Where were you on that fateful day
In September 2001?
Were you busy at work or learning at school
Or had your day just barely begun?
Did you watch it unfold
As it aired on TV?
Was your heart uncertain and scared?
Did you ask yourself, “How can this be?”
The world stood still and everyone watched;
We sat in disbelief and in shock.
How could there be such evil?
Our faith and trust they did rock.
Shaken and battered,
Afraid and unsure,
Forward we moved,
Knowing unity could cure.
People all over stepped in and stepped up.
Amidst all the sadness, the terror, and pain,
Selfless heroes helped others,
Not seeking any personal gain.
While some ran away to escape the debris,
Others ran in, one objective in mind:
To help who they could whatever the cost,
And do their best to save lives.
As the dust settled down,
And we began to restore,
As a country we came together,
Unified and changed evermore.
As those who did witness
The events of that day,
We must never forget
And must teach our children to do the same.
Teach them to love, to be kind, and uplift,
Show them how to lead with kindness and grace.
Ensure that they know that hate never wins,
That love conquers all, and everyone has a place.
Teach them to care, to listen, and help.
To look out for others, to lend a hand when they’re called.
Above all else, let them never forget:
United we stand, divided we fall.
-Logan Nielsen, 2025
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As today marks 24 years since the tragic events of September 11, 2001 took place, may we all take a moment to reflect on that day and the people whose lives were forever changed because of those events. May we teach our students and our children about this day, just like our parents and teachers taught us about previous wars and history-making/changing events. Let us encourage all we come in contact with to be a little kinder, a little more gentle, and a little more helpful. May we spread kindness and love whenever we can, and may we never forget this day.