I’ve never been to New York, and have never even been close. But it doesn’t matter. What happened 13 years ago today still resonates with those near and far.

Never Forget

Prior to the tragic events on 9/11/2001, I wasn’t around for many events that changed our world forever. So, I could never really understand the impacts they had. Until this day.

It was a strange time. It was the year I started going out with my new boyfriend (now husband). We had been going out for nearly 3 months at this time, a long-distance relationship. He’d drive 1.5 hours at least once a month to see me.

A few days after 9/11, I remember he was going to come down, and he called to let me know something had struck his windshield and left a big crack in it. Prior to 9/11, I wouldn’t have thought much of it. But after, my first thought was, “He must have been shot at because they think he looks like a terrorist.

He had dark hair and a beard. Thus, in my mind, he might have been targeted. Sounds so crazy when I think about it, but it just reminds me that life would never be the same.

Just recently, my mom told me that decals are no longer needed for entrance onto military bases. On the one hand, it is a cost-saving move. On the other hand, I think it was a move to not easily identify military vehicles.

It’s scary to think about. I’d always seen these decals as something to be proud of. Whenever I’d see cars without it, I’d think what a shame it is. I felt pretty damn lucky to have a father who was in the military. It felt like a community. It always felt safe on the base.

Despite the changes, one thing is certain: Appreciate life. Appreciate the people in your life. We cannot change the past, cannot control our fates. But we can live, laugh and love. Stop holding on to grudges. Let go. Move forward.