Father worked for Merrill Lynch. We stopped in his office a few times. Many years later I would go there with out-of-town visitors as a point of interest. I remember being there when my Husband and I were just dating. The day they came down I remember watching the smoke billow into the sky. I remember that evening sitting around a table with friends making phone calls to check on those we knew. I remember the first subway ride into the city and the fear I felt when we were stopped on the tracks for an hour while they investigated a suspicions package. I remember the visible police presence on every street corner and the filling of buying beers for out of state fire fighters. I remember being pat down and having my hair checked for weapons before I boarded my flight just a day after planes were allowed to fly again.

That was such a hard time and the years that have followed have had some hurdles for so many people on so many levels. I’m glad that sadness is fading into our country’s past and that we are all trying to find ways to heal. As I remember the brave and the innocent I have something positive to focus on as well. One of the most amazing people I have ever met celebrates her birthday on September 11th. She is by far the kindest woman I have known. She is my friend and God Mother to one of my children. She lights up a room when she walks in and makes you want to be a better person. I don’t get to see her often but our time together is always a happy time.
So come this Friday, as we feel the pain of a hole in our land, I will also feel the joy of a dear friend in my heart.

Happy Birthday Michele!