Remembering 9/11 by @lollaDAD

After graduating from college in 2001, I moved to New York City to find a job in finance.  I was so happy to find a cozy little apartment right in front of City Hall, just a few blocks away from the World Trade Center and Wall Street.  Even though the economy was struggling, I was determined to find a job.

On the morning of September 11, 2001 I was just getting out of bed when my building shook violently.  You can imagine the commotion and chaos that ensued just moments after the first plane hit.  I vividly remember running down 11 flights to see the horror of folks jumping from windows, the second plane hitting the south tower, and running toward Brooklyn Bridge to escape the tidal wave of soot that engulfed the entire downtown area.

I remember feeling that my life would soon be over.  I remember thinking of my parents, my sisters, my girlfriend (now lollaMOM), and everyone that I loved and would miss.  After getting through the day, I cried everyday for several weeks every time I thought of all the victims, their families, and the heroes who risked it all.  Needless to say, I would never be the same.  Every time I think that I've come to grips with what happened that day, the feeling of deep pain rushes back when I watch the news.

Now that I am a parent, I am trying my best to replace that sorrow with gratitude and a thankful heart.  I am thankful to be alive, thankful to have people who risk their lives for mine, and eternally thankful to have such a wonderful loving family.  This morning I kissed lollaMOM during breakfast and the girls squealed with joy.   I cherished every second while dropping my girls off at their pre-school and hugged them at least 3 times before leaving the playground.  There is no better therapy than a good solid hug from someone you love.  Even though I am doing my best to move on, I will never forget.