We all marked today as the sixth year since Sept. 11. We all remember the day well, and will continue to for many years to come. While many of these thoughts, and memories, and images will remain, it’s the day and the events of today, Sept. 11, 2007 that will start to return to normal.
I wanted to make note of my observations of being in New York on 9/11, 2007, not for the sake of a major mile stone or any happening for that matter, I just couldn’t help but realize, at different moments through out the day that everything was “returning to normal.” My morning and I would assume every other person on our blocks’ morning was just as it was last week or on Monday. Nothing was different - everything felt just was it was yesterday. Expect, that is, for the my feelings of obligation to remember “that day.” (I use obligation loosely - we should remember the victims and the tragedy, but I can’t help but feel slightly put off by 9/11, seeing how often the government makes me remember and think about it weekly. And seriously, who really wants to really remember (relive) 9/11).
So maybe this explains some things. The fact that New Yorkers looked the same, smelled the same, and walked the same as the day before tells us that the country (at least as New York is concerned) is return or is back to “normal.” Perhaps with heavier hearts, more kind attitudes, and the since of, “we’re all in this together now,” is leading all of us to a similar place as we were before.
I’m sure we all experienced different moods, and events throughout our day based on our geographical location. However, I’m sure each of us remembered 9/11 in our own way. I feel that we should be allowed to remember major events in this way. Without feeling obligated to do so. After all, it means the most when you take the initiative, rather than feeling forced to take action.
I’m sure as you are reading this, you are trying really hard to follow me here…. if you have, great. If I’ve managed to loose you somewhere, post a comment, email me - whatever - and I’ll attempt to clear things up.
My point (I think): Americans are trying to move on, carrying on with our lives, but without forgetting the past. The past has shaped us into what we are. But it’s the future that will carry us to what we will be.
For now,
S
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