9/17/2001
 
    This morning when I went outside to get my paper, I saw a number of photocopied letters sitting on the bench next to the
paper box, held down by rocks to keep them from blowing away.  I don't know who wrote it, or even if the writer lives in my
apartment complex.  When I read it, I felt that I should share it with everyone.

  I think the letter speaks for itself.

Greg
---------------

To my American Family,

I used to feel so sad about the things that were happening in our land.  Drive-by shootings.  Robberies.  Racism.  I used to think that America was disappearing, every day, a little piece our different colored threads that make us who we are, unraveling, coming apart at the seams.

But on September 11, 2001, in the darkest place we have ever been together, there was the small, faint, flicker of a light that I remembered shining from long ago.  A flame so brilliant, that the entire world could only look on in awe and wonder as it began to burn brighter and brighter, and its warmth found its way into the coldest corners of our world.

I saw that brightness relit in every one of our hearts.  And as we raise this beacon of hope higher and higher, my pride and gratefulness to be counted among you shows me the path ahead, and I am no longer afraid.  My heart is shining and proud once more.

And it is an honor once again to say the words that will be my greatest treasure of all.

Yes.

I AM AN AMERICAN.

            Bless you each and every one.
            And thank you.