2023-07-16 -- Twin Towers

The majestic Twin Towers (1), once a symbol of American power, soared above Manhattan.

The Twin Towers, towering over Manhattan, were a global symbol of American power and prosperity, their image etched into the collective consciousness. They were featured in countless Hollywood films and documentaries long before the attacks.

Visible from afar, the Twin Towers were a dominant feature of the New York City skyline.

I used to be a blind patriot, a misguided soul, ignorant of the world beyond my own narrow perspective. Even though I wasn't American, I carried a toxic, racist undercurrent.

Years before setting foot on American soil, I studied one of history's greatest architects, Minoru Yamasaki (2). Absurdly, I couldn't fathom a Japanese man achieving such greatness. My mind was so clouded by prejudice, I'd rather have seen a fictional, white architect in his place.

Today, as I peel back the layers of my ignorance, I feel a deep sense of shame. Yamasaki, an immigrant subjected to systemic racism and the horrors of World War II, defied all odds to leave an indelible mark on the world. His iconic designs stand as a testament to his brilliance and resilience.

A few years ago, I visited Manzanar National Historic Site (3). The stark reality of the Japanese American internment camps hit me like a ton of bricks. It's hard to comprehend that in 1942, over 110,000 American citizens were forcibly removed from their homes and imprisoned in desolate camps. A dark chapter in American history, a stain on the nation's soul.

The physical remnants of Manzanar may have faded, but the memories linger. Survivors of this injustice, some well into their nineties, carry the weight of history. Their stories are a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

A symbol of freedom and a masterpiece of architecture, captured in a single frame. The iconic Statue of Liberty stands tall, overlooking the breathtaking skyline of New York City, including the World Trade Center, a poignant reminder of resilience and human spirit.

I had the privilege of ascending to the top of this architectural marvel. The panoramic views, especially at night, were simply awe-inspiring. It's a truly unforgettable experience.

Back then, I gained a profound understanding of nature's raw power. It struck me that no matter how arrogant or destructive we humans become, nature will always find a way to assert itself.

Whether it's the boiling waters of Yellowstone or the tragic events of 9/11, a simple element like moisture can be the catalyst for dramatic change. It's a humbling reminder of our place in the natural world.

Each tower was a marvel of engineering, built around a central core that housed elevators and utilities. The floors, suspended like delicate membranes, were held in place by the building's structural facade.

The shocking footage of the attacks revealed a calculated strategy. The planes, angled to maximize damage, would have sliced through multiple floors. The fuel, ignited within the core, would have melted the steel beams, weakening the structure. The top floors, heavy and unstable, would have collapsed onto the burning inferno below, triggering a catastrophic chain reaction.

Could such a complex attack have been planned with such precision? It's a question that continues to haunt us.

Yet, from the ashes of tragedy, a new symbol of hope and resilience emerged. The rebuilt World Trade Center stands as a testament to human spirit and the enduring power of architecture.