Fifteen years ago, the lives of many people took a big turn. We lost loved ones, and we saw the ones we care about go through an indescribable amount of grief over losing someone important. There was panic for those trying to contact loved ones. Confusion and apprehension filled the air, as people prayed for a miracle—a sign they were safe. There was relief when some found out that their loved ones happen to not go into work that day. Regardless of how it impacted each one of us, on this day, we all grieved together. There was an unspoken, overwhelming amount of emotions that we felt together in the nation.

It may have been fifteen years ago, but the impact that this day had on each one of us remains in our lives. It has left an impact for those who survived, for those who had unfortunately lost their loved ones, and for those who were so young, but old enough to feel the panic in the atmosphere.

I came across a letter that went viral from a survivor of 9/11.

Adam Maylbum wrote a letter recalling the events of this day, and one part of the letter made me feel angry. It was not that I was angry at him, but angry at how these immorale people who planned this tragic event to occur had the power of even making a survivor to feel guilty.

With regards to the firemen heading upstairs, I realize that they were going up anyway. But, it hurts to know that I may have made them move quicker to find my friend. Rationally, I know this is not true and that I am not the responsible one. The responsible ones are in hiding somewhere on this planet and damn them for making me feel like this.

Adam felt guilty for not sending the firemen quicker to find his friend. He felt guilty that he was not quick enough, even though he didn't do anything wrong. He tried his best in getting himself out, along with the people around him. It made me angry that he felt like he was responsible for this, and it made me question whether other survivors out there felt the same way. For any survivor out there, do not give the power of these people who brought this upon us in making you feel guilty. You all are the heroes of that day.

For those families who continue to remember this day from losing a loved one, you all are heroes as well. We could not imagine what you all feel, but what we all can do together as a nation is be the support that you need. We are all in this together, we are all fighting this battle together.

September 11th was not just a day of reminder of the evil and immorale in this world, but also a reminder of how short life can be. Innocent people die under unreasonable circumstances, and what kills even more is the unexpected. Life is short, filled with many surprises. We are easily drowning in our busy life, whether it is with school or work. Time flies within this time, but never forget to always give the time of day to your loved ones. It may be easy to forget in the moment, until you realize that you no longer have that chance.

Fifteen years later, today, we remember this day like it was just yesterday. For those who have survived from this experience, you are a hero. For those who lost their loved ones, you are a hero too. For those whose lives were sacrificed, you are all remembered and in our hearts as our heroes in heaven.

Today the images that people around the world equate with power and democracy are gone but “America” is not an image it is a concept. That concept is only strengthened by our pulling together as a team. If you want to kill us, leave us alone because we will do it by ourselves. If you want to make us stronger, attack and we unite.

Everyone was a hero that day. We all stood together and united, and today, we stand together for this day of remembrance.