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"Nothing you do for a child is ever wasted"
- Garrison Keillor
Prairie Home Companion
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News: Read the Winning Essays!
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02/05/03
AMERICA: STRONGER AFTER SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
Winners of Essay Contest – Announced December 10, 2002
| High School: |
| 1st place |
Yelena Ten |
11th grade |
Timberland High School |
| 2nd place |
Katie Orvin |
12th grade |
Timberland High School |
| 3rd place |
Amy Ballew |
9th grade |
Berkeley High School |
| Middle School: |
| 1st place |
Sarah Cardwell |
8th grade |
Hanahan Middle School |
| 2nd place |
Katie Hohorst |
8th grade |
College Park Middle School |
| 3rd place |
Shanna Richen |
6th grade |
Sedgefield Middle School |
| Elementary School: |
| 1st place |
Ahja Glaze |
4th grade |
St. Stephen Elementary School |
| 2nd place |
Chelsea Williams |
5th grade |
Whitesville Elementary School |
| 3rd place |
Dachia White |
4th grade |
Boulder Bluff Elementary |
America Since 9/11
Written by Ahja Glaze
September 29, 2002
Grade 4, St. Stephen Elementary School
September 11th was a day of mixed emotions. I was scared because I did not know when or where the next attack was going to happen. I was worried because I was at school and not with my family.
I was sad for those who lost their lives. I was angry because someone did such a terrible thing. The day seemed so long. The majority of the television stations showed pictures of the attack. The pictures showed the plane going into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. It even showed people running for their lives and jumping out of windows of the World Trade Center. There were pictures of people in other countries cheering and celebrating for what happened to the United States. That made me angry. It made me angry because the United States was suffering and other counties were happy. That was a time of sadness.
Because of the tragedy of 9/11 America has grown closer and stronger. People who didn't like others because of their race risked their lives for others. The New York firefighters became heroes. I think people respect them more.
I am sad for all the children whose parents went to work that morning who will never come back.
Before I engage in an argument with others I'll think twice because I may not be here to make up. I am afraid to go in buildings over thirty - stories. I think people are closer. Even if they are black, white, Jewish, Catholic or Muslim. People are more patriotic. They have flags on their cars and their homes.
Even though this horrible tragedy has brought Americans closer, we still have a lot of work to do.
America: Stronger Since September the 11th
Written by Chelsea Williams
October 2, 2002
Grade 5, Whitesville Elementary School
September the 11th was a horrible day. But since this has happened America has become stronger.
Many people donated blood so that they could help someone in need of it. So many people donated blood that they had no more room to store it. So they ended up throwing some away.
Since September the 11th some people were donating food. The food went to people who got hurt and needed it. People felt good when they did this because they were helping others.
And also people have been giving money. Some of the money probably went to the hospitals so they can get more beds and things. The nurses could also buy food with that money.
Since September the 11th America has become stronger. People are remembering the horrible tragedy that happened on that day. Thousands of people lost their lives and many lost their loved ones. So now everyone is trying to unite and help each other. And that is what is making America stronger.
A Stronger America
Written by Dachia White
September 2002
Grade 4, Boulder Bluff Elementary
On September 11, 2001 two airplanes crashed into the "World Trade Center." This day will never be forgotten. The year went by quickly, but in terms of life experience it felt like a lifetime.
Things are more positive now. We have turned the corner to construction. Each day progress is measured by rebuilding the new 7 World Trade Centers. Americans have come together all over the world. States have made plates for their cars that say "God Bless America." Just about every company in America has donated money to the families that have lost someone in this tragedy.
Americans have come together as one. We have learned to respect our neighbors near and far. We have learned to appreciate our loved ones more dearly. Schools have taken extra precaution to protect our kids all over the world. Kids have flags on their seat covers, flags on them and even on surfboards.
Salvation Armies around the world donated money, food and assistance to all the victims. Radio Stations around the world have donated scholarships to all families that have kids going to college. Federal Aide was also given to the victim's families.
We can't forget the armed forces that protect and fight for our freedom and beliefs. They are trying to bring the one person to justice who caused so much pain and damage.
The United States is now a stronger and better place to live. Many countries that we weren't friends with now have sympathy for the New Yorkers and other Americans that lost their lives.
Before Sept. 11, 2001, I didn't know about all the dislike, unkindness and sadness that was going on in our world. The United States can come together, get along and be there for everyone. This makes me proud to be a kid in America!
America: Stronger Since September 11th
Written by Sarah J. Cardwell
September 24, 2002
Grade 8, Hanahan Middle School
Since the September 11 attacks, our great country of America has risen like a phoenix from the ashes of the attack sites. We have become stronger as individuals and as a population, but why? I firmly believe that it is because we took our freedom and safety for granted, and they were threatened on that memorable day.
During my mom's life, true patriotism has swung in and out of fashion like a great pendulum keeping time. Hippies questioned authority and the government during the Vietnam War, but the hippies of yesterday have become the parents of today. Perhaps growing up and raising children has tamed their once wild spirits. The very same people who were seen at protest rallies are now commonly seen proudly wearing red, white, and blue.
Today, even with America as proud as she will ever be, we still look back on those few tragic days. The nation's security has greatly and swiftly tightened as we defied the terrorist's wishes. Like the Chinese proverb, "fall down seven times, stand up eight," we have gotten up, brushed the dirt off our faces and fought back. The National Guard monitors the airports, and the Armed Forces fight bravely overseas away from all that they know.
Our society has strengthened and pulled together, whether it is by risking everything to fight a war for our country's justice in Afghanistan, or simply by waving the flag proudly at every opportunity. We may not ever completely defeat terrorism, but the battle for our country's dignity has been victorious, and the phoenix has risen once again.
America: Stronger After September 11, 2001
Written by Katie Hohorst
September, 2002
Grade 8, College Park Middle School
After September 11, 2001, I realized all of the things that I took for granted, such as my safety, my family, my freedom and my country. I also realized that we Americans took some things for granted. For example, we took the safety of public places and travel, firefighters, rescue workers and the military for granted.
Patriotism . . . what is it really? I believe it is loving and having pride in your country. Even while people were still in shock over the situation, we began to see flags flying. Our country was overcome with patriotism, from the youngest child to the oldest senior citizen. We saw our red, white and blue colors and symbols on cars, clothes, buildings, and jewelry. We watched flags being hung from the smallest Waffle House to the White House! Flags were sold out and flying everywhere.
I have always appreciated my family but you never realize how fragile your life is. After September 11, 2001, things changed in many families across the nation. People became kinder to each other, more thoughtful, and settled many of their past differences. Following this devastating tragedy people realized how precious their time with their families is and just how much their family means to them.
I am proud to live in America. Where no matter what happens, we can recover and show unity because of our strong sense of patriotism.
America: Stronger Since September 11th
Written by Shanna Richey
September 2002
Grade 6, Sedgefield Middle School
America is stronger since September 11th because the tragic events of that day united us as a nation. It may have seemed at first that this act of terrorism paralyzed our country, but what the terrorists did in order to tear us apart actually brought us closer together.
First of all, I believe the most important thing that happened after this tragedy was for the first time in a long time we turned to God in prayer. Our country's leader, President Bush, asked our country to pray. This has not happened in our country since Abraham Lincoln. Abraham Lincoln realized the need to turn to God for forgiveness and for strength. On the night of September 11th, all across America, people were praying. We prayed for each other and were united as one.
Secondly, I believe that this event broke down walls of prejudice. We no longer thought of each other as black or white, Hispanic or Asian. We're simply Americans. Prejudice has caused so much hate in America that we often forget that we are all Americans. We all now understand that it is not our skin color that makes us Americans, but we are all Americans because we all possess to be free.
Furthermore, I believe this act of terrorism makes us more aware of how much we need each other, and we are stronger as a result. Our country has enough enemies throughout the world; we don't need to be against each other. We must stand together as one nation so the rest of the world can see that we cannot be broken.
In conclusion, I feel I will never forget what happened to our country. I hope we always remember what made us stronger and more united. Unity is found in love, not hate.
American: Stronger Since 9/11
Written by Yelena Ten
September 9, 2002
Grade 11, Timberland High School
9/9/02
My Dear Diary,
Have you ever put on a thinking cap to wonder why people fight or argue, and what makes them do it? Every man is a part of nature. Every man has his rights and responsibilities. Every man wants to be happy. Some people don't understand that this is one of the main reasons for equality of all people. These misunderstandings have terrible consequences. Events like September 11 prove this. This tragedy showed defects of all humanity. These events make us think why people are so cruel, that they kill other people, even if they are innocent.
This incident taught us a lot, and showed that history repeats itself. As our generation will always remember 9/11, so in the memory of our past generation there will always be Pearl Harbor. These two tragedies will stay in the history of as "a scarlet letter on the breast of all humanity."
So how did America become stronger after September 11? From my point of view, this tragedy was like a storm for America. On one hand this storm killed many people and destroyed many more, but on the other hand it made America stronger and ready for such incidents. As plants bloom and grow after the storm, so America became stronger after 9/11. My dear diary, you know that America was always a symbol of power for many people, but after this incident great respect was added to this symbol.
There is a good proverb: "One finger is nothing, but the whole fist is a power." America is stronger because now it is a fist, and its fingers are people who are united with one goal, one hope and with one prayer to forgive killers and to save the world from such people. This day united us not only as Americans, but also almost all people of the world, whose goal is to cope with the terrible problem called "terrorism." America became stronger because of the prayers of these people.
My dear diary, I hope that God will help America and all people make peace in the world.
God, bless America!
God, bless our world!
America: Home of the Free, Brave, and Strong?
Written by Katie Orvin
September 11, 2002
Grade 12, Timberland High School
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort,
but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Every generation has a day in time that is ingrained in their memory. A single day that changed life as they knew it. For my grandparents it was December 7, 1941, when Japan struck our heart at Pearl Harbor. That day, as President Roosevelt said, it "the day that will live in infamy." As for our parents' generation, you might hear them say that they'll never forget where they were when President Kennedy was shot. Our generation will never forget the day the world stopped turning, September 11, 2001.
In the morning hours of September 11, 2001, the Twin Towers in New York City, New York were struck by two civilian airplanes. Americans watched in horror as each plane exploded and the buildings were demolished. Not long after, a third civilian airplane was driven through the Pentagon; and a final crashed in Pennsylvania en route to the White House. A wave of shock and alarm spread through the country. America was now under attack, but by whom?
The United States of America had been attacked by Al-Quaida, a terrorist organization stationed in Afghanistan and headed by Osama Bin Laden. America ordered that Afghanistan turn over Bin Laden or face war with the United States. After months of hesitation and anticipation America began its attack on Afghanistan. Countless attacks and bombings later, Bin Laden still has not been found. America helped the people of Afghanistan regain control of their country, and rid themselves of the restrictive Al-Quaida government. Meanwhile, back home in the United States, Americans had done the last thing Al-Quaida and Bin Laden had expected: they united.
While Americans were devastated by the force of the attack, and terrified of what it would do to our country, they did the one thing they knew could make things better: united. Whether traveling on interstate highways or rural roads, the American flag could be seen magnetically attached to or waving from every car. Magazines were flooded with pictures of candle light memorials and fundraisers held for victims and their families. President bush declared a national day of prayer and churches were once again full. Patriotism spread like wildfire from the Atlantic to the Pacific Coast. Americans were determined to send out the message that nothing could bring them down. While our economy was struck hard, our hearts were ignited. Although the attacks were horrific, the reaction by America's leaders and its citizenry has been magnificent. America is now prepared by for whatever happens next.
America has united, and her strength is inevitable. It has been a year now since that awful day in September known as "9-11." Is American any stronger than it was September 11, 2001?
The attacks on America changed life as everyone knew it. The once complacent country is now on constant alert. Immigration is monitored more carefully, security has tightened, and awareness is now key. It is not uncommon to be instructed to arrive an hour early for flights in order for armed National Guards to check you and your bags. Everyone is seen as a potential threat, and nothing is over-looked. All major ports are being more closely monitored by the Coast Guard, and the border patrols are much more vigilant. Congress is now working on a bill that will establish the Department of Homeland Security and elevate it to a cabinet level post with as many as 170,000 employees. National holidays and special events such as the Super Bowl, World Series, New Year celebrations, and even the Grammys, have become field exercises for our rapidly developing security teams and strategies.
Webster's dictionary gives the definition of "strong" as exerting or possession physical power; durable; difficult to break. America exerted physical power with the successful attack on Afghanistan. The outrageous support and unification throughout the country shows our durability. It is not a question as to whether or not America is difficult to break. The economy is slowly rising and the efforts to make America safe are beginning to calm the thoughts of all.
Before September 11, 2001, expressions of nationalism were routinely dismissed as being "quaint" little exercises by many. Americans now exhibit a genuine sense of pride and accomplishment each time they stand and repeat the sacred Pledge of Allegiance or sing the defining notes of the Star Spangled Banner. The recent court case in California that resulted in the Pledge of Allegiance being ruled unconstitutional has been met with a ground swell of defiance beginning with the United State Senate and extending to our local high school football games. Just as the infamous bombing of Pearl Harbor awakened a "sleeping giant," so too has the September 11 Attach on America "re-awakened" that giant that had been lulled to sleep by economic prosperity and unprecedented national feelings of "invincibility." While America has been deeply wounded by the tragic events of September 11, we are now a much stronger national because our weaknesses were clearly exposed and our national spirit has been focused toward a common goal.
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising everytime we fall."
- Confucius
America, Stronger Since September 11
Written by Amy Ballew
September 10, 2002
Grade 9, Berkeley High School
The events of September 11 took us all by surprise. No one was expecting three jetliners to be hijacked and flown into some of the most important buildings in our country. America broke out into panic and prayer when we saw the news. Nobody thought they were safe or protected. If the World Trade Center and the Pentagon could be attacked by terrorists without us knowing, then who knows what else could happen.
Because of these tragic events we, as a nation learned to depend on others. We learned to put away our pride and ask for help. The fact that we cannot prevent everything made us realize that we need to act now. People came together from all over the United States to help those in need. I personally learned that it is not all about me. There are others out there that need my help and if I don't help them, then I'm ignoring my country and God. We learned what it means to stand up for what we believe, even it if contradicts what others say.
One Nation Under God is what we call ourselves. I wonder how many of us actually got on our knees and prayed that God would keep us safe that morning. Before the attacks a lot of us put God off, thinking we were more important. When the news came on and we realized what happened, we knew it was not all about us. God is in control. Because of September 11 we learned to trust God to protect us, comfort us, and help us through our times of trouble. Now, more than ever we truly are a nation under God.
The United States of America is a free country. We are set apart from all others. And while we may not be perfect we are trying. Since September 11, 2001, we have fought to protect our freedom. We have once again joined together as a country to fight for what we believe in. It is our job to stay together, for future generations.
While the events of 9-11 were a tragedy, they are now part of our history. Just as pearl Harbor and the Civil War are remembered, we will also remember September 11. As a nation we are stronger and more united then ever before. We have a story to tell our children and grandchildren. A story of how America was tested, and how we passed with flying colors – red, white and blue.
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Foundation E-mail: admin@bcfoundationfored.org
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