On this poignant day, I find myself reflecting on the enduring spirit of resilience, both in the heart of New York City and across the seas in Morocco. September 11th is a date etched into history, forever reminding us of the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.
Twenty-two years ago, I found myself living in the heart of New York, a city that pulses with life, ambition, and diversity. On that fateful morning, as the world watched in disbelief, I stood downtown, camera in hand, bearing witness to the unimaginable. The events of 9/11 unfolded before my eyes, etching memories of bravery and heroism into my soul.
The first responders, the firefighters, the police officers, and the countless unsung heroes rushed towards danger as others fled. Their courage, their unwavering dedication to saving lives, is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. I watched, humbled, as they worked tirelessly to rescue those trapped in the debris and to provide solace to the grieving.
In my book, “Resilience,” I explore the power of finding personal connections in stories and places I travel to, and this day was no exception. Just as the threads of history connect us, so did my experience in Morocco eight years ago on this very date. In a land far from New York City, I shared stories of that day with a host family who were genuinely intrigued by my experiences. We spent the afternoon engaged in a heartfelt discussion, not only about the tragic events of 9/11 but also about the complex relationship between the Muslim world and the United States.
Our conversation took an unexpected turn as we delved into the rich history of Morocco’s relationship with the United States. In December 1777, Moroccan Sultan Muhammad III demonstrated remarkable foresight by including the United States of America in a list of countries whose ports were open to Moroccan trade. Morocco became the first nation to publicly recognize the fledgling United States. This historical connection between our two countries was formalized in the Moroccan–American Treaty of Friendship, negotiated by Thomas Barclay and signed by Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Muhammad III in 1786. We are old friends, with roots that run deep.
As I reflect on this historic date, I remember not only the bravery of the first responders and the heroic work I witnessed firsthand but also the resilience of New York City and its residents. They stood united, proving that even in the darkest of times, hope and strength can prevail. But, today, my heart is heavy as I also send a prayer across the miles to our oldest friends in Morocco. They, too, face adversity as they continue to search for survivors and as their own first responder heroes work tirelessly after the devastating earthquake that struck just last week. The threads of resilience and friendship continue to connect us, reminding us that in times of crisis, humanity knows no borders.
In the tapestry of life, moments like these serve as reminders of our shared humanity and our capacity to endure, to empathize, and to support one another. As we remember 9/11, may we honor the memories of those we lost by embodying the same resilience that defines the spirit of New York City and the enduring bond between nations.
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