I had arrived early to work that day, and I was sitting at my desk typing away. The brokerage house where I work has 2 TVs constantly tuned to CNBC, and we’ve all learned to disregard the noise when we’re focused. But for some reason, a few of my fellow workers were gathered around the TV.

I started to listen, and they were discussing the fact that A PLANE CRASHED INTO THE WTC. There was speculation as to why, and we were all convinced it was an accident. As we are watching, however, we see ANOTHER plane crash into the WTC! Unbelievable!

As we watched the events unfold, I am feeling nothing, I am numb.

There are philosophical discussing breaking out all over the office. What does it mean… The Bible says…

Me, I can’t think about that right now. What I am thinking about are the repercussions for people of Middle Eastern descent here, or people who aren’t but just look it. Kid you not. That’s what has me worried.

My best friend, who was born in UAE-his sister in law just gave birth to the most adorable baby girl you’ve ever seen. That’s what worried me. That she would be okay. I know how crazy we can all get.

But I have to say that in the aftermath, I attended an interfaith prayer meeting that left me in awe. And I know now that though there might be a few incidents no one is proud of, we have come a long way in the fight against bigotry. We’re not there yet, but we’re slowly getting there.

I can’t believe how much this sounds like the ending to an after school special. But it was the way I experienced 9-11, so I guess that the way it should read…