The world changed eighteen years ago today on September 11, 2001. Today we take time solemnly reflect and pray for the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on that fateful day and for the people here and abroad who have sacrificed so much since then to rebuild our country.

As our nation continues to rebuild and thrive, the strength and resiliency of the United States of America makes me thankful for what we have in this great country. I remember that fateful day 18 years ago and I remember how the weeks after was a time renewal when Americans came across religious, political, social and ethnic lines to stand as one people. If we work hard enough, we Americans can carry that sense of unity moving forward and renew our nation and the world.