Remembrance – In Memory of the 9/11 Victims

Jasper Johns, Flag, 1954–55

Tragedy and loss are an integral part of life. As basic and self-evident as that is, human beings struggle to accept this fact without trying to understand its origins, causes, lessons, etc. We have difficulty with mystery, non-causation and just plain ignorance. As time passes by our minds are programmed to allow these painful memories to gradually fade away in order to be able to go on with our present lives and future plans.

Matthew Naquin, Blossom

Once in a while, a tragedy, personal, communal or national can be so cataclysmic, it shakes us to the core, transforms our lives in ways never imagined before, occupying an active permanent residence in our memories. Our family experienced such a tragedy with Chris’ sudden death over a year ago. On July 30th, we celebrated and remembered his life and accomplishments specifically Escape into Life. The coming together of those who loved and appreciated Chris was healing and powerful, as we directed our energy to a worthy goal, that of keeping EIL alive and promoting art and literature.

Valerie Chiang, Katya Spinning

Today, our nation comes together to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the September 11 attacks in New York and Washington. Let us pause for a moment of silence to remember and honor the victims of this horrific tragedy, past, present and future ones. Let us put aside our differences for this day and acknowledge what binds us together, our humanity. Let us resolve to take on our responsibilities, rebuild our communities, share our wealth, and be compassionate to all even those who harbor malice against us.

That is a truly honorable commemoration.

Ground Zero 360˚ exhibition at the Chicago Field Museum

Ground Zero 360˚ portrays the story of September 11th, and the days immediately following, from the unique perspectives of a New York City police commander and a photojournalist.  This exhibition features large scale, previously unpublished photographs, original police radio calls, and artifacts from the World Trade Center.  Visitors can also reflect and share their own thoughts and memories of that day. Ground Zero 360˚is also at the National Museum of Ireland and Royal Dublin Society.

Ground Zero 360

From all of us at Escape into Life, may America be strong, safe, and peaceful.