Changed Lives: Remembering 9/11

How could this happen to us? We saw it on TV and in other news media … terrorist attacks in Israel, Egypt and some parts of Africa. But on that September morning it happened on American soil and our world was never the same.

It was 10 years ago the Twin Towers collapsed in front of me. I was working on 41^st Street in Manhattan New York. I was sipping coffee and starting my day in the office when I heard the news. From my office I saw the planes … the smoke … more smoke … fire in the distance sky … then one tower collapsed then the other.

Where were you on that day?

My wife was working in midtown Manhattan too, looking at the Twin Towers just like many New Yorkers on that historic day. There were ashes and the sky was gloomy as we walked home to our apartment in New York City amongst the noise of fire engines and police cars’ sirens.

Ironically, the Friday before this event we had just gotten a contract to purchase a home in Livingston. It will be 10 years this December when we moved to our home. I love New York City but my wife and I moved to New Jersey for more space for the children, lawn and an excellent school system.

What have you done differently since September 11?

The event did change my perspective in life. Here are some of them:

1. Keep it Simple: Don’t over-complicate things. Be happy with what you have and do your very best with what you have. We do not know what is ahead of us.
2. Safety and patience: I value safety at home, at work and while traveling. I think waiting in line at the airport or any event is necessary. We need to ensure safety in the planes and at a sporting or musical event. So the next time you have the tendency to "complain" while waiting at the airport … think again.
3. Connect and serve: While being glued to the TV the entire day on 9/11, we saw firemen running into the Twin Towers and we heard that many lost their lives while on duty. They gave sacrificially and did not think about their own safety but did what they were called to do. There is a higher purpose in each of our lives. We work, we play, we connect and serve our community for a better and safer place.
4. Never assume: Always be prepared for emergencies and don’t assume or take anything for granted. I have written several articles on emergency preparedness and would like to say it again: Live prepared for any situation. Make sure you have a support group as well.

Are you still scared?

Has an event such as 9/11 crossed your mind lately? I remember my cousins who live in Queens, New York, walking home from Manhattan with thousands doing the same. The train stopped, the cabs stopped … the whole world stopped that day.

As we remember 9/11 this Sunday, let’s put our differences, attitudes and assumptions aside. Put a smile on your face and greet the people you meet along the way.

Make it a day where you reach out and touch someone’s life. Remember my priorities are simple -- they’re yours! Let me know your thoughts.