Remembering...

It is hard to believe that today marks the eighth anniversary of September 11. I remember the day vividly, from what I was wearing, where I was and what I felt like after the first bombing of the World Trade Center. I think we all will remember that day, as it was one of the darkest days for our country, much less our generation. I found this poem that was written a few days after 911 and thought it would be fitting to post, as it puts things into perspective. It is important to remember and never forget that day that shaped our nation.

A flag of honor, a flag for reflection.
It stands for us all uniting this nation.
It will keep in our minds this tragic day,
Memories of such heroic acts shall not go away.
As we look on this flag of cloth and thread,
A field of bright red for the blood that was shed.
Not just on this day of lasting memories,
But for lives that were given throught history.
Two towers of strength that rose up so high,
Reaching for dreams, they stretched to the sky.
They lay now in ruin at the hands of hate,
Great symbols of our nation have met this fate.
Out nation's military housed in a fortress of steel;
We're reminded this day that war is so real.
Hitting the heart of our power and might,
Rise up America, this terror we must fight!
Stars that shine on a field of bright blue,
Remind us of heroes with hearts so true.
An ordinary day, it had started out to be,
Soon their lives would be given for you and me.
A circle is drawn to stand for our nation's unity,
A nation coming together through such tragedy.
A reminder is given for all of America to see,
That our freedom is never really free.
"God Bless America" is written in white,
Make this your prayer each and every night.
God is always with us, He knows our needs
Bring America back to God, should be our decree.
Much was given, many were lost on this day,
A man of terror tried to take our spirit away.
Do not let our new found spirit and unity fade,
As you look on this flag, remember this day ...
9-11-01
© Lt. Tom RobinsonWilmington, NC Firefighter