Sept. 11 Commemoration

We commemorated the 10th anniversary of September 11 by gathering with Americans, Swedes and others outside the American ambassador’s back yard in Stockholm. The day had a cold, cloudy and blustery feel. Unfortunately, our reception at the ambassador’s home felt the same way.
Post 9-11 realities have resulted in extensive security measures at airports, transportation hubs and at our American embassy in Stockholm. Those measures include a high chain link fence topped with coils of razor wire greeting visitors, not projecting an inviting “welcome to America” feel, but sending a clear signal to “keep out.” No doubt the measures are warranted and a prudent response in “today’s” world. But seeing the other nearby brick diplomatic buildings still cloaked in ivy and old world European charm it was hard not to feel a sense of loss. 

Our gathering at the ambassador’s residence was organized by the American Club of Sweden. The embassy staff also gathered, but they gathered within the ambassador’s home. 
We and other fellow Americans, however, stood outside on a grassy patch wanting to be included. Inside a color guard raised the colors, songs were sung, speeches made and poems read. We stood in the chilled air in small clusters straining to hear under the very watchful eyes of Swedish police officers who provided extended security outside the ambassador’s home.


Despite the distance between us and those inside, we were grateful to have a venue to remember that horrific day a decade earlier.
A small memorial had been erected on the grassy knoll that was adored with flowers brought by those who choose to gather together that day. Lit candles extended the sense of reverence. As people arrived, they were drawn to the small memorial. All paused and stood silently. We could only wonder of their thoughts and their personal moment of discovery of the events on September 11, 2001.
Jay was in California and received a phone call around 6:00 a.m. with emphatic instructions to “Turn on the TV!” He asked, “What channel?” The answer was a simple; “It doesn’t matter.” Helen was at school and noticed teachers gathering in the lounge about the TV. It was a shocking experience. All teachers at the school were instructed not to say anything to the students, but parents started coming to the school to get their children. Some students did not return the next day for fear of further destruction.


The cluster of people behind the Embassy slowly waned as couples and families turned to resume the daily tempo of life’s activities. We walked back to our apartment where Jay finished his packing before heading to the airport for a trip to Eindhoven in The Netherlands. 
At the airport, Jay followed the now familiar routine of security: lap top out, liquids scanned in their 1 quart bag, metal detector walk, followed by a random physical pat down which is common here. Much has changed in 10 years. Much has been lost in our sense of ease and connectedness. Maybe…maybe someday it will change again to a warmer, more welcoming world.