I was at work. No radio no tv. Heard some people coming into the building telling others of what happened. Went to the Maintenance Room (where I knew a tv was) and watched in horror as the first tower collapsed. My dad works in New York (a few blocks from the WTC). I tried calling him on his cell phone. No answer, but no surprise as he never had it on. Tried calling my mom at home. Couldn’t get through. I panicked. My father was supposed to be in a meeting in the WTC that day and I wasn’t sure if he was there or not. Finally got a hold of my mother. She said his meeting was cancelled and he was in his office and safe. He was going to be coming home soon.

I was petrified. It was probably the most unproductive day across America. I couldn’t concentrate on anything and had a million thoughts running through my mind. I finally had enough sense to call my son’s school to make sure he was ok and checked to see if they had an early dismissal.

Went home a little early and sat there on the sofa glued to the television. I would stand on my balcony and look to where the towers were supposed to be and only saw smoke. My heart was broken for all those who lost their lives and loved ones. I had lit a candle that night on my balcony and every night thereafter for two months. It was a horrific day and one that I hope will not happen again.

God Bless America, for we perservered.