Remember

You know, I originally wrote a VERY long and detailed comment here, and then decided to delete most of it. It was quite frankly making me very sad, and I don't think that would help matters much these days.

All I know.....is that my heart still breaks and my eyes well with tears every time I catch a glimpse of the Manhattan skyline. A chill creeps up my spine when I hear the roar of an airplane overhead. When I step onto a New York City street from a bus station or subway stop, my breath catches in my throat. When I look up and see a sunny September morning like that one 4 years ago, I become numb for a moment. Part of my anxiety over this new job stems from the fact that I will pass by that place every day on my way to work, and back home again.

I didn't set foot across the Hudson for nearly several months after it happened. When I did, and finally went down to the site, I couldn't speak. I bought a pin from a street vendor. I watched the cranes clear sections of steel away. I peered into an abandoned storefront, and then bent down and gathered up some ash and stone still present there. It's kept in the silver vessel you see in this picture.

I can close my eyes and relive the entire experience. I witnessed all of it from an office window in Northern New Jersey. For days following, I sat glued to the television and radio like most of the world. I received no sleep, and that which I did was wrought with nightmares. I remember the horrible smell of burning in the air that lingered for weeks. Living 10 miles from Newark International Airport, the eerie silence of a sky devoid of commercial jets seemed utterly surreal. American flags lined every street, and hung from every highway overpass. Strangers were actually civil to one another. Every nation was our friend.

It's alarming what has become of this country and its administration since that incredible day. I will keep those opinions to myself, however. My love goes out to those that must live the rest of their lives without a parent, a sibling, a child, or a friend. Never take anything or anyone for granted. And never forget.

"If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other." - Mother Teresa
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If you can, please make a contribution towards the disaster relief
efforts in New Orleans by donating to the American Red Cross.

ALSO - To bid on a signed (by myself and Jolene) 10x8 photographic print of my image entitled "Clash Of The Titans" for the Flickr Katrina Relief Auction, click HERE. All proceeds go to the above charity. My talented friend seanhfoto has started the bidding. Now, show him what you can do now.
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As a way of returning the extraordinary generosity and support you
have all shown me in this great community, whenever I upload a new
pic or series of shots this year, I'll provide a link to another flickr
photog whose work, personality, or spirit I feel you should discover.

Visit and introduce yourself. Make a friend. Share the love.

Open your eyes to anomalousNYC today.