America Cried

I don't have a personal story of tragedy to tell, nor did I lose a loved one during 9/11. But I remember where I was, I remember the fear I felt, the heartbreak, and the tears I cried.

I was at a doctor's office waiting in the lobby for a friend. The TV program went fuzzy then changed over to the news. Everyone moved closer to the viewing area, nurses, doctors even came out and stood. There was total silent in the room, the shock was readable in each one of us as we stood together. Many of us just total strangers, moved closer to one another for comfort and the tears began.

Within the next half hour I was at the school picking up my children early along with several other parents. Fear had set in many of us and we wanted our children home. The school was already prepared and students where waiting in the gyms. Those that didn't go home reminded closely with teachers that stayed and together they watched the events unfold on television.

The rest of my day was spent like many others.  I watched and waited for word about what was happening. Family and friends came and we remained close during the next week. Prayer groups were held and supplies to help out were gathered.

My daughter visited Ground Zero years later. She said the dark empty hole was the saddest thing she had ever seen. One could not help but cry for the many lives that were lost. She was honored to meet one of the first firefighters there. His photo with her remains displayed in her room.

Can you remember where you were? How has 9/11 changed your life?

www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KpxSD…

The Day America Cried

There was something wrong, so very wrong,
The news was pouring in,
As the planes just kept on fallin' ... from the skies.
Then the hopes and dreams of millions, were changed forevermore,
All our tears declare, the day our heroes died.

CHORUS
I'll never forget... America CRIED...
As lives were lost... from all across the land.
The flag was unfurled... And bravely replied...
The day ... Our heroes died.
The day... America Cried...

I will not forget those little ones, whose parents lost their lives,
Nor the rescue teams who paid the awful price,
Or the gallant ones who struggled, There aboard flight ninety-three,
As they gave their lives to take it from the skies.

CHORUS
I'll never forget... America CRIED...
As lives were lost... from all across the land.
The flag was unfurled... And bravely replied...
The day... Our heroes died.
The day... America Cried...

2001 Doyle Armstrong