From the desk of Richard Faccio: Contemplating September 11th

The Island Now

Richard Faccio, New Hyde Park Memorial High School principal, made the following remarks to the high school students on Tuesday morning:

Good Morning.

On this day 11 years ago events occurred which have changed the course of history as we know it. The attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and aboard many flights throughout the country affected our nation like few events have ever done in our history. Eleven years ago today thousands of Americans were injured and killed. These included brave public servants and everyday citizens, many of whom were individuals that were known and loved by those of us in New Hyde Park Memorial

Since that time our nation and many others have been plunged into wars as a direct consequence of these events. What have we learned? In the words of Lawrence Bacow, president of Tufts University:

“We have learned once again that hatred burns deeply within some people – people not interested in making the world a better place, but only in inflicting pain and suffering upon their enemies. We have learned a lesson as old as religion itself – that there are those who are willing to desecrate sacred texts by committing violence in their name.

We are again reminded how easy it is for bigotry to reassert itself – that no religion or nationality should be held responsible for the acts of a zealous few. We have learned once again that it is easier to act with anger than it is to try to reconcile differences. But we have also learned that common people are capable of acts of uncommon bravery. We have learned yet again the importance of community. We draw strength from each other. This statement is as true for nations as it is for individuals. And, we have learned that we should not take the freedoms that we enjoy in this most special of nations for granted.”

As the events of September 11, 2001 grow more distant, let us not forget the responsibility we, as a nation and as individuals, have in making our world a better place. And perhaps most importantly, remembering those individuals who lost their lives on that day. September 11 has been declared Patriot Day for our nation.  On this day, flags across the country are flown at half-staff along with a moment of silence as a mark of respect for those innocent victims who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.  Would you please join me in a moment of silence as we remember those victims and their families. Thank you.

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