Thoughts on the evening of September 11, 2001

September 11, 2001 - 11 p.m.

After tonight’s emotional vigil, there was a conversation in my office involving members of the academic community including representatives from the SGA at which we struggled together with how we take next steps when we cannot even find words to describe what has happened or how the trauma of it all has affected us individually and collectively.

Earlier we sent an email indicating that classes will be held September 12. While the structure afforded by the schedule of classes provides a semblance for how we will go forward, we all know that never again will we be the same…ever.

In the spirit of the vigil held at the Campus Pond, we would hope that we could all advocate for each other in supportive ways, and be respectful of each other’s feelings. The essence of the conversation in my office was our concern about students who may be able to come to class this week but who will be unable to focus; students who will be unable to discuss topics even though their mouths may move; students who are even unable to come to class; students who may be in class when they recoil from the horror of an image recalled. We worried about the feelings of the students, faculty and staff, feelings not yet expressed….feelings that may not always represent our best selves, but feelings that are all too human.

I heard us resolve to encourage opportunities to channel energies constructively with whatever is necessary to allay fears…to make sure that everyone continues to be respected and engaged as part of this community. Sometimes when I don’t have words to comfort, I know I can always hug. We hug in different ways: a touch, a look, a gesture that conveys caring. We must find ways of taking care of each other. Ask "How are you doing? How can I help?"

Other, more familiar kinds of things were also discussed and are in the process of being planned: teach-ins; forums, gatherings that keep us focused on ways we must continue to work positively together. We may need to speak the obvious about our shared purposes: the welfare and spiritual well-being of the campus community.

While we go forward as a community we must be mindful and respectful of each individual as individual choices are made about how to grieve, whatever those choices are…as grieve we all must.

September 11 Updates and Remarks