I think so much of my innocence was lost on September 11th.
I've written about how 9/11 affected my family so closely and how my father's life could have been lost, here.
Because of 9/11:
I don't feel my childhood lasted as long as it could have
I still get a tender lump in my throat when I think about our incredible President George W. Bush and his speech a top rubble.
I get nervous in tall buildings
I say "I love you" to every family and friend before they walk out the door or hang up the phone
I don't believe anything is truly permanent or guaranteed
Life just seems divided into that before and after
I love this country more than I could imagine
I am proud of my family members who have served proudly in the military
I continue to fiercely believe in the American dream
I live my faith proudly
