As we pause as a nation to remember those who perished on September 11, 2001, as well as the brave soldiers who have fallen in the fight against terrorism since then, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the many examples of selflessness and unity that still binds our country even 15 years later.
This poem, written by a student in New York City, one year later, reminds us of the strength and resilience our nation and our people possess, and the importance of remembering the good in the world, despite the many faces of evil.
In a New York classroom one year after 9-11, students composed the following 9-11 poem. A relative of the teacher had perished on that tragic day in Tower One of the World Trade Center. The victim left behind a 3-year-old.
september 11List of “Don’t Forgets” and “Remembers”

We were eight.

Before September 11th, we would wake up with a list of “Don’t Forgets”

Don’t forget to wash your face
Don’t forget to brush your teeth
Don’t forget to do your homework
Don’t forget to wear your jacket
Don’t forget to clean your room
Don’t forget to take a bath

After September 11th, we wake up with a list of “Remembers”

Remember to greet the sun each morning
Remember to enjoy every meal
Remember to thank your parents for their hard work
Remember to honor those who keep you safe
Remember to value each person you meet
Remember to respect other’s beliefs

Now we are nine.