- Roman Catholic Priest (Franciscan), Chaplain of the Fire Department of New York, Gay American; son, brother, uncle; known for his tireless advocacy and work for his flock, the homeless, recovering addicts, and AIDS patients - first certified fatality of 9-11
Last year I was blessed to observe the 10th anniversary of 9-11 in Paris. It was a poignant experience. But somehow this year is even more so. For, while on the 10th we (at home and abroad) celebrated the bravery and strength of a people in the most challenging adversity, this year we simply morn all those we lost, the thousands on that day and the tens of thousands around the world since that day.
On this sad day, more than any other, this American gal is reminded of, consoled by, and oh so proud to be a member of a country, society, and culture of many hues, ethnicities, and religions. Yeah, we don't always get 'it' right, but we...get it. On a day like today, in spite of all our other bullshit, we cannot forget or escape how fragile we are.
"Perhaps this final act was meant to clinch a lifetime's argument that nothing comes from violence and nothing ever could...on and on the rain will say how fragile we are."
Vivre! Rire! Aimer!
Panel S-18 (1st Responders),
National September 11 Memorial - South Panel
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