Today, we observe the 13th year since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
I almost said "13th anniversary," but I think we associate that word with positive experiences. At least, that's the case for most News Bulletin articles. The word pops up in Special Occasions, our section for wedding and engagement announcements. It's in our feature stories about devoted couples whose union stood the test of time.
Perhaps since I associate this word with strong relationships, couples and unions, it's difficult to use a term that's correct by Merriam-Webster's Dictionary standards, but wrong on so many other levels.
Initially, destruction, rather than union, occurred on Sept. 11, 2001. And one strong national couple, the Twin Towers — represented in numerous motion pictures and on CD covers as an American icon — crumbled.
Hatred escalated to extreme acts that reportedly claimed more than 2,000 lives and forever changed countless others.
Let us never forget this day, one of many on which we should express appreciation for our military: women and men who make untold sacrifices to protect our freedoms.
Additionally, let us remember the importance of community — working together despite religious, political or cultural differences — and forgiveness.
When it comes to these values, this saying rings true: "United we stand; divided we fall."
What's your view? Write a letter to the editor or tweet News Bulletin Editor Thomas Boni.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: EDITOR'S DESK: Remember, united we stand…