It was a night in March that looked very much like this photograph. I was eighteen and in New York City with friends during spring break. My parents lived in Manhattan at the time. My friends and I were singing, with our arms around each other, as we walked in lower Manhattan. We decided to go up and have a drink and bite to eat at Windows on the World at the top of the World Trade Center.

I mourn the loss of these two buildings. I mourn the loss of lives. I mourn the loss of my country’s innocence. I feel these losses on a physical level.

I know we are supposed to be standing united, but I feel deeply that this country is more divided than ever. It pains me. I think unity is something you have to work for. It’s not something that happens without real dialogue and leadership.

What do you think the solution is? Without pointing fingers, how do you think we can bridge the divide in this country in the aftermath of 9/11? If you could hold a leadership position in this country right now, what would it be, and how would you heal our divide? You don’t have to be an American to answer this question. I’d love to hear from anyone with wisdom on tihs matter.