by JavaQueen2000

Created on: January 27, 2009

911-

When we see 911 we now think of the Twin Towers and the events that changed our lives. Before that horrific day 911 was a plea for help.

I drove into work listening to my favorite morning radio show. The interrupted news broad cast made my heart race. The description of the first plan crashing into the tower brought tears to my eyes. I could feel the heart ache and pain in the familiar voices. Pulling into the parking lot, I thought of my students. How do you explain the tragic events that are unfolding?

The halls are filled with silent students holding each other. The images on the TV splash across our hearts. I hear a scream as Katie falls to the floor in agonizing terror. I race to her and grab her shoulders she sobs and says "My father is coming home today. He's in Boston. They said the plane was hijacked from Boston." Fear enters my body. I feel her pain. Her father is dead. Students are gathering around her. Reassurance is voiced from many.

"There are hundreds of flights from Boston, He probably on another flight."

"It's OK, He'll be OK." N

"Have faith, God will take care of you."

All of the voices are ringing in my head. What Do I Say?

Katie let's call your mom. The call was brief and Katie seemed to calm down. Our eyes are glued to the television as we watch the second plane hit the second tower. Again, voices are echoing around me. Terrorism at its worst has entered our souls. I teach History and English. How can I use this to aid in their development of a tragedy that never should have happened?

Cory grabs my arm and tells me that the Pentagon has been hit as well. Tears well up in her eyes. "I can't get a hold of my mom."

"That's OK. People are calling everyone they know. I am sure the lines are busy."

"Miss. Lisa, My mom is giving a presentation at the Pentagon for Raytheon."

Again, Fear enters my soul. I now have two students who could be directly affected by this event. I contact our principle and update her on my two students. What are the odds, I think, that one student would be effected, let alone two. I calmly walk to the television and tell my students we need to get to class. Slowly they abide. My room is silent and I feel the uncertainty in them. The questions slowly come.

Who did this?

Why is this happening?

How could they take over four planes?

We get the news that another plane crashed in Pennsylvania. There are no more questions only silence. I watch as I see my once vibrant vocal class fall apart. Some are holding hands. I watch as they begin

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