Today is September 11th, a day that we pause to remember the 2,977 innocent lives lost and the sheer horror of that terrible day. We honor those who perished across the three tragic sites: 2,753 in New York at the World Trade Center, 184 at the Pentagon, and 40 passengers and crew members aboard United Flight 93, which crashed in Pennsylvania. These individuals—parents, siblings, children, friends—had their lives cut short, and the countless others who were left behind still carry the weight of that day.
I’ve shared my memories of that day in previous writings,where I described waking up and starting what seemed like an ordinary day. The sky was clear and beautiful, and everything felt normal as I made my way through the city. Then, in an instant, everything changed. The chaos unfolded so quickly that it was hard to grasp what was happening. Shock and disbelief clouded my thoughts as I struggled to process the unimaginable.
Fifteen years later, when I visited New York to mark the anniversary of the attacks, one place hit me harder than I expected—Century 21, the department store just across from the World Trade Center. Before H&M became the go-to spot for cheap, disposable clothing, Century 21 was where I shopped for essentials like socks and belts. When I saw it again in 2016, I was struck by how normal life had seemed before that day. People started their Tuesday routines just as they had the day before—maybe stopping by Century 21 before work or planning to visit after. Many never got the chance to finish their day. They never made it home. I reflected on these emotions in my blog that year, as the weight of that visit brought everything rushing back.
The memories of that day come back vividly—like the sight of the South Tower leaning menacingly toward the Millennium Hotel, where I had lived for several weeks just a month earlier. The fact that the hotel wasn’t completely destroyed is amazing. It reopened almost two years later, but for me, it held a special significance because my dad had visited me there in August 2001. On the day of the attacks, he was probably the most anxious person waiting to hear that I was safe, knowing exactly how close I lived and worked to the World Trade Center.
But today, as we reflect on that tragedy, I also want to turn my attention toward the future. How do we ensure that the hate and division that fueled those events don’t define the world we live in now or the world we leave for future generations?
I vividly remember walking across the bridge to Brooklyn with a man I didn’t know. We likely had very different political views, but none of that mattered in the face of such a catastrophe. We were simply two people trying to find safety, both witnesses to a world turned upside down. In those moments, we weren’t divided by politics or ideology; we were united by our shared humanity. The anger, confusion, and sense of loss we felt were universal.
Today, our world feels increasingly divided. Politics often pit us against one another, and hate-filled rhetoric continues to stoke fear. But my hope is for a future where political beliefs don’t make us enemies, but instead encourage interesting, respectful debate. A world where families can argue over the dinner table and still hug at the end of the night. A world where politicians who spread hate and fear are rejected, not embraced by voters.
I’ve never hidden the fact that I am anti-Trump, but this isn’t about one person or one political figure. It’s about building a world where decisions are based on values, research, and respect. We may disagree, but that shouldn’t make us adversaries. We need to reject those who thrive on division and come together in thoughtful, meaningful dialogue.
As we honor those who lost their lives on September 11th, let us also commit to creating a future free from hate and division. A future where we engage with one another as fellow human beings, even when we disagree. Let’s work toward a world filled with hope, connection, and peace—where our shared humanity triumphs over our differences.
Be well. Lead on.
Adam
I’ve said this so many times it’s getting old, but some people just don’t seem to listen—and maybe, if I’m honest, I don’t always take my own advice either. Here it is: it really doesn’t matter what you said, how you said it, or what you intended. What matters, if you truly care about the other person, is how they felt.
If you’re already a dedicated “Giver” who uplifts others, a heartfelt thank you for your contributions to the circle of support. For those who frequently receive such kindness, pause and ponder: Are you also extending a helping hand to others? Remember, even the smallest gestures of encouragement or acknowledgment can have a profound impact on someone’s life. Whether it’s a simple share, a kind message, or a valuable connection, each act of giving back holds immense significance.
1. Setting and Managing Clear Expectations Setting clear expectations is crucial in any relationship, whether it’s personal or professional. Many people advocate for the approach