Today I shared a deeply personal reflection on two converging realities: the recent tragic loss of Charlie Kirk, and the remembrance of September 11, 2001—now twenty-four years past.
I began by acknowledging the heavy weight of this day. Though much is being said about Kirk's assassination, I chose not to dwell on speculation. Instead, I wanted to take listeners back to my own 9/11 story, a story of fear, near-loss, and unexpected grace.
Like many, I remember where I was when the planes struck. I had just returned from a walk, turned on the television, and saw the first tower burning. At first, there was confusion—maybe an accident? But then, before my eyes, the second plane hit. Suddenly, we all knew: America was under attack.
That day became even more frightening for me when we learned that my daughter's boyfriend at the time had an 8:00 a.m. breakfast appointment at the top of the World Trade Center. For hours, we couldn't reach him. Phones were down, panic was everywhere, and all we could do was pray. Late that afternoon came the news: he had been delayed—late, for once in his punctual life—and spared. A twist of fate kept him alive.
Two weeks later, I flew into New York and witnessed the devastation firsthand—the smoking ruins, the posters of missing loved ones plastered on walls, and the tears of families searching for answers. That image of a mother crying, asking if anyone had seen her daughter, is seared into my heart forever.
Since that day, I've committed to supporting Tunnels to Towers—a reminder that the sacrifices of that day still echo, and families still carry the burden. For me, my small monthly gift is as essential as my mortgage or health insurance—it keeps the memory alive through action.
Takeaways & Things to Remember
Never Forget – 9/11 is not just history. For survivors, families, and first responders, the wounds are still fresh. Our duty is to remember and honor their stories.
Every Life Matters – One missed meeting or one delayed train can be the difference between life and death. Cherish the people around you today—you may never know what tomorrow brings.
Stories Carry Legacy – Younger generations don't have first-hand memory of that day. We must tell the stories, pass them down, and teach why remembrance matters.
Support Those Who Serve – Whether through organizations like Tunnels to Towers or local efforts, small acts of generosity keep communities strong.
Live Boldly in the Days of Awe – As the Jewish tradition teaches, the time between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is for reflection, reconciliation, and renewal. Ask yourself: What do I need to forgive, what do I need to change, and where do I need to be braver?
Closing Challenge
As we step into the year ahead, I challenge each of us to carry the memory of 9/11 not only in sorrow but in action. Let us live with boldness, bravery, courage, and power. Let us choose reconciliation where possible, forgiveness where needed, and courage where demanded.
The world remains dangerous, uncertain, and divided. But you and I can choose to be makers of peace, builders of hope, and storytellers of truth.
So as this day of remembrance closes, may we not only honor the past but also make a resolution: to live in such a way that the world is just a little bit safer, a little bit kinder, and a little bit better.
And may something awesome happen to you today.
