i remember

I still remember September 11, 2001.
I remember waking up that morning, and the first news I heard of the attack being as I walked to class.
I remember thinking it was a mistake, wondering how someone could accidentally fly into a building that large.
I remember realizing it was not a mistake.
I remember first assuming it was a private, light aircraft, and being horrified at the reality of an airliner being used as a cruise missile.
I remember seeing the video of the second attack as it happened.
I remember being sent home from classes.
I remember how quiet campus was.
I remember sitting in my dorm, trying to access news websites and failing due to the crush of traffic.
I remember CNN’s barebone webpage that they were finally able to get, and keep, online.
I remember the frustration of not owning a television set, and the horror of finally seeing videos as they made their way online.
I remember the people jumping from the Towers.
I remember phone lines being clogged for hours, even in Atlanta.
I remember finally being able to reach my parents.
I remember checking on friends, some of whom I had not spoken to in years.
I remember news of the Pentagon attack, and of Flight 93.
I remember wondering what was next, and thinking the Bank of America Plaza was distinctive enough to make a good target.
I remember the airlines being grounded.
I remember the body count rising, and rising, and rising.
I remember the first time I saw a finalized list of the murdered.
I remember when I first read the writings of an apologist, saying America deserved it.
I remember the utter disgust I felt, and still feel, over someone being so despicably and willfully stupid.
I remember videos and pictures of Muslims dancing in the streets in celebration.
I remember all of the worthless conspiracy theories, and how idiotic the people were who presented, and still support, them.
I remember the flag draped over the side of the Pentagon.
I remember the flag at the top of the rubble pile, all that was left of the World Trade Center.
I remember the unmatched bravery and self-sacrifice of the firemen and policemen in New York City and Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania.
I remember the plaque I saw in a New York City fire station, a year after the attack.
I remember thinking how massive it was, and how very small the font was.
I remember talking with a woman I knew at church whose best friend was killed at the Pentagon.
I remember speaking with families in New Jersey, and how none of them were untouched by the attacks.
I remember how strange it was when I heard the first aircraft go overhead after the attacks.
I remember armed soldiers at the airports.
I remember how different the skyline of New York City looks without the Twin Towers.
I remember seeing the holes, first hand, and being appalled at how large they were.
I remember the American spirit, which, despite all of the childish naysayers and ostriches, still runs true.
I remember who is responsible for these attacks.
I remember all this, and so much more.
I remember.

And I will never forget.