(can't seem to get clipsmarks to work on this. click the link.)

I remember exactly where I was and when the realization that this was not an errant airliner swept over me. It helps me to be reminded because, since we lived so far away, it was like a movie. I remember Congress, standing on it's step, all holding hands and singing "God Bless America".

This was one of those defining moments for me too jatfla. It was about four in the afternoon when a friend phoned and yelled, "Turn on your TV" - which I did. It was shortly after the first plane crashed into the WTC. At first I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I thought it had to be a disaster movie that was showing because at first I couldn't quite grasp the reality of what was happening. That soon became very apparent. And then the second tower was struck and we sat stunned in horror. And then came the collapse of the first tower, and then the second. Dear God, it was like a vision of hell. All I did was watch, cry and pray, pray, pray. It's indelibly burned into my memory.

I was at work, at Enron.

I almost lost a cousin that day. She was scheduled for a meeting in one of the Twin Towers that morning, but it got canceled.

I was at a Bible Study and we had a lady whose husband had just flown out that morning for the Pentagon. A very scary day; no one knew what was coming next.

Here's another close call. A military member I had worked with previously was stationed at Andrews AFB; her military husband was stationed at the Pentagon. They were on the phone talking about the first plane when the phone went dead. Turns out he was located about 50 yards from where the plane hit the Pentagon. It was hours before she found out he was safe and OK.

I will never forget that day, as I know many of you won't.

I made a decision to change my life that day (for the better) and leave behind some habits that, to my great shame, would have rendered me practically useless in being of any real help to anyone had it happened in Toronto (where i was living at the time).
I remember being so overwhelmed at the courage, bravery and tireless work by the firemen, police and ordinary folks. I still love reading the stories of the many many heros that day...reminds me to be so grateful for the beautiful life I have.

Antara....that's wonderful.