Only ten years ago – a lifetime, really – two planes crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City and  changed the lives of everyone who lived there. The events of September 11, 2001 have had a profound effect upon the United States and by extension, world events. But I will always remember the effect that day had on my fellow New Yorkers. Some of us had great personal sacrifices to endure, others were affected in less heartbreaking ways. But we were all changed by the day.

When the Dutch built a fort in New Amsterdam, they chose the southern tip of what is now Manhattan for it’s strategic location, easily defended. We who live in Manhattan have always felt that same feeling of safety and protection on our little island. Even now, some criticize Mayor Bloomberg for having been overly cautious with safety measures during Hurricane Irene. We have faith that our tall buildings and iron fortresses can’t be breached.

But on that beautiful sunny morning in September, our confidence in our city was shattered. The twin towers – those landmarks by which every lost New Yorker could orient themselves – had fallen, and with them, our spirit. But I am proud of my city and how she has fought her way back. I can’t wait to see the completion of the new tower at the trade center site that will reach up to the sky with hope and confidence. And I also look forward to visit the memorial to the fallen and take a moment to remember all those beautiful people we lost that day.

The drawing above was made the morning of September 11th, 2001, on lower Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. My fellow New Yorkers trying to believe what their eyes and ears were telling them.

Posted by Veronica Lawlor.

Visit September 11th Words and Pictures to purchase the memorial book of drawings from 9/11. A portion of the proceeds is donated to the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation in honor of Carl Bedigian.