Writing Resources from Fifteen Minutes of Fiction

The Day the Terrorists Lost

September 11, 2001, a day that I as well as most of the country will never forget. I was standing in the small office of a customer, waiting to collect and as we chatted, the interruption of the show being broadcast on his tiny TV caught both of our attention. The images, so terrifying and yet fascinating in a surreal way had a permanent effect on me. I had a job to do and I needed to be on my way but I couldn't pull myself away from the carnage displayed before me. Then the facts started coming in, it was not some strange accident but a deliberate act of terrorism and the news kept getting worse.

To the terrorists I say you may have achieved your goals that day but your goals did not achieve your desired result. My mind, as did most of the country went from confusion, to horror to anger and that anger was directed to a people who have no concern for human life. That act did not divide us in fact it did more to unite us in a common bond than I thought possible. New York City is known for its unfriendly citizens, people who would step around a person lying on the sidewalk rather than help them. To see that great city come together that fateful day made my heart soar as neighbors who didn't even speak to each other before were now working together to help those in need.

There were many heroes whose bravery we saluted and yet there were many more who remained unnamed and unknown. These people were not looking for fame; they just felt a desire to help in a time of need. As we bow our heads to those we lost, we also raise our hands in a salute to those brave people. To the terrorists who claim victory for the deeds they did, I say nay, you did not win, for your acts solidified a mighty country against you.

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