Where Were You?

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day?” That’s the opening line of Alan Jackson’s 2001 hit song commemorating the country’s reaction to the terrorist attacks of September 11 that year.

Everyone has memories of that day. I wrote an article for my 2001 yearbook (a collection of pictures and articles recalling the events of my life during that year) called “Terrorism Tuesday” that tells my story from that day.

Every year on the anniversary date since then the United States has paid tribute to everyone who lost their lives in the 3 attacks that day. The repercussions of the events of that historic day are still being felt through the US military’s continued presence in Iraq and the war in Afghanistan. My son has served in Iraq and my 2nd cousin is currently serving in Afghanistan.

The thing I want to acknowledge is the unique emotional condition of the country in the aftermath of 9/11/01. The best way I can do that is by posting here the lyrics to Alan Jackson’s song. It captures the country’s feelings at the time perfectly.

"Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning)

"Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day
out in the yard with your wife and children or working on some stage in LA?

Did you stand there in shock at the site of that black smoke rising against that blue sky?
Did you shout out in anger in fear for your neighbor?
Or did you just sit down and cry?

Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones
and pray for the ones who don't know?
Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble
And sob for the ones left below?

Did you burst out in pride for the red white and blue?
The heroes who died just doing what they do?
Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer?
And look at yourself and what really matters?

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day?
Teaching a class full of innocent children or driving down some cold interstate?
Did you feel guilty cause you're a survivor?
In a crowded room did you feel alone?

Did you call up your mother and tell her you love her?
Did you dust off that bible at home?
Did you open your eyes and hope it never happened?
Close your eyes and not go to sleep?

Did you notice the sunset for the first time in ages?
Speak with some stranger on the street?
Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow?
Go out and buy you a gun?

Did you turn off that violent old movie you're watching and turn on "I Love Lucy" reruns?
Did you go to a church and hold hands with some stranger?
Stand in line and give your own blood?

Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family?
Thank God you had somebody to love.

I'm just a singer of simple songs.
I'm not a real political man
I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell you the difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God.
And I remember this from when I was young faith hope and love are some good things he gave us.
And the greatest is love
The greatest is love
The greatest is love
Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day