Remembering

• September 11, 2019
• Susan Breen

I was looking at the site for the 9/11 memorial in NYC and came across this story about the Survivor tree. I found it moving and I hope you do too.

“A Callery pear tree became known as the “Survivor Tree” after enduring the September 11, 2001 terror attacks at the World Trade Center. In October 2001, the tree was discovered at Ground Zero severely damaged, with snapped roots and burned and broken branches. The tree was removed from the rubble and placed in the care of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. After its recovery and rehabilitation, the tree was returned to the Memorial in 2010. New, smooth limbs extended from the gnarled stumps, creating a visible demarcation between the tree’s past and present. Today, the tree stands as a living reminder of resilience, survival and rebirth. “

Seedlings from the tree are sent each year to communities that have suffered tragedy. In 2018, they went to Parkland, Fla, London and Puerto Rico.

A lovely tribute. All those who suffered that day are in my heart.