It was 6th Grade and I was in Language Arts class with Mrs. Twyman. The entire day was quite dreary in a sense that I kind of knew something was wrong but nothing was said. It was 9th period when we were finally told that there were multiple attacks on the United States throughout the day. I remember being so anxious on the bus ride home so I could get to my house and talk to my old man about what was happening. I was 10 years old and couldn’t even begin to fathom that there were people out there that wanted to cause absolute terror in the minds of Americans. I must’ve asked my dad at least 10 times if this was an accident, because to me it just didn’t make any sense. I will never ever forget that day. I believe the months following the attack were what made me what I am today- a proud citizen of the United States.
Throughout my life I’ve always been drawn to hockey. No matter what situation is going on I’ve always used hockey as an outlet to just forget about everything. There is something about this sport that is so raw, so real, so incredible that I have obtained some sort of obsession throughout my 26 years. Most of my favorite sport memories have come from the months after 9/11. Every 9/11 I watch a video of George W. throwing throwing the perfect strike on the mound of Yankee Stadium, a short documentary on ‘The Man With The Red Bandana’ Welles Crowther and the bravery he showed on 9/11 and stare at a picture of Mark Messier wearing the Firemans Helmet at the Garden. I seldom get emotional, but every time September 11 comes around I am on an absolute emotional roller coaster throughout the day. If you guys get a chance, check out the links above. They are amazing and will give you goosebumps.
The current state of the US isn’t exactly great right now. I don’t know if it’s because I’m older or the fact that Twitter is an outlet for opinion, but in my opinion I’ve never seen the “United” States more divided. It’s days like today that I think everybody should be thankful. Everybody should be thankful for police officers, firemen and first responders. Days like today remind us that even though there are terrible things going on, there are tons of selfless individuals that will put themselves in harms way for others, and to me that is pretty badass. So, if you read this do me a favor today. Remember these people and never forget the people who have lost their lives on this day. Do something nice for someone today and go out of your way to do something to make someone’s day just a little bit better. With all the turmoil and separation going on right now, there’s no better time to become United.
The Morning Skate 