As we pause as a nation to remember those who perished on September 11, 2001, as well as the brave soldiers who have fallen in the fight against terrorism since then, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the many examples of selflessness and unity that still binds our country even 15 years later.

“If They Could Speak” is a 9-11 poem written by Rosanne Pellicane. It was selected as the keynote for the permanent 9-11 exhibit at the New York City Fire Museum. It honors the 343 firefighters who lost their lives at the World Trade Center.
If They Could Speak
~ Rosanne Pellicane, 2001
Please don’t be afraid.

Yes, life is different now but remember when it was beautiful?
Well, it will be again, though not the same.

The wounds will heal, your tears will dry and though scars remain,
I know you are strong enough to live through the pain.

Do not grieve and linger in the shadows of graves.
Go out into the sunshine and tell everyone that I was here.
Let our enemy know that when we were together we lived, and worked and loved.
And though I am gone, you will carry on for me because you must.

Tell my family how much I loved them and still do.
Remember the good we shared, the life we created, and
walk forward with noble dreams.
God can’t fill a shattered heart or a clenched fist.
Let fear die and let love flow again like a river.

So as the smoke rises high above the ash,
gather all your strength and rebuild some new, something better.
It’s not impossible.
It’s essential.
It’s what I would do for you.

Just one last thing, surely you must know,
I never wanted to leave you.
I was captured by fate,
escorted by angels.
And though you might feel you are alone,
you are not and neither am I …

Love always