Today, September 11, marks another year since that horrific day in 2001 when the world changed forever. While millions of us were watching, literally thousands of human beings died in front of our eyes — and we were powerless to do anything about it. The shock, the sorrow, the anger — they still echo in our hearts today.
Let us never forget anything about that day. Let us remember so that we can honor the innocent lives lost, the brave first responders who rushed into danger, and the families who continue to carry the heavy weight of loss.
To the hundreds of Americans currently relocating to my home country of Panama — welcome to paradise. We are a good and peaceful people, and we open our arms to you. But in order to preserve peace, we must also carry the memory of September 11 with us. History should never be allowed to repeat itself.
As we pause to reflect, let us commit to building a world where unity, compassion, and peace are stronger than hate. That is the best way to honor the fallen — and to remind ourselves why we shall never forget.