I was only 11 years old when it happened. The night before, I went to bed and the biggest evil I had ever seen or experienced was the torment of 6th grade. I went to sleep in one world only to wake in another.
When I drowsily walked out of my room that morning, my mom was standing in front of the T.V. She almost never had the T.V. on, especially before school. She was standing there crying as her eyes stayed locked on the screen. I came around and into view of the picture that had my mom so horrified. I don’t remember if anything was ever said between us, all I can remember is standing there captivated and confused. What was I looking at? Black smoke billowed from the building, people were screaming and crying, and then the camera followed as a man threw himself from the building. Things had been hard for me that year and at times I thought it was the end of the world, but that day something changed; I no longer felt safe. I was on the opposite side of the country, but the fear took over. That day when she dropped me off at school, I hugged my mom a little longer.
It took a long time, but soon I decided that I had to stop being afraid. The more I was afraid, the more “they” won. I decided it was time to fight back. I am not a member of the military, I am not a politician, police officer, or a fireman. I am an AMERICAN. I am not just any American either, I am proud American. I am thankful for the rights our constitution grants us and I will do my part to preserve them. I am grateful to all those who have fought for me; from the revolution to those enlisting or in ROTC now. I thank God for all He has given. My two weapons against those who attacked: I will be a patriot and I will never forget. My hope is that everyone give honor where honor is due.
1 comment:
Well said my dear, you are a patriot and I am proud of you.
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