When I was presented with the opportunity to speak at this memorial, I felt honored, but at the same time I must admit that I was very unsure about what I might say. Along with many others, I have thought about the tragic events of September 11 every day for an entire year, but I still didn't know what would be worth sharing. So after a lot of thought I came to the decision to share the most important things that helped me through that day and through the year to follow.

Having this memorial day arrive has made me realize how short a year really is. Twelve months, 365 days, 8,760 hours, but it still seems like only yesterday. Over this past year, I have also learned the true meaning of growth. This country has grown in so many ways since last September 11. Because of these reflections I have learned how important and precious growth is as a young student as well. I have learned to appreciate each day for all it is worth. I have learned to find the positive in all situations no matter how unbearable they may seem initially.

The respect I used to have for firefighters, police officers, volunteers and other professionals who lent a loving hand and in many cases offered their lives in that time of need has now grown to become an uncompromising love and appreciation. The other heroes who helped me through that day and through the year are my friends. Some of these friends whom I hold dear on this day came into my life on September 11 when we, all frightened, crying and lost, huddled into my tiny one-bedroom apartment for shelter. Shelter from the chaos and pain. Shelter provided by the walls of my apartment and shelter in each other's presence. Before that day, I would have never guessed that 16 people, 16 frightened, angry people, 16 strangers could ever get along, let alone be each other's comfort in that very confined New York City apartment. I have not traveled all over the country to see first-hand, but I am sure that there were many valuable friendships born that day.

So on this day I have chosen to celebrate and remember instead of mourn and vent. Today I am celebrating the lives lost last year and those friends who came into my apartment and into my heart. September 11 will always be a day of commemoration in this country but it is a choice for us to make to separate the light from the darkness. So for the years to come the meaning of this day will be defined by each and every one of us. If you feel lost, find the shelter you need wherever that may be or with whomever might provide it.

I would also like to share something my mother says at this time: "Tears are a symbol of pain, but allowing your tears to flow is a symbol of healing." So let's allow our tears to flow and create a bonded river to wash the pain of these events away.

—Michelle Smith, dance student