Black Red Yellow Karma Winners October 2001

Karma Giveaway Results - October 2001

THE GIVEAWAY: (up to 3 separate winners)


A Pearl Jam poster by Ward Sutton for the two 1996 New York Randall's Island shows. This poster is drymounted, so it will be shipped flat.	A Pearl Jam poster by Ames Brothers for the two 1998 New York East Rutherford shows. This one was done specifically by artist Coby Schultz.	A Pearl Jam poster by Ames Brothers for the three 2000 New York Jones Beach shows. It is signed and numbered by the artist, George Estrada, and is #22 out of 1450 printed.

THE QUESTION:
In the aftermath of the horrible events during the past two days, it is no coincidence that the first posters to be given away are New York posters (we will probably get to those other areas directly attacked in the future). We all are so heartbroken and devastated, and feel that there are really no words that we can express about such a terrible loss. Giving a poster away seems so trivial at this point, but maybe it will make others happy to express how they feel. The "question" this first time around is to just say a little something about how you feel about the tragedy, whatever you wish to relate, which of course there being no "right" or "wrong" answers.

THE WINNERS (randomly chosen):

New York 1996: John Vogel (Minneapolis, MN)
New York 1998: Lubna Alam (St. Louis, MO)
New York 2000: Robert Murray (Longmeadow, MA)

We are also giving out another signed and numbered New York 2000 poster to Scott Horowitz (see below)...we need your address Scott!

Total number of entries: 70

What follows is a abridged list of what some of you wrote. Obviously this is a situation that touches us all, and it is kind of hard to describe the hurt, loss, and suffering that many people had to go through. But what all of you wrote was extremely touching, thoughtful, and sincere.

And here is what you had to say...

"My feelings about this tragedy are not so clear to me now. I live only 25 miles from New York City and we could actually see the plumes of smoke from the WTC from where I work. It is naturally very frightening and unsettling having this incident be the first serious attack against the continental US since the War of 1812 and it be so close to where I live. Plus you add the fact that having grown up seeing those familiar towers in the skyline all your life and then they're gone, it is extremely distressing. I just hope that they're able to find more people in the rubble as the loss of life we've all experienced is more than any of us should have to endure." -Brian Hyland (Allendale, NJ)

"The events of September 11th, 2001 shattered my world. They were on one hand horrible and tragic but on the other beautiful. The amount of patriotism and generosity expressed by us Americans during this time is inspirational. I now pray and hope the retaliation is on one hand effective in preventing these sorts of things from happening again, but on the other hand specific and accurate, against only those involved and not an entire race, religion or ethnic group." -Josh Behrendt (St. Paul, MN)

"What are we supposed to learn from this? How strong these bastards are? They are cowards. How justified their cause is? They just condemned their cause. To tear America apart? They only brought us and the rest of the world together. The last time America was attacked we showed what America could do. We will do so again. The most impressive thing in this whole mess to me is the overwhelming effort America is making to care for it's own. I live eight hundred miles away and stood in line for three hours to give blood today. The hundreds of American flags I have seen in yards, stores, and even draped over overpasses bring a swelling of pride to my heart that I have never known. We can rebuild towers but not people or their loved ones lives. No words that anyone or I can say can bring them back. People, who were just trying to make a living or to save those trapped, may they rest in peace. America will survive and while we may have been knocked to our knees, we will come back stronger. We have shown time and time again what serious Americans can do. I hope that the bastards who did this know that all they did was anger a titan and that titan is coming for them. I hope everyone is with their loved ones and safe. For those who lost, my heart and prayers go out to you. We will see our way through and make America free from terror again." -Bryan Ashburner (Stanley, NC)

"At first I was angry from the events of the past few days. I was filled with wrath seeing people cheer in the streets at the death of innocent victims; I even wanted vengeance. Now I realize that by retaliating against those people we would become just as evil as they whom attacked us. I am scared for myself, my family and friends, and humanity however I have faith that we may resolve this horrible incident in a way which does not disgrace ourselves." - Nicholas Einar Andrade (Pleasanton, CA)

"What to feel after this incredible tragedy? It is hard to understand but especially hard for someone such as I who lives in Australia to fully comprehend the evil acts that have been done to the USA and the people of the America. I was watching 'Proof of Life' last night, with Russell Crowe and Meg Ryan and it was towards the end of the movie that I realized that this movie was more believable then the actual acts of the attack on America. I found it much easier to believe that people could be kidnapped and ransomed and that six guys or so could better a small army, then the fact that some people could have no heart, no soul to cold-blooded kill tens of thousands most likely. What more to say? Stay strong my American friends and to all those who have lost loved ones throughout the world. -Matt Clements (Bathurst, NSW, Australia)

"Well, it's tragic…I still have in my mind the picture of crashing planes. I can't imagine what those people must have felt. The whole rescue action is an evidence of humanity. The entire civilized world sympathizes with the USA, offer their help, and say prayers for them. I think the American people need such help. Of course, this will not bring victims back to life and there should be a severe response which will show the savage ones that there's no place for terrorism... it's tragic and it is really hard to say anything constructive at the moment… I'm having my fingers crossed for all these people fighting in the debris, searching for more human lives..." -Wojtek Bonecki (Wiecbork, Poland)

"First of all, no matter what happens I don't want to win a poster. I think it's so generous that you guys are doing this, but winning is not my intention. I simply love the fact that you want to put a smile on the face of at least one person. I have one person in mind however, that deserves to have one of these posters. His name is Scott Horowitz (he runs the site named The Sky I Scrape.) He has given a LOT to the Pearl Jam community without any quest for glory or credit. He does it purely for the act of giving. How does this relate to the World Trade Center tragedy? Well his father works in that building. For a few hours, Scott was absolutely terrified, as he knew nothing about his father's whereabouts. It had me so fucking scared FOR him. I know what it's like to have no idea whether your father is alive or not (my father went to East Timor for the Australian Air Force in 1999) and there is nothing more frightening. I could almost feel is fear as these events were unfolding. It had me shaking even though I was on the other side of the world. So many friends of mine in the US were terrified, and I was terrified for them. He didn't complain for a second. He didn't seek sympathy, he was just legitimately scared. I bet he still is. He is so thankful that his father is alright, but it still doesn't heal the mental wounds of being so scared about your father's well being. He will never forget the fear he felt, and it's the same scenario for myself. I can't help but think that a poster in the mail from an anonymous sender would bring at least a slight smile to his face as he wonders who was behind this. It would show him that people DO care and that not everyone is heartless or cruel. The day the towers were attacked is one that will permanently be etched into my brain, but I will remember the fear experienced by people like Scott more than anything else. The fact remains that his father was one of the lucky ones, but it still doesn't make him feel much better. I don't expect anything to come about from this, but I thought I'd give it a shot. In the unlikely event that I do win, can I please ask that this does not be presented to the public? I'd rather remain anonymous.

PS. I forgot to mention that Scott actually attended one of the Jones Beach concerts last year, but was unable to pick up a poster even though he really wanted one." -anonymous

"I've been using music to cope recently and The Beatles "In My Life" struck a chord:

'There are places I remember
All my life though some have changed
Some forever not for better
Some have gone and some remain
All these places have there moments
With lovers and friends I still can recall
Some are dead and some are living
In my life I've loved them all.'

The healing power of music." -Andy Jenkins (Cincinnati, OH)

"I feel totally shocked and devastated…although I am thousands of miles away here in the UK, my mind is constantly in New York/Washington." -Mike Harris (Hants, Southsea, England)

"This is a really difficult question to answer. I'm not American. I have no American relatives. I have no friends who happened to be visiting New York at the time. In short there is no reason that I should feel moved by Tuesday's events at all. And yet I am. Deeply. I cried watching the scenes shown on the television and let me make this clear I'm not a crying person. I feel disgusted by the terrorists' actions and yet I also feel disgusted by some peoples' responses to the atrocities. No I not talking about the celebrating masses in the Middle East - I understand why they are celebrating and maybe they are justified in doing so. Rather I'm disgusted at the responses of the sick people who bombed the mosque in Brisbane or who are hurling general abuse at some of my Asian friends in the USA (despite my surname I'm a white red-headed English girl). The politicians who are suggesting that we carpet bomb or nuke the whole of Afghanistan in the hope of killing the terrorists and their supporters are sick. I understand you guys are grief stricken and are still in shock over what happened but is killing millions of people the only solution? I guess I kind of ranted on there. I offer my greatest sympathies to anyone who lost a family member, friend or even a general acquaintance. Life will go on." -Susie Amini (London, England)

"This is a tough one to describe. Since I'm far away from all this terror, it's like it just happened next door. Just can't believe that this hate exists in the world my kid is growing up in. My thoughts are with all the people of the US, not only those from NYC and DC but the complete US." -Philippe Jansen (Lint, Antwerp, Belgium)

"It has been said many times this is the Pearl Harbor of this generation. I feel that to be a good comparison. This is a moment in time that no one alive now will ever forget. It seems each generation has an event like this that gets burned into their minds and goes down in history. My grandparents had Pearl Harbor, my parents had the assassination of JFK, and I have the toppling of the World Trade Centers. 20 years from now I will be able to tell my children the exact moment and location where I found out about this tragedy. It is a truly sad day for America and all other civilized nations. It makes me happy to see all the support America is being given though. To see people in a London church holding American flags and singing Stars And Stripes makes me proud of the country and the world I live in. This whole event is the most terrible attack ever perpetrated against America, but we are stronger than our attackers and we will prevail." -Stan Harkleroad (Ocean Springs, MS)

"It all seems so very unreal that this has happened, but I do want everyone to know a few things. Whoever was responsible for this, if they do turn out to be a "Muslim"- they are NOT really. Islam, the religion, in NO way supports this sort of sick behavior. The way the media has been portraying this story might make people think that this is Islam- but it is NOT. Islam is a religion of peace, and actions such as these go against the fundamental teachings of the religion. Also, there have been a wave of attacks against Americans who are Arab and/or Muslim. I can understand that people are angry and upset- but by abusing and hurting other Americans, it is NOT going to help anyone! Arab-Americans and American Muslims are American too- they have lost friends and family as well. Please, let us NOT turn against our neighbors in a crucial time like this." -Lubna Alam (St. Louis, MO)

"Unreal: The only word to describe the events that took place in New York and Washington. I feel sick every time I think of those innocent people in the planes or the people who jumped out of the building. No word or picture can ever truly describe how the people who lost loved ones must feel. There pain is one that is indescribable and deep. There is one glimmer of light at the end of this dark tunnel. North Americans are showing heart and teamwork. They are joining together like never before, and in the end North America will be even more powerful and unified. It is a surreal time in the world... Luckily the good in all of us will rise above it." -Jeff Boyes (Pitt Meadows, BC, Canada)

"No matter what differences people have, no matter who did what to whom, no one deserves this…no one could ever deserve this." -Brad Ross (Ann Arbor, MI)

"I am on several mailing lists and news groups and the outpouring of empathy and sympathy from other countries have been great, and very comforting. I never thought I'd be witness to anything this devastating in our country. The song that runs through my head daily is REM's 'It's the End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)'.... though I'd change the next line from 'I feel fine' to 'I feel numb'. I'm watching VH1 and Johnny from the Goo Goo Dolls and Jon and Richie from Bon Jovi did a snippet for the Red Cross asking for donations or something. I can't give money, but I can give blood... Our sense of security has been ripped away, we will never be the same. That's not to say that we aren't strong or we won't get over this...we just won't be the same. A major tragedy like this has a way of making sure of that. I'm in the Midwest, far from NY, but I totally understand and feel the pain of the victims and folks who witnessed this tragedy first hand. I couldn't imagine living through it. It's hard enough sitting here watching it from the comfort of my home. The images will never be erased from my memory, they may fade a bit, but they will always be there. I can't help but sit there in front of the TV and just cry. This shit doesn't happen here. And what saddens me more is the fact that people are jumping to the conclusion that everyone from the middle east is responsible. They are taking out their anger on anyone that fits the description of the terrorists. Innocent people.... fellow Americans. Hell, this country is based on immigrants. I guess ignorance is rampant everywhere. I'm just numb and exhausted...but I have no complaints.... I'm Alive...." -Angela Bresina (Minneapolis, MN)

"I cannot speak about the tragedy, as the horror surpasses the boundaries of human language. The people that are currently giving their time and effort, or their blood and money, are real life heroes. But there also exists no language superlative enough for me to express my gratitude to them. I can only hope that they know, and I can only hope that we all deeply, deeply care." -Dean Gordon Burbage (Hopewell, NJ)

"This tragedy not only pulls the country together, but should also make every person make sure that they never take a single second of their life for granted. I can't even comprehend what has happened, and New York and probably the country will never be the same." -Cory Hocker (Redding, CT)

"How do I feel about the tragedy? I feel a sense of terrible loss and yet at the same time I feel numb - like all the recent incidents were just scenes from a movie. But then when I go to work I am faced with the reality - I work in the travel industry - and confronted with people who are stranded or who have lost family, friends, and coworkers. I also hope that our nation acts swiftly to bring the attackers to justice." -Carl Sylvester (Ely, MN)

"This is the most horrific thing that has ever happened in my lifetime, and I am 38. I have seen the pull back from Vietnam, where we left untold thousands of South Vietnamese to die, or worse, when we pulled out. I have seen wars, bombings, assassinations, and other acts of destruction, but never have I seen one of this scale, ON OUR OWN SOIL no less! The most frightening thing is that they are here, now, and did this. And we can safely assume that they are still here, and waiting to see what we do, and how we react. I fear for my 3 kids, and how they will have to grow up differently, in a different world, where we cannot assume that we are safe just because we are in America. I sincerely do pray for us, because after speaking to many members of this club, and the Yahoo Pearl Jam Poster club, the majority of the younger members have never known war, and are either immature about the ramifications, or are just ignorant-like they have seen too many rap videos, and will just pull out their "glock's" and take care of the bastards. God Bless all of us in AMERICA!" -Michelle Byrne (Cape Coral, FL)

"As a former NYC resident, I was horrified by last Tuesday's tragedy. Having worked in the WTC and lived in Battery Park City, I was shocked to see the devastation. Even more troubling, however, was the absence of those two anchors--the north and south towers of the WTC. To someone who hasn't spent significant time in lower Manhattan, it's hard to overstate the symbolic importance of the WTC towers. For residents, they are the most visible landmarks, the safest subway stop at night, the best place to catch a taxi, and the only mall for blocks (the financial district doesn't have many non-food shops!). I don't even want to think about what my old neighborhood looks like today.... Not to be melodramatic, but I don't think the full impact of the tragedy will hit me until I visit Manhattan and walk the streets of Battery Park City. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and families of this crime as well as those working tirelessly to restore a sense of order to thearea. God bless...." -Lee Bushkell (Atlanta, GA)

"We usually take it for granted when someone asks the question 'How do you feel?' about this or that. The events of the last week are beyond thought or comprehension for me personally. How can one person, one mind wrap itself around so much pain? In the scope of life, this event is more than a tragedy; it is a, if not the, defining moment of the 21st century for our country. It is the worst of the worst. Sorrow, anger, fear.... these are all words that one would associate with an event of this magnitude but none of them accurately apply. When I see reports on TV or read about the latest updates in the morning paper, my heart aches for NY, it aches for DC, but most importantly, it aches for America as a people; as a nation. So, you ask me how I feel about the terrible evil poured out upon our country last week? I cannot answer that question adequately; you cannot read tears." -Micah Rose (Plano, TX)

"What I am feeling: shock and horror and sadness... fear is under there somewhere but I refuse to yield to the fear. I am proud to be a member of the united states… a citizen of the world and we are better than what has happened. We will overcome the hatred and torment and terror inflicted upon us...Goodness will win. Love and peace to all." -Serena Anaya (Miami, FL)

"It is so hard to put into words the emotional roller coaster this last week has been. I woke up last Tuesday to a bright and sunny day here in California - took a shower, kissed my husband goodbye and the phone rang not 2 minutes later - it was my husband telling me to turn on the TV and call him back. I turned the TV on and could not believe what I was watching. I called him and couldn't hold back the tears, as I was talking with him the second plane hit the other tower - and I just gasped. I hung up the phone and called my Mom - we stayed on the phone with each other for almost and hour - I don't think we spoke more than 10 words between us - we just cried and watched in sheer terror! Being a week later - I still have the pictures in my head of the tower crashing and having the realization that no more survivors will be pulled from the piles of dust and debris. This saddens me to no end. On my nightly walks I see house after house proudly displaying the flag and I can't help myself from yet again, shedding another tear. Each night when I get home - I try to keep the TV off - try to escape from the events - but I get drawn in, needing to know what is happening next. And, that is the question, what now? How do we go on from here? My emotions have ran from sadness to anger to frustration to confusion. My heart, my thoughts and my prayers go out to the victims and their families. GOD BLESS AMERICA." -Christy Whelan (Sacramento, CA)

"What can be said about the events of 9-11-01. It was a horrible tragedy and event that changed the world, as we know it. I was relieved to learn that no one I knew personally was directly harmed by the attack. But to see all those who were personally affected was a sight that many of us will never forget. As a side note I want to thank the police and firefighters who have endured act trying to save victims, and the many ironworkers who will have to be called on for the clean up. One of which is a close friend of mine. What else can be said? Here's to hoping that one day things will go back to normal. Let's just hope that we are not to far gone." -Steve Mosco (Bayville, NY)

"Not knowing what to say, or how to say it I am just letting my thoughts flow from my head and through my keyboard. I have never seen so much unity and love for one another as I have in the past few days...it is just too bad that it took an act of such terror, division, and hatred to bring us to this place of support. Thank god for the many, many brave workers who are both dead and alive for attempting to help our fellow man following these brutal attacks. The most troubling thing, for me anyhow, is how to move forward without stooping to these terrorists' level? 'Bombing Afghanistan back to the stone age' as I have heard suggested, will result in more innocent people dying...we need to look at this situation as long term instead of short term while our anger is at its most emotional. There is a fine line between justice and vengeance, and I hope that we can find a way to punish those responsible to the fullest, without adding additional deaths or suffering to more innocent people." -Kevin Moyer (Portland, OR)

"(It's very wonderful of you doing this - please don't think it means little. We all need so much right now.) Anyway, here's what I'd like to say: I feel so empty, I cry myself out every day, but nothing's enough. Not the blood donation and not the money. People see me often ask if I knew someone in the towers or at the Pentagon - and though there were close calls - all I can do is shake my head and say "I feel like I knew them all." My heart is so empty; I'm just glad I have family and friends and we can all support each other through this. One thing I'm determined of is this: They will NOT win. It may take a while if I ever care about the things I cared about fully again. But I will take tentative steps and just try until then. Otherwise, what those people died for would be just to satisfy those lunatics." -Paige Schector (Port St. Lucie, FL)

"After the shock wore off, it showed just how small the world is. We always see images of terrorism from the Middle East on the news, and never blink an eye. Now that it happened here, the blinders came off, and America opened its eyes. Let's hope our hearts and minds follow suit." -John Vogel (Minneapolis, MN)

"I, along with everyone else, feel that this is a horrible tragedy. It's hard for me to even grasp what has happened though. I've never been to New York. I've never seen a 110-story building, let alone 2! And I mean, 10,000 people, that's a lot. I know that's a big number, but I never really seen 10,000 people. I just know that it's A LOT. I also have seen some very disturbing things the past few days. I think the worst thing that I have ever seen in my life where the people jumping from the towers. That was horrific. I do not understand why any news station would ever air that." -Becky Miller (Northville, MI)

"I just think this was so horrible. My best friend lost his brother at the world trade center. It's horrible. But I'm afraid of retaliation and nuclear war. Every thing I once had nightmares about, are becoming horrible realities. its so sad." -Dorian Pippa (Katonah, NY)

"When I first heard about what was happening in New York and Washington I thought it was a joke, too many bad Hollywood movies I guess. When I realized how real it really was I just wanted to go home and be with my family. This event has changed us all in so many ways; we've all become a lot closer. I'm scared though, I hope people don't lose sight of whom the enemy is and that we all have to sit back and think. I can't even begin to imagine the fear of those people on the planes and in the buildings, all I can do now is pray for the families and the victims." -Josee Lacroix (Hull, Quebec, Canada)

"I feel horribly guilty about even thinking about posters right now. The events that unfolded in NY and DC have put things into perspective for me. I can't even begin to fathom what is going on in the minds of the people across this great country of ours who have family and friends unaccounted for, or even worse dead. My thoughts and prayers are with those people who have suffered through this great tragedy. I understand life must go on. I'm just trying to figure out how to do it." -Corvin Keefover (Valparaiso, IN)

"I have constant uneasy feeling about the state of the world these days. The attacks have presented a situation I have never been confronted with along with many others who feel the same. I encourage all who can do give donations and give blood, we can help this country get through this!" -Dave Lampe (Bloomington, IN)

"I woke up late for work that day, 9AM. I turned on the radio, I heard 'there is smoke all over the roof, I can't believe I saw it live on TV'. I was thinking there was a fire downtown (Philly). I turn on the TV and then see the constant replay of the second crash. Then as I am leaving the house, they announce the Pentagon was hit, and the White House is being evacuated! I thought, this couldn't be happening.... what's next? It's like Independence Day (the movie). Silence came over my mind as I was taking the train to work. When I got to work I didn't go to my office I went to the bar downstairs to watch the TV. I could not keep my eyes off it. It was so surreal. I could not believe. I watched TV all day not saying a word. This event really, really affected me until 3 days later. I couldn't sleep at night, I had the feeling I was confined and trapped. I was silent during the day. Emotions are easily aroused, I want to cry but for some reason I won't let it out. I am sure I have the same feelings everyone is having.... fear, doubt, anger, remorse. I keep saying to myself...I have to continue with my daily routines and do what I normally do or the terrorists won...They won.... they did win-this battle...They caused so many of us these unnecessary emotions. I was not going to fly to see the Bridge School benefit...but I am definitely ...definitely going now. Two reasons...as a symbol that the terrorists actions did not cause permanent damage...for some people not that strong emotionally… this really is hard.... second reason... our airlines need the business...plus I need something like the bridge to get your mind of it for a while.... I do think this incident will stay with all of us for the rest of our lives...its really hard to put into words how this has effected me because this is the first time something has so powerful has effected me in such a way." -Ben Stravinsky (Philadelphia, PA)

"Honestly, the feelings of those tragedies resonate much deeper than anything that can ever be expressed in writing. I say this to point where anything that we say about it now will only trivialize the event. However, after the great sadness that shocked me as I watched the towers fall, the one feeling that kept coming back to me was anger. Anger that humanity could stoop so low. Anger that humanity could display such a total lack of respect for fellow people, and other's way of life. The fight ahead of us is not one that will be won by military tactics, but for humanity as a whole to emotionally grow up, and learn to respect and love each other. And as lame as that may sound, it is the final step in human evolution." -Paul Southin (Pointe-Claire, Quebec, Canada)

"It's rather difficult to express in words exactly how to feel after something of this magnitude happens. There are so many different emotions that one may feel...anger, sadness, anxiety, fear, insecurity. The whole tragic situation is completely overwhelming to process and conceive. In a time where tens of thousands of individuals from other countries come to the United States seeking 'a better life' in some regard, how could something this horrific happen? How did it happen, what happened to the security of this nation? There are so many questions that one may ask, with very few answers heard. What can we as a nation and as individuals do to improve our current situation? Most importantly, we can unite as we have been doing and demonstrate that the values of brotherhood and humanity are very much alive in this country. We can help in any manner possible and show our support and love in ways that each of us sees fit. Lastly, we should remember that these ideals and actions of unity should prevail not only in times of disaster and heartache but throughout all time. We are all on this earth to live life. Is it that difficult to help better our lives and the lives of others, and to attempt to make some type of positive impact on our world? It may be awhile before a sense of safety in this country is restored. And this nation and its various societies will probably never be the same. However, we are all in this situation together and we need to support one another in our times of despair. Without this common bond, the restoration of this country and all that it stands for will be impossible to attain. Peace, Love and Hope to all!!!" -Steven Bimson (Tallahassee, FL)

"While it is hard not to be saddened, angry and stunned at the outset of this tragedy, the lasting feeling I have is a sense of vulnerability. These people, whoever they are, are mixed in with the rest of this diverse country and can attack with little warning. Living in New York makes it all that much more apparent when you look down the street to a billowing cloud of smoke. The way the country has come together is definitely reassuring and encouraging." -Bradley Belden (New York, NY)

"I am in the middle of Iowa, but I worked downtown Chicago all of last summer, had perfect view of the Sears Tower out the window, and I can't imagine such a massive landmark, and the people who inhabit it, simply gone. The thought that such a thing could happen is so surreal, until you see the look on the faces of those who truly lost someone. I never want to see that kind of fear and loss on the face of anyone. The effects of this tragedy are so far reaching that even life in the middle of Iowa is interrupted, but not stopped." -Jeff Zoldan (Iowa City, IA)

"I feel angry but don't know where to place blame. I feel vulnerable and don't know where to hide. I feel empty and cannot fill the void. Three friends are no longer here. Families must now go on without husbands, brothers, wives and sisters. If I could emphasize one thing it would be this. If you are an American this tragedy has touched you, whether you feel it now or not, you will feel it someday--when you come face to face with someone who lost their whole world that day. These people are the heroes that go without mention. The heroes who have picked up the pieces and go on, the heroes who have smiled through their pain, the heroes who continue to wave their flags in defiance of the evil that stole those most dear to them. My prayers and love are with you all." -Kevin Kaniuga (Hoboken, NJ)

"Watching everyone come together makes me proud to be an American. I was a bit worried we would retaliate to quickly but I think our government has handled it well so far. I think this makes everyone aware that we are vulnerable to an attack and possibly future attacks. We also need to make sure we go about our lives as normally as possible though. I think the attackers are probably surprised by our resiliency and by the fact that all of America is willing to help in various ways. I think that is one of the best messages we can send these people. Other than that, just make sure you tell the people you love that you care about them. Every day." -Chris Wall (Sacramento, CA)

"I feel proud in these difficult times. I feel proud to see and hear of how America is coming together to show everyone that we are a community of one. I hope that this tragic attack against our goodwill will erase the problems that divided our people. There shouldn't have ever been a divided America in regards to race, color, and/or culture...and my hopes are that now people will recognize that our issues prior to September 11, 2001 were small in scope to the task now at hand...to become a community, a nation of one." -Ryan Miller (Orange, CA)

"Anger, sadness, confusion, just to name a few of the many, sometimes indescribable emotions that came during and after the cowardly attacks on America last September. Since the times of the attack it has been wonderful to see America come together in support of our country as well as those who risked and even lost their lives to save another." -Sean Lagers (Pullman, WA)

"I just remember watching the events on the television here in Illinois. Still, we had to go to classes that day. It was just too amazing… I couldn't leave. I just sat at home watching what was happening and listened to No Code to get some perspective. It was definitely a day that changed my life forever." -Steve Halloran (Champaign, IL)

"What happened that day was horrible...how can someone do this to his brothers? Why can't we just all love each other? So many of this world's problems would be solved if this were the case...one love." -Len White (Delmar, NY)

"I remember watching it as it happened and being in a loss for words. Later that day I began to be a little more rational. I didn't personally lose any friend or family member to the attack but as an American, I was devastated. In the aftermath I started making sense of it all, and the more I thought about it, the more I realized that this was bound to happen. We support Israel, which in my opinion and the opinion of many Arabs, is stolen land. Many of the Arab world were against us in the Persian Gulf War, and afterwards, we continue to keep troops in Saudi Arabia. We need troops there, but I can see why they don't like them. People are asking why and I think I know why. Through our support of Israel and our troops in Saudi Arabia, we're, in some ways, westernizing the Arab world. This is probably the biggest example of why religion and politics should be strictly separate. I'm not sympathizing with the terrorists, but if they were trying to gain their cause in a more peaceful way, I'd probably support them to an extent. You can't blame America either, we're preserving our best interests (in the Persian Gulf War it was oil), and as a Super Power we can't sit idly, we have to side with either Israel or Palestine. It's just a mess, but I'm surprised that this didn't happen sooner. It's a mess and it sucks, let's just hope we don't try to get out of this hole by digging further into it." -Peter Clarke (Quincy, MA)

"Just like everybody else in this country I feel like something so unrealistic in our minds beforehand is now very realistic. It's scary to know that this random event just happened out of the blue and it really makes you wonder what motivates one to cause this much damage to everything and everybody. How could one possibly justify something like this? We will likely never understand what the true motivation was behind it but hopefully we will learn a little bit from it as well as bring them to justice. Just my opinion..." -Jason Huff (Woodinville, WA)

"I feel that almost everything has already been said.... knowing that it's hard to find new words that could possibly provide any insight or solace... As the son of an American I can see first hand the unity that the Red White and Blue stands for...even though my fathers old flag only has 48 stars...my only hope is that the new found unity is directed towards an noble goal rather than towards the underserving... Please before anyone does anything educate yourself.... ignorance is never an excuse.... please try and control your emotions..." -David Heron (Oakville, Ontario, Canada)

"I wrote this on September 13th, I think it qualifies:

At the end of my last writing class, at about 9:30 AM on September 11th, 2001, I was given the assignment to write about an epiphany that changed my life. At that time I was at a loss, I didn't think there was any moment in my life that changed me. I couldn't recall a point in my life that I thought to myself, 'Everything is different now'. About 15 minutes later, I had my epiphany. I can recall leaving class and hearing small pieces of other peoples conversations as I walked across the quad and up the steps to my dorm. Pentagon hit. Talked to my mom. Don't know what's happening. I sensed that something was wrong, but I had no idea what or to what magnitude. I entered the elevator in my dorm hall and started up to floor 5, where I live. The doors opened on floor 4 allowing someone to get off and about 20 people were in the TV lounge watching silently. I rode up to my floor and was greeted by the same sight; I stepped off the elevator to see the last standing World Trade Tower billowing smoke across New York City. Immediately my hall mates told me what had happened. Two planes had hit the World Trade Towers, causing one to collapse, and another plane had hit the Pentagon. I sat down in utter disbelief. I didn't know what to think. Five minutes or so went by before we watched the second 110 story building collapse. All I could think was that I was witnessing in that moment more death than I could possibly fathom. In that instant, thousands of people were dying, and I was watching it live on television. I couldn't react because I didn't know how to. I sat glued to the television for what felt like hours. I was shown replays of each tower collapsing from multiple angles. I was shown footage of the second plane hitting. I saw a fireman who was hit in the face with a hunk of debris and had a huge bloody lump for a nose talking about losing his entire company in an instant. I couldn't watch, yet I couldn't turn away. My chest felt like it was full of lead. I immediately thought of my family. Was my dad in New York on business? Was my mom flying to California for a trade show? I tried calling, but couldn't get an outside line. I finally got through using my calling card and was able to talk to my mom, confirming that everyone was ok. Part of me felt very relieved, but it was impossible to feel much better. After waking up my friend Aaron and telling him what happened, I returned to the lounge to watch with my friends and neighbors. There were so many things going through my head, so many words, but I couldn't put anything together that would make sense of what I was seeing. I couldn't put anything into perspective. The sight of the New York skyline without the trademark towers was almost unrecognizable. I went to my Astronomy class at 1 pm and took my exam. I was the first student to finish out of the 350 in the lecture hall. I handed the exam in and returned to my room. I watched the news coverage and talked to people online, everyone feeling astonished at the events that had transpired so recently. Now it's been 36 hours and I still don't know how to feel. All I know is my vision of America has been changed forever, and I will never forget yesterday. I will always remember watching that tower crumble live on television before my very eyes. I'm frightened; I don't know what comes next. I don't want our country to go to war, however I'm afraid it's inevitable now. I feel as if I'm living in a history book, but I can't read ahead. I know that the events that transpired yesterday will be studied and looked at for ages to come. I've always wanted to know what role my generation would play in history. Now all I want is to erase the mark my generation has made." -Adam Frucci (Hopkinton, NH)

"The events have made me realize that each generation has one major military conflict and this one is ours. God willing it will not effect our generation like Vietnam did our parents. To see NYC demolished is very sad if you have never been to NY go every American should spend some time in our greatest city. The city and its people are very special. We must keep them and the people effected by the Washington and Pittsburgh crashes in our hearts always." -Omar David Garcia (El Paso, TX)

"It's scary. The uncertainties of life felt on such a consistent basis. I've been through some traumatic stuff in my life and I've always survived to become a better person. In grand scales, adversity brings out the best in people. We are communicating more and we are all focused on one issue. We search for ways to heal, others and ourselves. It's truly amazing to see the things we are capable of, how we can join together and make things happen that were unheard of before. Now as we move on, change is inevitable. Hopefully there will be some advances in modern humanity. I've been watching the WWII series "Band of Brothers" on HBO and it's taken on a new meaning now that we are at war. War is hell and as much as I know that we ran out of options with the Taliban, I'm sure they're just delighting in the fact that we're risking sacrifice of our young men and women. I wish that it could be as easy as going in and taking care of those responsible. As time goes on, war will become more familiar and less traumatic, a daily fact of life. I wonder what percentage of the population has never experienced the presence of war? I'm young enough not to have. It's definitely changing all of us, changing our lives and our future. Terrorism is not something we can put an end to. We can only protect ourselves and try to defeat those that terrorize. I'm sad that it comes down to bombings. Of course our enemies are going to say innocent lives are being taken. I have just enough distrust in our government and their ability to cover up that it sickens me. I believe that we will prevail and we will all be stronger for it, I just hope that the cost is not too much to bear. God bless us all." -Heather M. Abbott (Cary, NC)

"This tragedy was horrible in so many aspects. Retaliation was a must no matter what! Unfortunately lives will be lost which doesn't make it right, but we couldn't turn the other cheek. The scariest part of the whole event is the fear of biochemical warfare. I'm not so scared of it against myself, but my 3 year old and 9 month old. It scares me to think I have brought them into a horrible world, but at least I brought them into the greatest country in the world. I wouldn't consider myself a very patriotic person, but the feelings of patriotism that have been felt, and the camaraderies felt by people I would have never even had a second thought about looking at. Anyways the one good thing that came out of this was it really pulled this nation, and the caring towards one another has been incredible. Also God Bless the spouses and children of those lost in the tragedy!" -Robert Murray (Longmeadow, MA)

"There is no one universal solution to any problem of this magnitude especially in this case. So rather than adding more bits of advice and opinions to the endless pile, I just want to say that in the great words of Stevie ray Vaughan 'I aint gonna give up on love.' Maybe he knew what was going on better than anyone." -Marcus Farage (Davis, CA)

"I was going along doing homework, having a normal day. Then I found out what happened. As I watched the news on TV, I was in utter shock. I began to cry, because I couldn't believe what was going on in the USA. I have friends and family in the States. I tried going to school later on that afternoon, however the University was rightly closed. Quite frankly I couldn't concentrate. People were crying on the subway in Toronto. Downtown was barren. I felt unsafe and scared. I was so angry that many innocent people had died. Even today (Oct 10), I still can't wrap my mind around what has happened. How can people kill in the name of religion? People should not use religion as an excuse for their political gains. I don't know how to solve the problem, but I know that the thought of war scares me. I live in Canada and we have pledged to help our neighbours to the south. I just don't know if this war will solve all our problems? There is no quick fix, but those brave people (fire dept, NYPD, volunteers, etc...) in New York need to know that everyone is behind them. The courage demonstrated by these people is the only positive thing to come out of this situation. I think with time wounds will heal. I once heard a quote 'the pain subsides, but the memories last forever'." -Peter Blahnik (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)

"A single act of terror has struck the lives of all nations. It's a scary thought. Fight the fear and endure the pain. Let peace heal the wounds!" -Gad Erez (Rehovot, Israel)

"I first found out about the events that occurred on September 11th that morning at exactly 10 a.m. I had just gotten out of my chemistry lab, and as I was getting on the bus to go back to my apartment, the bus driver informed me of what had happened. I was shocked, and when I got home and turned on the TV, I saw the second building collapse on live TV. It looked like a movie. One of my friends actually thought it was when he first saw the footage. I had nightmares for the next several nights in which I saw the footage of the second plane hitting the second building. I still don't understand why anyone could think of doing such a thing, and I fear that there will be more attacks in the future, unless we put a stop to these terrorists." -Paul Jacob (Oxford, OH)

"One month to the day of the disaster, and we are still in disbelief. Retaliation has begun, and the anger once felt has subsided, making one wonder, couldn't we have done something sooner? Increased security also seems to be subsiding. People want to return to their previous lifestyles, but there's a fresh scar that needs not be forgotten. We are changed forever." -Clint Brownlee (Kent, WA)

"There is not much left to say that has not already been stated. Yes I feel remarkably sad that this happened and yet extremely proud to be a part of this great nation at the same time. I think the most notable thing I can think of to say is that this country we live in has shown more courage and endless possibilities in the last month than I have ever realized. My eyes were opened wider than ever to the opportunities that America offers. Whether they helped raise money or took action as one of our reserves, millions upon millions reacted and came together. Those who died are undoubtedly looking down to America with incredible admiration. God bless America." -Colin Peterson (Winfield, Iowa)

"It was a normal morning in my dorm room. I woke up and flipped on the TV for a second before I went to my dreadful classes. Usually its SportsCenter but for some reason SportsCenter wasn't on that morning. My first thought was disbelief on what the TV was trying to show me. I figured I was still asleep. But then reality started to set in when a few kids told me classes were cancelled. The university I attend is in a small rural area about 10 hours away from New York. However, we were all fearful about what was going on in our nation's capital and New York. It was so horrifying; words can't express what went on. But I think our nation has bounced back tremendously by coming together as one… showing those heartless whatever they are that we won't let this get us down but just make us stronger. Now more than ever I'm proud to say I'm an American. USA!!!" -Greg Michael Schwab (Litchfield, IL)

"The best answer I can think of is this email I sent the Ten Club. I know it'll never reach Mike or Ed but I sent it anyways: It was really inspiring to see them last night with Neil Young. I can't tell you how proud I was as a Pearl Jam fan (addict - according to my wife) to see the people who inspire me also inspiring the country. We had a friend on the 61st floor of Tower #1 who was able to get out. They said it was very orderly and calm because no one really knew what happened. They thought it was an earthquake or something because the building shook and the sprinklers came on. In retrospect it's probably best or else there might of been others who were trampled. He didn't know how bad it was until they hit the ground floor and the marble floor was cracked and buckled from the building swaying and there were pieces of the airplane on the ground. As he walked out, a firefighter told them to run and the second plane hit (luckily the opposite side of Tower #2 from where he was). He said he ran 5 blocks without stopping (which is quite a feat since he is not what you would call physically active to begin with). Unfortunately, the fiancé of one of my co-workers sons' was on the 96th floor of #2. That fell much quicker and no one from above the plane hit has been reported alive. She was only 25. I can't even begin to describe what they're going through right now. I don't know if it's because we're so close to NYC or what, but we've kind of been numb--sleepwalking-- through the past week. I missed a few meetings at work because I didn't know what day it was. I just hope we can handle this as diplomatically as possible. This isn't a holy war and it shouldn't be one. It's a war against terrorists. I've been pretty sickened by some of the anti-Arab/Islam comments I've heard (some even by my own family). If we don't watch our anger and emotion we can become the very people that hate us.... and we can't let that happen or else they've won. It's weird. I feel forever changed and not in a bad, terrible way but in a good way. Certainly, I've mourned my friends and even those I did not know. But, the things I took for granted on Monday 9/10, I do not now. When I hear my kids and wife laugh, or feel the sun on my face, I stop and appreciate it. Well enough from me. Hope all is well with everyone and their families too." -Rich Connolly (Saratoga, NY)

"What do I remember about September 11? Firstly, in Australia is was about midnight when the whole tragedy started to happen.... I remember being woken up at 1am by mum saying America was under attack and being 1am and all I told her to go back to bed, that kind of thing just DOESN'T happen .... not in the US, not here...not anywhere. I ended up taking two days of school, being glued to the television not being able to comprehend a thing. All I was thinking was what the fuck is the world coming to, it just didn't make sense. My heart goes out to the all victims, the home footage of people jumping 100 floors + is the kind of thing you don't forget overnight. Seeing Ed play long road honestly made me cry, you could tell he was trying to deal with the grief like all of the rest of us were. So that's about it, all I hope for is that more innocent people aren't killed, be they black red or yellow....." -Liam Brammall (Sydney, NSW, Australia)