Remembering September 11, 2001: A Day That Changed Us Forever
“Even in our darkest hour, we are stronger together”— Dr. Nicole Jones Wadsworth
Guest Opinion by Dr. Nicole Jones Wadsworth
Each year, as September 11 approaches, we pause to remember the day that forever altered the course of our nation. It is a day etched in our collective memory—not only for the horrific acts of destruction but for the courage, unity, and resilience that rose out of the ashes.
On that clear September morning in 2001, the world watched in disbelief as planes struck the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and a quiet field in Pennsylvania. Nearly 3,000 innocent lives were taken, families were shattered, and communities were left in mourning. The images remain seared into our hearts: firefighters climbing stairwells they would never descend, strangers helping strangers escape danger, loved ones making final calls to say "I love you."
But out of the devastation came something unshakable—the strength of the American spirit. In the days and weeks that followed, we saw neighbors comfort one another, lines form outside blood banks, and flags waving from front porches in every town. We rediscovered a deep truth: even in our darkest hour, we are stronger together.
Twenty-four years later, the pain is still real for the families who lost loved ones. Children grew up without parents, spouses live with empty chairs at the dinner table, and entire communities still feel the weight of absence. Today, we honor them with a commitment to live lives worthy of their memory—lives of service, compassion, and courage.
As we gather for memorial services, ring church bells, and bow our heads in prayer, let us remember that September 11 is a reminder of what we must never forget: freedom is fragile, unity is powerful, and the human spirit is unbreakable.
May we carry forward the lessons of that day—cherishing our loved ones, lifting up our neighbors, and working together for a safer, stronger United States of America.
Nicole Jones Wadsworth, PhD, MBA, MS
Republican Candidate, Lieutenant Governor of Alabama, nicoleforalabama.com
Opinions do not reflect the views and opinions of ALPolitics.com. ALPolitics.com makes no claims nor assumes any responsibility for the information and opinions expressed above.
