Remembering September 11.

I had an extremely fun time at PAX 2009.

However, for this entry, I want to take time to remember 9/11. It does not seem like it was 8 years ago. I still remember what I was doing at the time: I was in lab, because I had been working overnight to analyze a protein that I had made. I needed some liquid nitrogen for the CD (circular dichroism) machine, and when I called the chemistry supply center to deliver it, the guy on the phone told me what had happened. I am a bit ashamed to admit it, but I did not even know what the Twin Towers or the World Trade Center were. (I have never been to New York, and to the East Coast only sparingly.) Of course, Caltech soon cancelled all work for that day, and some of us gathered at a friend's apartment to watch the news for hours upon hours.

About 3000 people died in the 9/11 attacks.

I will close with part of a speech by President George W. Bush, delivered on 9/20/01:

"Presidents come to this chamber to report on the state of the Union. Tonight, no such report is needed. It has already been delivered by the American people. . . . My fellow citizens, for the last nine days, the entire world has seen for itself the state of our Union -- and it is strong."

I always liked that turn of phrase.

Next Tuesday, I fly to Los Angeles for a week. Two friends from Caltech are getting married (Ryan and Vi), and the reception will be at my old dorm/House, Avery House. It promises to be a joyful time, a festival.