Member Topic: How 9/11 affected our generation

As a 16-year-old, I was just beginning to come into my own as a young teenager when the tragic events of September 11, 2001, unfolded before my eyes. That day, I remember sitting in my high school history class when the news broke of a plane hitting the World Trade Center. At first, we thought it was an accident, but as the details emerged, it became clear that this was an intentional act of terror.

I was preoccupied with my teenage concerns, but the reality of the sinister attacks hit me hard. I was shocked to the very core of my being. And I realized most people around me felt the same way. The world had become a dangerous place, a place where anything bad could happen. We were all witness to the most developed country in the world falling prey to a mastermind attack from a terror group in Afghanistan. The bloodbath that ensued…will remain etched in the collective unconscious for ages.

My younger sister, who was barely 12 at the time, composed a poem which danced with angst. I still remember it vividly – it said ‘terrorists on the kitchen floor’ as if terror was a way of life we just had to accept. Taken aback at the way terror had seeped into our minds, I wanted to start journaling or noting down my myriad feelings.

I found solace in writing down my thoughts, fears, and emotions on paper. It helped me make sense of the senseless violence that had taken place and provided me with an outlet to express my sorrow, anger, and confusion.

As the days and weeks passed, the shock slowly wore off, but the memory of that day and its aftermath lingered on. It was a turning point for my generation, a moment when we were forced to confront the harsh reality of the world we live in. It made me realize that we can never take our safety and security for granted and that we must always remain vigilant.

Years later, as I reflect on that fateful day, I am reminded of the bravery and resilience of the human spirit. I am inspired by the countless acts of heroism and selflessness that emerged in the face of tragedy. And I am grateful for the lessons learned and the strength gained from enduring such a profound and life-changing experience.

How did 9/11 affect you?

I was 10. An I went to a school where I was like the only one who looked as I did. So it was weird for some time. 

I was 10 years old and I didn't understand things very well but I remember my parents were very nervous and afraid also screamed it was like a personal attack for them.

I was 19. I grew up in Bombay and lived there through the riots and bomb blasts. I had felt human cruelty and extreme loss that hit so close to home. It took me a while to register the gravity and impact of the attacks. I still feel a lot more empathy for New Yorkers and those who actually experienced the violence and loss than those who live in bumblefcuk nowhere but played the bigger victim. 

Post-9/11 events changed me the most. Living in a liberal anti-war protest town made me see so many things through a lens I had never before. My views over so many things became liberalized in that experience. 

Now the concern is possibility of nuclear explosion in 2023. Yesterday I was reading an article about what to do if nuclear explosion happens near your place.

About attacks on twin towers in USA, I saw a few videos on YouTube how some people who were in the towers at the time of attack were making last phone calls to their loved ones. 

We have been told in our religion class about future, prophet did like what 70+ or more prophecy (just the minor signs)... I used to think in my class, how will it happen, or it will not happen in my life time.. Then bang.. I am living in almost all prophecy has been fulfilled...