09/11/2026
We purchased this photograph shortly after 9/11 at a fundraiser in New York City. It has stayed with us all these years, and every September 11th it reminds me of the courage, compassion and humanity we witnessed during one of our nation’s darkest times.
Today I remember all those who lost their lives, the first responders who ran toward danger, and the families who have lived every day since without someone they loved—a child, parent, husband, wife, son, daughter, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or dear friend.
I also remember how we treated one another afterward. People were more humble. Strangers held doors for each other. We spoke to one another. We checked on our neighbors. For a time, our differences seemed smaller because we remembered that we were one nation and one people.
Twenty-five years later, it saddens me to see how divided we have become. We may not agree on everything, but we are still the United States of America. I pray we can find our way back to more kindness, respect, compassion and unity not because tragedy forces us to, but because it is simply the way we should treat one another.
May we never forget those we lost, the families who still carry that loss, and the heroes who showed us the very best of humanity. 🇺🇸🙏
