In the early morning, the light danced on the waves; and though the towers are gone, there is a strange magical quality in the air. Hoping that time has made me whole again, I come to say goodbye to the past, from across the Hudson. The froth from the waves is a delight; as it ebbs and flows, to nature’s rhythms. The waves hurl themselves on the rocks; where I stand in glee, reaffirming life. I smile at their constant lapping on the shore, as if challenging me to join them in their eternal dance, to the joy of life. The Hudson looks beautiful; and the city is bright in the clear September day. I am happy to turn away; to move on to better things in life, and leave this past behind. There is a spring in my step and the day has just begun!
I return at night to walk Casper, but now in the darkened city the mood is different and more somber, and the glee is gone. We know the towers are gone, but why do I see the reflection in the water of the North and South towers, from where they had stood? My mind is playing tricks on me I know, so I take a photograph to reaffirm the dark mood it lights. I realize that I may have tried to walk away but my subconscious will not let it go, and will not let it pass, and even the camera remembers. I say goodbye to my colleagues again, and turn away; but it clings to my memory, like a faded photo. I realize that even though I may be whole now; a piece of me, will remain here in these grounds forever. I walk away slowly; as Casper looks at me sadly, and know that life is not always, what it appears to be. Our Hope and Faith may be sorely tested, but we must gather our strengths and move on, as time waits for no one. This night is going to be a long one I know, and all I have to do is await the dawn. Surely my conscience will raise the light in the morrow, from this dark despair…