I was on a break from grad school and work, enjoying my morning routine of watching GMA. Towards the end of the program, minutes before they were ending the show, they broke in with the first tower. Like so many, it was thought to be an accident of a small plane. Then the second and shortly after that, they were talking to a journalist near the Pentagon and then unexpectedly, you saw the smoke.

My first thought…we are under attack! In actuality, we were, just not the entire country as I had envisioned. I wanted to feel safe, even at 31…I called my dad. We watched together in horror and I asked him if we should be seeking safe harbor.

We watched all day, we called friends and family in New York…so many we could not get through to…I felt so helpless.

I remember ever detail of the coverage, the images I can never wipe from my mind…unimaginable acts of courage and desperation.

I thank God we did not lose anyone close, yet I was there to witness so many that did. My good friend and I visited NYC in October…we chose not to be afraid and follow-through with a planned trip. Unbeknownst to us, it was the day of the memorial for the families and somehow we were guided by police across the barricades. Those images will forever be imprinted in my heart.

NYC is one of my favorite places in the world and a big part of my heart broke that day. Yet I continue to visit and create new cherished memories. I will never forget all the sacrifices and pray for all those affected that they have found peace and hope.