Remembering 9/11
Back in February, I mentioned that I went to NYC to visit a friend and was fortunate enough to get tickets to the Rangers-Panthers game at Madison Square Garden. What I didn’t mention in that post was that I also took the time to visit Ground Zero. I’ve only been to NYC twice in my life, both post-9/11. The first time was almost three years after that tragic day, but I was there for a journalism camp and wasn’t allowed to explore the city. However when I returned this year, I knew I wanted to visit the site and pay my respects.
I also visited St. Paul’s Chapel. Whether you agree with the chapel’s beliefs or not, this place was truly a haven during the aftermath of the attacks. As you can see from my photo below which is the view from the back steps of the church onto Ground Zero, this church was literally across the street from the events.
It was amazing to learn that not a single window in the church was broken despite being so close. The chapel turned into a refuge and haven for rescue/recovery workers who worked 12 hour shifts. While church services are still held weekly there, the chapel stands as a memorial to those who served during this tragic time in American history. I saw pews where you could still see the scuff marks and soot/ashes from the workers’ boots after they had rested on the pew.
Before I left the chapel, I lit one of the candles shown in the picture below. These candles are continuously lit throughout the year as a reminder of the tragic events. It was a truly touching place to visit and I recommend making a stop there if you are ever in NYC.
The images of the two towers falling still haunts my memory, but the memorial at St. Paul’s Chapel reminded me of how so many incredible volunteers rose to the occasion giving our nation hope and strength during a time of sorrow.
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2 Responses to “Remembering 9/11”
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September 11th, 2008 at 12:16 am
I too had the opportunity to visit Ground Zero. We went to NYC for a weekend trip in May 2007. We stayed in New Jersey and only visited the city for a few hours, but that was one place we had to visit. I guess it’s something you really have to see to understand the emotional power. We were fortunate enough to meet a survivor and sat and talked to him for a while. Hearing his story was sad and refreshing at the same time. Regardless of any demographic, it reminded us that we are all human and all Americans, and we should stand together. Thank you for this post. It is a very respectful tribute that I am sure many others will appreciate as well.
September 11th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
It is still weird Christy….7 years later and seeing the towers collapse from my work still occasionally haunts me. It is a numbing feeling few can describe. Any tribute big or small is greatly appreciated.