I know today there are thousands of pieces written by thousands of better writers with more ties and perspective to 9/11 than myself. But still, I'll never forget how I felt sitting in a classroom in 2001 watching the events unfold. The rage and helplessness that overcame me was so strong that if I'd have been of age, I would've enlisted on September 12. For the first time in my life I wasn't just "born and raised" in America...I realized that this was my country.

Looking at the state of politics in our nation right now, I'm reminded of something strange that happened in the days, weeks, and months that followed the attacks of September 11. The country was one. Unified. Politics be damned. At that moment, Republicans, Democrats, and Independents all looked to THEIR leader. Many didn't like President George W. Bush before the attacks, and few have liked him since. However, at that moment when the nation needed a leader, President Bush was there for us.

It showed me why the United States of America is so unique. That no matter the crisis, we will prevail. That no matter our beliefs, OUR NATION, and not the individual, is what matters most.

By Jordan Doufexis