I was just shy of my 4th birthday when the attacks against the World Trade Center occurred on September 11, 2001. I don't remember anything from that day because I was so young, but it still affects me. As I grew older, the events that took place on that day baffled my mind. When I traveled to New York City and visited the memorial it broke my heart. Hearing all of the stories from so many people in regards to their memories from that day, or from their family members who witnessed the horrific events first hand never fail to amaze me in their own chilling way. What I most commonly hear from people, who are scarred with the remembrance of that day as if it was yesterday, is the after affect it had on all the American people. It's said that after the cruel events that day everyone in America was quiet, silent, and peaceful. There was this over whelming sense of patriotism that came across America that had never happened before. Everyone came together in the silence that followed. Now, the day is one we remember somberly. I do struggle with one thing though besides the obvious amount of devastation America experienced that day. Why did such an act of evil have to occur for America to finally pull together and forget about their differences? And how did they forget about the strong bond that formed after the attacks? In order to appear as a strong country America first has to have a strong bond within their own country. In order to do that their has to be mutual trust among everyone. Differences have to be put aside and everyone has to learn how to get along or at least be civil with one another. Hate crimes need stop in general, but especially on our own turf. How does America expect to display a positive image and message to all the rest of the world when it still has so many issues being debated and fought over all within it's own borders. Every country has issues. No country on this planet is perfect by any means. However, for the sake of all those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, America needs to ask its self one question; If both the innocent citizens and rescue men and women whom lost their lives were still alive today would they be pleased with America today? We have so many things to be grateful for in America, so as a country, everyone should come together and celebrate what the terrorist didn't take from us, our home and our freedom.

God Bless America.