Remember 9/11

Dear Colleagues,

On September 11, 2001, our country and the world changed as a result of the tragic events many of us witnessed that fall morning.  It is now a date that has been engraved in our national memory, passed down from generation to generation.  

Today, we must all take a moment of silence and remember those we have lost, as well as the first responders and others who in the ensuing days and months showed selfless acts of humanity as they worked at these hallowed sites.

In our reflection, we must also remember the lessons of that day:  we faced difficult times and endured; our country came together in solidarity; and as Americans, our faith in freedom and democracy became stronger.  

For all of us, the words of the great Nelson Mandela can bring added meaning and perspective to 9/11, and I humbly share them with you, “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

We honor all those who passed on 9/11 by upholding these lessons and values and aspiring to Nelson Mandela’s words. 

Respectfully,

Sandra J. Doran