In Memory

As you read the news today, there is no escaping the significance of this day. Like many monumental days in history, we tend to reflect and remember where we were on that particular day of infamy.

I was living in Wasilla, Alaska at the time and it was one of those days when I felt being that far away from my family and friends in NJ and Pennsylvania was particularly difficult. I was also scheduled to have my very first surgery in two days and the thought of going under general anesthesia, something that was creating huge anxiety for me the days leading up to September 11th, now seemed to be an insignificant concern.

I remember watching the television over the next few days and hearing the individual stories of some of the beautiful people whose lives prematurely ended on that day. I couldn't help but think of the pain and grief the families of the those who lost their lives. I couldn't help but to feel guilty for worrying about something so mundane on a day when others had to deal with such a major tragedy.

Over the next few days I received the phone calls from family and friends and learned how some people I had known were included among those who passed on that day. Too many people perished and we do live in a small world; it is hard to think of anyone who was not touched in some manner by this tragedy.

Like many Americans, I still feel anger that a few uncaring individuals were willing to senselessly murder so many good souls on this day. I still cringe how people throw out the term “nine eleven” as a buzz word or remember this as a day of terrorism. It was a tragic day, but there was no terror, because I will never cower to a misguided ideology that justifies senseless murder. I didn't on September 11, 2001 and I still feel no terror today. I hope most other Americans share that sentiment.

Still, today is a significant day because we should remember the beautiful people who passed away on September 11, 2001. There will be many opportunities for remembrance and below is a link to one special location that I am aware of:

Garden of Reflection

I write this blog post in memory of Vic Saracini. He was a person who I did not know very well, but Vic Saracini would visit my bagel store on occasion and share some kind conversation with us.

He was a man who I know deeply cherished his family. He happened to share a story with me about the feeling of returning to his daughters after a trip. The smile on his face as he talked about his family told me more than the words he said.

We all have different memories and emotions about this day. I only hope you take the time in your thoughts to think of the wonderful people like Vic Saracini. They will be dearly missed.