why i remember September 11, 2001 ...

I experienced that fateful day on a very personal and professional level. On September 11, 2001, I was an employee of Van Kampen Funds/Morgan Stanley. After seeing the horrific events around the country unfold live on my computer in our Oak Brook office, it was my job as the designated floor warden to conduct a safety sweep of our floor to ensure that all employees had safely left for home.  A mandatory building evacuation had been issued from our home office in New York immediately after the World Trade Center attacks fearing the possibility of further retribution on related financial, military and government buildings.

As I opened each office door, my mind recycled and replayed the images I had just seen on my computer screen.  As I checked under each desk of every office and cubicle on my floor, I prayed for the safety of all those impacted in New York, Washington DC and Shanksville, PA. 

In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, I was struck by the amazing resilience of the American people, first responders and the business community at-large. The overwhelming outpouring of fellowship and ‘community’ exhibited by all was nothing short of remarkable. I carried that newfound sense of fellowship, community, and perseverance into the next few years at Morgan Stanley and subsequently, into the next chapter of my life and the opening of my own business.  

Each year, I endeavor to remember September.  I sincerely hope that each and every one of you find the strength and courage to do the same not only on the anniversary of 9/11, but the remaining 364-days of each and every year that follows.

God bless you and your family.