Teach The Children Well
Here’s a fact that is hard to believe. We are marking Patriot Day 2024. It’s been 23 years since that horrible attack on our country, September 11, 2001. 
Hi. I’m Zulah Talmadge, Editor of The Shady Pines Gazette.
No one who experienced the events on that bright, clear September day nearly a quarter of a century ago, can shake the memories or unsee the images. 
But there are many young people and children who weren’t around back then.
They need to know the importance of THAT day.
We must explain the horror of seeing the twin towers of the World Trade Center in downtown New York City reduced to ash. Other places were attacked too.
Planes were hijacked by bad men and flown into their targets. So many innocent people just going about their daily lives never made it home.
Never Forget
All of us should pause on this date every year and say, “Never Forget.” We do this to honor the thousands of lives lost that day and in the days that followed.
I’d never known an act of terrorism like that before.
Just like so many folks around Shady Pines Story Town, I watched with disbelief as news of the tragedy flickered on TV. I was here in the Gazette office. Years later, I tried to explain to Scoop, the Cup Reporter what it was like to witness this horrible reality as it unfolded.
More Than a Bad Movie
It seemed like a bad movie. It couldn’t be real.
First, there was shock. No one could believe that our country was being attacked in this way. 
And then we saw so many brave policemen, firemen, and other first responders race in to help others. Many didn’t come back alive. It was all too much to bear.
I’m sure it’s hard for anyone who did not live through that day to understand the full scope of the emotions we felt.
None of us at the time could know the impact it had not only on our country, but on our individual lives.
We would never feel as safe again.
As you try to explain 9/11 to your child or any child, here are two truths to be learned from that day. These are lessons that go beyond the news reports, textbooks, or facts associated with this tragedy.
America Is Strong
A remarkable reaction on 9-11 was the unity, compassion, and strength that flowed through our country. Strangers cried together, held hands, ran to help each other, stood in lines to donate blood, and rallied together.
It was an inspiring bond we shared through our tears.
As deep and painful as our wounds were, a sense of brotherhood swept over our nation in a way many of us may have never before seen in our lifetime. Above the black smoke and rubble, America still stood as a country – held together by the spirit of our people.
Heroism Lives Within Us
In the days and weeks following September 11th, we heard countless stories of the heroes who went above and beyond. Emergency personnel and first responders ran into buildings when everyone else was running out. Co-workers turned around back into the smoke to save someone they heard calling for help.
The thing is, these people woke up that morning just like the rest of us. They did not know what was to be asked of them in the next couple of hours. 
But, when it came time, they got up the courage needed and answered the call.
Kids Will Want to Know
As a reporter, when I talk to children about 9-11, I do my best to ease any fears or worries they have. One of our teachers has them draw a picture or write a letter. By doing that, kids express their thoughts and emotions after learning about this tragic yet courageous day.
To the innocent mind of a child, it may be difficult for them to really understand the importance of Patriot Day.
That’s OK. What they can learn, is that we live in a country that turned fear into bravery, and vulnerability into strength. They should realize that, just like the heroes of 9/11, being a citizen and a friend means helping those around you.
Here in Shady Pines Story Town we always encourage children to help out where they can, be a kind neighbor and classmate, and be aware and concerned when they see a friend in need.
Always Remember
If you live near any of the September 11th memorials like the one in New York City, Patriot Day is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of hands-on learning.
Children will be able to witness firsthand or on the internet, the tributes to the victims and heroes. The legacy of these brave men and women live on in these memorials and in museums.
This year politics and division may seem to dominate our headlines and our lives.
It wasn’t always that way. Let’s remind ourselves, and the children, of an important time in American history when we were united.
That’s what our Kindness and Caring Campaign is all about.
***Please Support Us By Leaving a Comment Below***
– Zulah out!
I’ve been travelling and am now catching up on my emails when I saw this post. Thank you for reminding us that 9-11 was a generational event. Not only should we Never Forget, but we must not let our children forget either.
The best presentation of Americas
worst day Yet you worded that days event so all of us, young & old,
can understand and feel Excellent
I hope all of Shady Pines , young
ones in particular, read these words. America 🇺🇸 forever
That was so touching Jane. Thank you!
Wonderful reminders to us all, Mary Jane. Adults as well as children. Love your articles taking everyday/holiday/eventful days we need to honor or celebrate. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you Linda. Really appreciate that!
Just catching up on my mail. As others, we have our own memories and stories. We are honored to have one of those heroic firefighters in our neighborhood.
Indeed we are. Thank you for pointing that out!
I will never forget that day. We do need to tell our children and grandchildren to remember
Such an important time in our nation’s history and such an emotional one too. You captured both with this post
Poignant and timely! Well said. May we never forget . . . nor be subject to another event like 9/11 to remind us how precious is our freedom.
Very well said. Thank you for your comment Candy!
Very well said.
Such a horrible day. So many heroes. 23 years ago – I remember it like it was yesterday.
And you’re right – we can never forget – we have to remember and make sure our children know about it as well.
Thank you for saying that Frank!
I was watching the ceremony in NYC. Your post really captured the emotional impact that day had on us all. Well done!
Thank you Jim!
I remember 9-11 like it was yesterday. Devastating. Thank you for this very thoughtful post. It made me emotional
Those are two good lessons . We must never forget and we need to tell the kids
This was really good
I remember how we all came together that day, and not just in the US. Most countries supported us through this tragic event and someone even said “we’re all American today.” If only we could get past the toxic divisions we’re facing now! Thanks for this heartfelt and important post.
Thank you Sheri for the kind comment
This was a tough subject to explain to young children and young adults who weren’t born 23 years ago. I remember that day like it was yesterday and it brought tears to my eyes. That was the first time I was alive to witness the way we all united as one country. Another great and timely article we can all benefit from. Thank you.
Barbara thank you so much for that amazing comment!
I remember trying to explain that day to my then 5-year old son, which wasn’t easy. It was definitely one of those you-recall-where-you-were events. Thanks for a wonderful post on such a sensitive subject. Future children do need to understand what happened 23 years ago.
Oh Jerry. Thank you. I’m sure Evan benefitted from your efforts!
I nearly cried reading this post. It all came flooding back. Good angle to remind us that we need our children and grandchildren to remember. Great lessons
This really brought it all back for me. Good message about making sure following generations Never Forget
It’s hard to believe it’s been 23 years since that tragic day. Your message is a wonderful reminder that “United We Stand , Divided We Fall”.
Well said Teresa. Thank you for your comment!
Hoping the courage and compassion shown by so many on that day will continue to inspire us as a nation. Never forget.
Well said Tammy. Thank you for your comment
With the election coming up and the debate last night I’m very emotional about the direction of our country. This post was such a timely reminder that we can and must do better
Probably your best post yet – hopefully the memories of that day can rise above the division of our current day to remind us that United We Stand and Divided we will eventually fall!
Such a good point Joanne and thank you!
Really well done. I got choked up reading this. Important message
After watching the debate last night somehow this really hits home this morning