Some say time is supposed to heal all wounds, but it doesn't truly take the pain away. Even after 15 years, the devastating attacks on the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001 that changed our nation's security and the lives of so many is still hard to process and reflect on. Nearly a decade and a half later, the memorial site that now sits where the Twin Towers used to be has created a somber hold over Lower Manhattan in New York City.

During my trip to New York this past summer, I visited the site in person. It's difficult to put into words what it's like being on the grounds where so much tragedy unfolded. I can't even begin to describe the amount of heartache that lined those streets and was felt at the site of the new One World Trade Center building and memorial.

As I watched each passerby take everything in and explore the area, I was so aware of the grief that is still felt in the city despite its efforts to rebuild a new tower. Even after the time that has passed, it was evident neither the tourists or residents have forgotten the details of that day or what they experienced as they learned the news.

The 9/11 memorial site is made up of twin waterfalls and reflecting pools that are each in place of where the towers used to be. Engraved in the structure surrounding the falls are hundreds of names of the deceased. Each name represents a life lost. A life of someone who was just like you and me. Someone with dreams, aspirations, trials, triumphs, and loved ones. Someone who woke up that morning not knowing they would lose their life in the attack or fighting to save others.

The morning I walked the path along the memorial site fountains the sky was cloudy, dreary and rainy. I couldn't help but feel like New York City was mourning with all the visitors who came to see the site in person and pay their respects. It was almost like God was saying, "I'm still heartbroken by this too."

Amidst all the sorrows and heartache that filled the atmosphere, there were signs of life and purpose throughout the sacred park. Through the efforts of the city's rebuilding of the area, it was clear New York City was seeking to come out on the stronger side of things. As people brought flowers dedicated to those in remembrance, it brought new life and refreshing color to the setting.

A quote I once read said, "Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those lost and a way to reclaim the spirit of unity that followed." As a nation together, we fight harder; we love those around us tighter, and we salute those who sacrifice their lives for our freedom. May we never forget 9/11 and may we always be stronger because of it.