Well, it's early morning on September 11th here on the East coast.

On this first anniversary of the most recent terrorist attacks launched agains America, I believe reflection is in order.

The past year has been, to say the least, difficult. Time has seemed to move both slower and faster at once.

America has changed forever. The tragedy of September 11th has spawned a new era in America.

As I remember the innocent people whose lives were taken in Pennsylvania, Washington, and New York, I can't help but remember the chaotic days immediately following September 11th.

Our Nation grew stronger. We all collectively held our breath hoping that the attack had actually ended. Our Flag flew high and proud across the country. Patriotism's rebirth had begun.

This confusing time may very well have been our finest hour. We pulled together as one; our spirit could not and can not be broken.

God Bless America!

Mike

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Oh, say can you see, by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

I write at the eve of September 11th. The President has just finished addressing the nation.

The strongest impression September 11th left on me is our vulnerablity. Not just to terrorists or human enemies, but to all forces of nature. I understand a little better how fragile life is. I understand that our time here is short and our ability to love every last minute of it is the most beautiful part of our freedom.

I am so grateful that nothing happened today on a day that no one will ever forget. Watching TV today brought goose bumps all over again. This Country I think will never forget and has never been stronger. God Bless America!