A long time ago my grandparents would gather with their friends and talk about the economy, their jobs, how hard it was to save a dime, etc. Whenever Dec. 7, 1941, came up for discussion everyone had something to say. I saw their tears rolling down their faces as they talked of America's only tragedy. I did not know how to feel emotionally as they chatted.

When Sept. 11, 2001, came about, I was minding my own business and someone asked me if I knew we were under attack.

"You have got to be kidding," I said to my client.

I turned on the TV just in time to watch the second plane go through the second building. The horror it caused. My heart sank; my tears could not stop. Lost loved ones left in a blink of an eye.

I understand now the sadness my grandparents had when discussing their terrible day. I still can't watch the history of 9-11 without tears running down my cheeks.

We have felt the terrorist blow. How could they do that to us? Why would they do this to us? I know we live in a world where some people cannot accept us and our way of government and our way of life.

Sept. 11 will never leave my mind or heart. The phrase, "Let's Roll" will echo in my mind for years to come. It has taught me to be more pro-active instead of doing nothing - Carpe-Diem - seize the day. In other words, act now before it is too late.

If I am around when my country is ever threatened again or my friends and family, I will stand up and fight. It is called Freedom! I live in a country that protects my freedoms. I say to one and all, never forget the price our country has paid for freedom. It is mighty costly.

Forget for a moment that we are Democrats and Republicans and let's just be Americans, standing in unison under one flag, united in our efforts to do good and protect the domestic tranquility that all men are created equal under the eyes of God.

God Bless America! Richard T. McQuinn Lafayette