My September 11th Experience
09/11/01, I’ll never forget. It was my freshman year at Winston-Salem State University. I had to work that morning at Yeatts Carpet Cleaners in Winston-Salem, and while at work on the shop floor one of my managers (Jason, who was a jokester lol) ran back and said a plane hit one of the twin towers. I didn’t believe him. He said, ‘Come see!’ So I ran into the office and I saw one of the most horrific images I had ever seen! As all our eyes were locked on the TV, the 2nd plane hit and my heart and stomach sank at the noise of the explosion and the torment of the people! “We are under attack and the world is ending!” my 18 year old mind thought. I left work early that Tuesday morning and went to campus…
Upon arriving, all classes had been cancelled so I went to the Ram Shack. It was so crowded that day with students, faculty, and staff watching every TV. One of my friends was a student from NYC. She was crying, frantically trying to call her mom who worked in the twin towers and couldn’t get through. I remember the Campus being a ghost town outside, and feeling one of the most lonely feelings ever.
Processing the Tragedy
That night we had a candlelight vigil, and I went home to be with my parents. I remember thinking “it’s all over”. So many people died, others were missing, and news coverage on every channel. I remember praying with my family. Our lives would never be the same again.
25 Years Later: A Message of Hope
Fast forward 25 years. It’s 2026, praise God! His grace is still on this country. I truly believe that is why we are still here. Regardless of our race, ethnicity, religion, culture, political affiliation, or differences it is evident that God isn’t done with us yet! I share my story because 3 generations have been born since then (Gen-Z, Gen Alpha, and now Gen-Beta) and it’s important for us all to stand up for what’s right. What’s noble. What’s true. What’s real. Most importantly, everyday is a gift from God that should never be taken for granted.
Looking back on that fateful day, I realize how profoundly it shaped who I am today. The events of 9/11 taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of holding tight to faith during dark times. In a single moment, our sense of security was shattered, but it also unified us in ways that transcended all divisions.
Today, as a Christian rapper and “Neighborhood Hope Dealer,” I channel the lessons from September 11th into my message of faith and hope. I believe that our shared humanity and spiritual connection are far more powerful than any force of darkness. We must remember those we lost and honor them by living with purpose, spreading love, and standing up against hatred and division.
