For my friend Edie Lutnick, and for all of us, here is how I am remembering:
Today, I will put my hand on my heart and know the loss and healing that connects us all.
Today, I will pause in silence and hear your comforting words and the harmony of the world’s finest voices rising above the haunting echoes.
Today, I will see the people around me—truly see each coworker and friend—the color of their eyes, the way they smile or can’t smile, the familiarity of each beautiful face as it adds a new focus to my day for one special moment.
Today, I will hold my family close and feel your hugs and the strength and softness we share in memory of those we can hold only in our hearts.
Today, I will speak of this anniversary—mostly in present tense —of those who mark it moment by moment, day by day. I will tell the stories behind the statistics—of the sisters, mothers, sons, husbands, daughters, wives, brothers and fathers who honor those taken on this day by over and over taking the small, courageous steps that bring them through another year—whole and strong enough to hear their loved one’s name read aloud one more time.
Today, I will breathe deeply, lift my face to the sky and let the wind and sun remind me that I never walk alone.
Today, and always, I will remember.
(Originally published on September 11, 2008 and given to each family member attending the Cantor Fitzgerald memorial service.)
For my related “Rooted In Rangeley” posts, see:
- Remembering in Rangeley
- 9/11/11: A time to share Edie’s story
- Remembering 9/11
- Come and Meet Those Dancin’ Feet (a 3-part series)
For more about Edie and how she continues to help turn tragedy into hope, see:
- An Unbroken Bond
- Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund (Since Sept. 14, 2001, this fund has raised and distributed approximately $280 million to 9/11 families and other victims of terrorism, natural disasters and emergencies, direct service charities, and wounded members of our military.)
- Out of the Clear Blue Sky (documentary)
Rooted In Rangeley 