Here we are again
mundanity overlaid with memorial
just a Friday workday
mere blocks from where it happened
my jeans are soaked
where the sky let fall its tears
Routine maintains its endless pace
though we pause today to look back.
I headed to work in miserably wet and cold weather, and the strangeness of living out my everyday in a place so central on the world stage was intensified for me as I emerged from the subway in New York's Financial District. Grey skies, grey buildings, dark cars, punctuated by a cop in neon orange poncho directing traffic. I walked east, where once others ran. I took the elevator up, where once others dashed down the stairs. And as I sat at my desk, listening to the live broadcast from the memorial service a few blocks away, I heard a tolling bell - where once the snapping, rumbling roar of a collapsing tower razed the air. September 11 in New York City. I wasn't there, and now I am.
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2 comments:
This actually gave me shivers HaQuyen. I've read other people's reactions to today, but that one amazed me. Thank you for sharing it.
I was there, and I wish I could be there every single year. Interesting that we've switched places - you're in NYC and I'm in Dayton. Never would have thought that 8 years ago.
Thanks for the reflection. It certainly helps knowing someone else feels the impact like I do.
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