The A La Carte

There are still pieces of that day living in people’s homes, hearts, and minds. For some, it’s a tattooed memorial: 343 inked into skin to honor the firefighters who ran toward the flames. For others, it’s the memories they carry from being there.

Years ago, I shared my life with a firefighter who was called to Ground Zero. He told me what it was like to watch through binoculars as machines pulled apart the rubble, searching for bodies. I’ve seen photos I’ll never unsee, and I’ve heard stories that still sit heavy.

It’s not history—it’s humanity. And it’s our responsibility to teach those who don’t remember, how not to forget.

This week, I thought today would be the heavy day. Twenty-four years later. But instead, it comes on the heels of an assassination that shows how low we’ve sunk. When we can’t even hear an opposing opinion—especially from someone who opened his door to debate and conversation instead of hate—we are in dangerous territory.

Some Americans now believe it’s acceptable to kill rather than disagree. That should scare us all. I’m grateful to work with a political radio show that does its damnedest to bring every voice to the table, not as a shouting match, but as a place to truly listen.

And today, I’m wearing the perfect shirt. Many are in red to honor Charlie Kirk. I chose to join in—but with a twist. Mine is a Ray Bradbury Fahrenheit 451 shirt. #IYKYK. If you don’t, look it up. It matters.

This is life served, not always so expectedly, a la carte

xo,
Ande