Remembering 9/11

I woke up this morning at 5:45, 15 minutes earlier than usual. For some reason the Cadet Wing was having a morning formation (all 4000+ cadets gather to salute the flag as it is raised for the day). I had no idea why. I scurried out to my squadron's form up, sized into the formation and stood there wondering- Why are we out here? Not until I saw the flag raise did I realize that today was September 11th.

It's hard to believe that 5 years have passed. Half a decade since those terrible acts were carried out on American soil. I can remember that morning like it was yesterday. It was the fourth day of my freshman year at South, and I was supposed to bring in a share and tell item for World Studies with Mr. Schnoreberg. I woke up and saw the TV on, looking in terror as they recounted the events that had occured earlier in the morning. I watched right until the last moment before I left for class, forgetting that item for show and tell. Class went on as scheduled, but everything felt different. The world had changed. It didn't feel as safe anymore.

A year later in Clem's class I remember debating whether or not to invade Afghanistan/Iraq. Looking back I feel quite the fool. I didn't argue for the invasion, but I felt that if we did invade it would be quick- in and out type stuff. Four years later and we are still there. Sure, "The War" supposedly lasted a couple of months. Sure we defeated the Taliban, and Sadaam is no longer the head of Iraq, but this war is definitely not over.

Today, say a prayer for those who lost a loved one in those attacks 5 years ago. Say a prayer for those people risking their lives in Iraq not for their own freedom but for others(doesn't seem like something I'd really want to do). Heck, say a prayer for anyone, anywhere that you think might need it, because I guarantee it will be a better world if you do.