September 17, 2001
Hi Tony,
I just finished reading "All too Real", a piece you wrote describing the Sep. 11th terrorist event.
I'm glad that James is ok too (I'm actually a friend and a colleague of James. He was kind enough to share this with me.)
Tony, I was really impressed by how you captured a rainbow of emotions with your words. Truth is, its been a few days, and I for one, have failed in putting my emotions into words. Because they change so easily, and range from confusion, to anger, to disgust, and fear, its hard to classify them in one category. I guess I'm not the only one...
Your writing in general, and this one line in particular, ("At work today, the most common phrase overheard is "this is surreal." Unfortunately, for the families of the victims it is all too real."), moved me to tears. You're absolutely right. I guess we're the lucky ones, who can say that its surreal, and move on with sore hearts. But if you walk the streets of Manhattan, and see random people carrying pictures/posters of their missing loved ones, you realize how real the pain is for them.
Truth is, sometimes it does feel like a movie, and it makes you want to change the channel, and watch something that will take you away from all of this. Its comforting to get lost in a movie, or a meaningless sit-com, if only for a couple of hours. But I guess we have that option. There are those, who don't have that option. If you look into the eyes of a person who is desperately searching for a loved one, you understand what a bitter reality tastes like. And Its heartbreaking, Tony.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and words. I know we don't know each other, but James always talks about his big brother in WI. I'm glad that I had the chance to read your writing.
Stay safe.
Best Wishes,
Kel