Reflections of 9-11: Five Years Later
Reflections of 9-11: Five Years Later It brings me to tears thinking of the dear innocents who lost their lives, the survivors who lost their innocents.
My own Memories are of watching the attack live via web streams with two of my favorite co-workers: Marcia Cain, who was born & raised in New York and Tarek Hassan, who was born & raised in Egypt but was now an American Citizen.
It was Marcia (possibly the most intelligent woman I have ever known) who first said "This is terrorism. You watch, it is from the Middle East", while Tarek and I sat our eyes riveted to monitors. Perhaps two minutes later it occurred to me and I voiced it to Tarek. "Call your wife and in-laws, tell them to stay inside. Do not let them go out". Yes, one never knows of other's reactions and if ALL Middle Eastern appearing people will become targets.
Marcia refused to stop working. She was calling her clients, setting up meetings. I was too stunned to do much other than watch the live feeds. Not Marcia, she proclaimed aloud that she would not be changed. (she was so ahead of the game with her innate knowledge of what the terrorists hoped to achieve.)
Tarek called his mother in law, telling her to cancel her appointment that day and to stay inside. I offered to follow Tarek home, just in case anyone tried to harm him, I thought I could vouch for him, letting people know he was not a terrorist but a husband, father, coworker, good guy and American.
You see, the attack had already changed me. It changed us. The attack changed the world.
But not how the terrorists wished.
We are stronger. We are more steadfast in our own religions. We are steadfast in our love of our countries.
It is time I start work on www.ApplePiePatriots.com I believe we need to teach our youth how to be Patriotic.
So today, I celebrate those who Serve, those who serve those who serve. I celebrate Friends Around the World. I celebrate the ways we are the same. I celebrate the ways we are unique. And I celebrate LIFE. I Thank my GOD, my Family, my Friends.
Please join me in sharing your thoughts, your memories, your love for your country, and the countries of Friends and Love for Friends Around The World.
(Where were you on 9-11? How has this changed you? How do you show your Patriotism? How many new friends around the world do you have due to the music of Andre Rieu? How many countries have you learned about because of these Fans who are Friends?)
On 9/11 it was very difficult to visualize this happening in our country. Andre brings the power of positive thinking through his music where words can no longer express. Keep the faith and love in your heart.Joan
I agree. Andre's music has brought people from around the globe together.
I continue to believe there is more good than bad.
Hello Dear Fans,
I was going to school on that heart-breaking morning. I was in 4th grade, and I didn't know what was wrong! People kept talking about two planes that crashed. After school, my mom explained to me. I have a movie of the whole story. I was broken-hearted when I saw how people jumped out of the windows, and crashed on the ground. I'm very glad that Andre wrote that song about America's Heroes. It makes me cry.
love,
Sarah
Has anyone watched the movie: The Patriot? (staring Mel Gibson)
It is a good look at a war fought for our Freedom along with the horror that goes with it.
I haven't seen the movie, although I have thought about watching it many times. I enjoy Mel Gibson. I will watch it sometime. I know that there will probably be innocents being killed and sadness and fighting...and I also know that the story is probably very true in many ways. It seems to me that the only way we can have our freedoms any longer is to fight for it...and I wonder why that should be?? Our freedom should be a right we have as human beings. I know it's not, but it should be.
Marlene, your exact concern is what the movie is about. Mel's part in the movie is loosely based on the swamp fox. He is known for his fighting, but when first asked to call for war against England, he refuses to vote, saying he has 7 children, and therefore not the luxury of having principles.
I DID watch this movie last night!What a lump in my throat as Benjamin,towards the end, carries the huge flag! My favorite lines in the movie were when Charlotte says to Benjamin," You've done nothing of which to be ashamed." He answers her with " I've done NOTHING! Of that I am ashamed."
Wasn't that a great quote? !
So little was made of the movie on it's release, yet watching it I found the sub-plots. The fact this man knew it was amongst the families this battle would wage. How he tried to save his children, but had to fight for them and lose them, to save them. Such agony and sorrow. I loved the Voice Over option, which when present I always watch with it on, after seeing a movie the first time.
Mel needs to put in check whatever issues he has, and continue with movies. He has done some really good work.
Well said. I agree, he IS such a good actor.
I have not seen the movie either, but plan to do so, maybe this weekend.As for freedom, I believe it's never "free". there's usually a price to be paid, and many have done so.I thank them. I like this quote from someone...""I've learned-
that heroes are the people
who do what has to be done
when it needs to be done,
regardless of the consequences." We need more heroes. I thank those who are.
""I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands: one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
Hello, this is a very touching and important topic. It always affects me when I think about it. I have much I would love to say on this topic, but it's too late for me to comment. Please allow me to comment tomorrow evening...it will be late, however I do wish to say something. Thank you.
Horror-disbelief-sadness,and yes, fear. Those are the emotions I felt as I watched,on TV,the pictures before me.
At first you think, how could an "accident" like this happen, then when you see the second plane deliberatly
head for the other tower, the horror sets in.Then as more news of other planes in other places ,that's where the fear sets in.
We are being attacked! But who, we ask, would do such a thing? We see now that we ARE vulnerable,we have been attacked
in our own land. Had we, some of us, taken our freedom and liberty for granted? Maybe.Now we really understand there
are those who hate us, hate our way of life, our freedom."They want to "bring us down", to weaken us,to bring us to our knees.
But they don't know one thing.We are at our best when on our knees. We come together in times of trouble.
"From the ashes of the hate of a few, grows the love of many". Over the years many have fought and died for our freedom, our way of life, our liberty.
And we wish, not only for ourselves, but freedom for all people.We all share this planet, we are "friends around the world".
May the spirit of freedom prevail everywhere.Hatred and evil cannot win.
Shirley,how can You write so beautiful, gets to the soul the heart,the mind, You should have been a writer!! It was the saddest day in modern US history, We should never forget all those innocent people, some working, some working to get the injured and the hurt out, and they lost their lifes also, really sad, I just hope this Nation can overcome this and come out better, wiser, more careful, looking out for each other. Freedom is priceless! Kati
Thank you Shirley,
for mentioning all that. Right now, I'm wearing a flag shirt with a flag pin. My heart aches when I think about that day.
love,
Sarah
P.S. Shirley, I think you should be a public speaker, you're good at it!
Where were you on 9-11?
September 11, will forever be etched in my mind as a day I will never forget.
It was supposed to be a happy day for us, as it is my brother’s birthday, a day of celebration. A day we would go out and have a good time. Instead, it was a day of disbelief and heartache.
My mom and brother were in the living room watching the early morning news when I first saw the news reports coming in, my mom told me what was happening. We thought that a plane had accidentally flew into the tower, and thought how horrible that was. When I continued watching the news I saw the other plane…and everyone saw it as it flew into the other tower. Mother said it has to be a terror attack.
I had to go to work, and it was very hard for me. I wanted to be glued to the tv all day…I didn’t wish to move, I wanted some miracles out of all this…I wanted people to find their loved ones…I wanted it all to go away and to be a bad dream. I did go to work and everyone had their tv’s on, of course, everyone was feeling what I was feeling and the shock and disbelief was everywhere.
For weeks there was not a day that went by that I didn’t have tears for those people; for all who were affected by this disaster. I had friends who lost friends.
I had never heard of such a thing on American soil. It is still hard to believe that anyone would do such a thing.
The days followed and people would hold up pictures of their loved ones wondering if anyone had seen them. The heartache of watching this was almost too much. I really felt for them. How could anyone on earth do this to another human being? The innocent people…and for what purpose? Hate? Can there be this much hate in someone?
When I saw the picture of Andre Rieu at the Trade Center site, I saw his cheek where the tears were…he felt it too, the sadness and heartache. Andre had my heart from the moment I first heard him and saw the expressions in his eyes, but to see this emotion from him…he did have my heart and I knew that the world had felt the heartache too.
Andre has touched my life in many ways…from his beautiful music to his expressions and his heartfelt compassions. So many heartfelt songs and so much love and peace and happiness. When I hear his music I see people and I wish with all my heart that I can make everyone happy and to know peace and love.
I believe that Andre has changed my life in an incredible way…I’m more compassionate about people, I feel their pains and their joys. The music I hear him play touches that part of me that doesn’t allow anything negative and it truly allows me to understand more about love and happiness.
Today, September 11, 2006, I watched the Good Morning America show, and it was, of course, a tribute to the World Trade Center disaster. I listened, felt the heartache all over again and the tears came again. (continued)
(continued)
The children who lost their parents and the brothers, mothers, fathers, sisters, friends and loved ones who lost someone…will the pain ever go away? No, of course not, how can this ever be erased from our minds and hearts?
Only time will heal, only time will ease the pain…there is not enough time yet…because it comes slowly.
The World Trade Center disaster, it made me know that there really is hate, that people have such hate in their hearts that they take lives. A life…such a precious thing…no one has the right to take another person’s life for any reason. In asking why? Is a cause worth a precious life? No, of course not.
Thanks for listening.
In answer to the questions:
How do you show your Patriotism?
I find myself more intolerant of people who are not patriotic…I love America. I love the freedom’s and the power this country has to help the world. I do not like anything about war…war is needless. I must say here that my heart goes out to all those men over there fighting for freedom’s and the causes they are sent to protect and purposes they are sent to uphold. I understand in my mind why they are there and why there are wars…but on the other hand, I do not understand why it takes death and fighting to accomplish a goal, a dream or an idea. I will always be a Patriot…but I will never love war. I believe that peace is a far better way to be Patriotic…with peace and harmony, we have a worldwide love and a world of people who are compassionate for life! We cannot have life when there is such a passion for war.
How many new friends around the world do you have due to the music of Andre Rieu?
I have many new friends because of Andre Rieu. It's so amazing the people I have “met” since I’ve known of Andre. Soon, I’m going to meet five people I have never seen before…because of Andre. It’s almost like it’s a “need” to meet someone who is also a fan of Andre. In my mind there is a “connection” with people when they meet. Like, it’s all a fantasy, until our lives touch in some way…on the internet is special, but actually meeting someone, now that’s a wonderful “connection”. I have never “met” so many people who are so friendly and have heart and love and peace, as those I have “met” due to the music of Andre Rieu.
How many countries have I learned about because of these Fans who are Friends?
I’ve come to love anything about Tuscany, I loved it before, but now…it’s almost a passion with me. I love anything Dutch, I want to learn the language…I don’t know that I will ever be able to go to Holland…but I want to learn that beautiful language. I’ve always loved anything Dutch, all my life…now it also is a passion with me. I never thought that I would dare go across the ocean to another country…I could not imagine doing such a thing…now. I’m ready to go to The Netherlands…to see this beautiful country and to experience anything and everything there is to see. I want to learn German. I want to see Europe. I want to see France…especially the Dordogne region. I read everything I can find in travel magazines, I’ve bought dictionaries and language courses, music and I even bought a magazine that was in French. I cannot read French, but the pictures were great!
Thanks everyone, I know that I wrote a lot here, I hope you were not too bored.
Don't forget to visit our Lyrics section on the Music & More Page
Music & More
Lost Heroes
Ocean bird, I wish to tell you
A story from a long time ago.
Oh ocean bird, I wish to tell you
A sad old song that you must know.
America, so many heroes
They left their homes and crossed the waves.
America, you sent your young boys
Oh ocean bird, how must I tell you
That sad old song? They came to save us!
America, so many heroes
They lost their lives and filled the graves.
America, we love your heroes
America, we are your friends
America, we’ll always love you
And keep you in our hearts and hands.
America, so many heroes
They left their homes and crossed the waves
America you die of grief now
Oh ocean bird, how must I tell you
That sad new song? They are in pain now!
America we share your sorrow,
America, let hope remain…
Hello Sally, I do have the melody in my ears, how can You not weep when You hear this beautiful tribute? Kati
Hi Kati: Same here. That songs brings the tears. So many heroes. So many gave their lives that others might live free.
What really gives me goosebumps are the beautiful words, that Andre using in tribute to America, just like make a tribute to their own solders, I am glad american solders never forgotten gave their lives, it is really appreciated in this generation. It does make me feel, like hearing my own national anthem, or the american anthem, brings tears to my eyes. Kati
Marlene: You are never boring. I am thankful you shared. -)
Boring? Never! I think you echo a lot of our thoughts and feelings, but you know how to put it into words.I believe you are like me, in a way, we see a world we wish was. If it wasn't for all the good people in the world, the world could not survive, the evil and hate would destroy it.
Shirley, I will always see the world as I wish it was. I've been told many times that I'm not being realistic. But what is real? To me, what's real is what's in our hearts and all the beautiful possibilites, that's what is truly real to me...everything else...the hate and evil...that's not real to me...and I can see that it's here on earth, but I will forever fight it.
I hope we will succed in destroying Evil, for the sake of the good, it is a common goal of the World today! Kati
Yes. Let us remember that Andre himself went to Ground Zero. He was so moved by the site, it brought tears to his eyes. (Same thing happened to me this past July when I was in New York for the Radio City Hall concert)
Andre gave a wonderful tribute to those who gave, Andre, Jean Philippe and Marjorie gave tribute in song.
I don't see how anyone could stand there and NOT be moved!And I think of what andre said once, "when it touches my heart it will touch yours".He seems to be a very compassionate person.And I am always touched by the song Lost Heroes. the words and the music.
Thank you Sally for putting up the words again to that incredibly wonderful and touching song "Lost Heroes". I close my eyes and reflect on this beautiful piece of music I thank Andre, Jean-Philippe and Marjorie, every time I hear it for composing the music and the lyrics. I like you Shirley and Sally, are forever touched by this song. I listen to it many times a day and never tire of hearing it.
I see tears from those who are compassionate, I hear the music and the words of those who are compassionate and from those who love people and life. How can we not be moved to tears when we hear Andre's music and see grown people brought to tears?
Shirley...do you remember WHEN Andre said "when it touches my heart it will touch yours"?? I vaguely remember these words he said, but cannot remember when he said it. It would be a nice quote to place under a framed picture of Andre. And it can be applied to his music and well as a forever reminder of his compassion.
No Marlene, I don't remember when or where I read that comment, but I wrote it down because it sounded so true. One other comment of his , I believe in the KC PBS magazine was ""you bring your heart & I will bring mine".I like them both because I believe he does put his heart into his music.
Yes, that one is beautiful too! He does have a way with words, and music.
I do agree, the most touching song it is, makes me cry every time I hear it. Andre touches a lots of Hearts with this, all over the World. Kati
I would have loved to have seen the NYRC concert. I know it would be hard to feel that moment you are talking about Sally...but I can just imagine what it would be like. If and when we are able to see this dvd, then maybe I can feel what you felt Sally, or at least come close.
Have you noticed, Andre has added the video LOST HEROES to his website!
Yes, I noticed! It was great to see it again
He does remember Sept.11th Everybody does, He put up the most beautiful song, to remember! I like it, it was very nice of Him, try to be so nice to Americans. Kati
Yes, and he says Holland will always be grateful to the Americans for their help during the war, and now, here the song is also appropriate for 9-11. I'm sure ,as sally says, he was very emotional as he stood at the site in NY.He is a man of compassion.
If only were other people with a Heart of Gold, like Andre does.He really means what He says. His whole life is kindness, good heart, He is ONE OF A KIND in my book. There are opther great entertaniners, do a lots of good, Andre tops them all. This is why He should be the person of the year. Keep voting! Kati
Hi everyone! What beautiful tributes to our heroes of 9/11!! I have been watching the video "Lost Heroes" all week with tears streaming down my face. What a wonderful tribute from our beloved Andre. I cannot put into words what I have been feeling about that tragic day. I only know that what happened has brought all people closer together and that is something our enemies cannot take from us.
I too cannot tell you how much Andre and his music has brought to my life. Since I had to leave my beloved State of Florida where I lived, I have been so depressed and have desired to go back. My husband and I are working on it and in the meantime I have my beautiful Andre concerts to watch. Music is deep in my heart and soul and so is the one who brings it to me. We both watch the concerts and are looking forward to the concert in Miami. Thank you for all your tributes and may you be blessed.
Hello Dear Ladies (and gentlemen),
I got this sent to my e-mail, it's heart-breaking but I hope you'll like it:
We must never forget who gets the credit for the freedoms we have, for which we should be eternally grateful.
I watched the flag pass by one day,
It fluttered in the breeze.
A young Marine saluted it,
And then he stood at ease.
I looked at him in uniform
So young, so tall, so proud,
With hair cut square and eyes alert
He'd stand out in any crowd.
I thought how many men like him
Had fallen through the years.
How many died on foreign soil
How many mother's tears?
How many pilots' planes shot down?
How many died at sea
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?
No, freedom isn't free.
I heard the sound of Taps one night,
When everything was still,
I listened to the buglerplay
And felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times
That "Taps" had meant "Amen".
When a flag had draped a coffin
Of a brother or a friend.
I thought of all the children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of fathers, sons and husbands
With interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Airlington
No, freedom isn't free
I would like to thank the author who wrote this...God bless you and our U.S. Army.
Sarah
Thank you Sarah, that is beautiful.
Sarah, You have a great talent, I like Your poem! I hope one day, Your name will be well known. Kati
Hello Ladies (and gentlemen),
I was just thinking about how grateful I am to have such kind "Andre Rieu" friends. I thank God that I found out about Andre and his fans. Even though I've never met any of you, it seems like we've known each other for years.
God bless you all,
Sarah
I'm a little late to be posting here...but have only just read the blog now. Having to go into my studio and work in a moment, I just wanted to agree with all of your sentiments. What was I doing on that fateful morning:
Got up early because i was planning to get my new york city consumer affairs licence at 40 broadway (about two blocks away from the towers)...suddenly i felt exhausted and laidback down and fell asleep with diane sawyer on GMA...in my sleep i heard Charlie say that a plane flew into the tower...i knew, somehow immediately it was no mistake...it was terrorism...as i continued to watch i saw the second plane fly into the second tower...i called everyone in my family to make sure they were ok. I thanked the Lord for allowing me to feel tired and not go into the city. My son's school colleagues lost fathers, and uncles. My Island lost many, many commuters, fireman and policeman, my brother-in-law lost his very best friend, a fire-fighter and New York lost part of its beautiful skyscraper, the U.S. lost its innocence in the sense of a first attack on its shores of a magnitude as such (there was the first bomb at the towers in 93)...and the world lost life as we have known it. It was a sad day...none of us will ever forget. I would like to say something really positive and neat to end this post...but all I can sincerely do is offer a prayer: Lord, watch over us all, our children, our loved ones, our friends. Lord, help us to focus on You and not ourselves. Lord, minister to all those who have lost loved ones in 9/11 and Afghanistan and Iraq. Lord give us wisdom. and Lord, lead us on every day in Your wisdom and grace. L.
Oh Lorraine,
Those words were VERY touching. Thank you for writing this...wonderful.
love,
Sarah