Dear USA,

People always ask us why the archive doesn't extend back to January 1st, 2000. It's been quite a journey, and I felt the need to sit down and put my thoughts on paper. Today, I want to delve into the very essence of why American Public Ledger came into existence, and why it continues to hold immense importance, not only to me but to countless others.

It all began on that fateful day, September 11, 2001. This is OUR starting point, the anchor of our vessel, that fateful morning. The world watched in disbelief as the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in NYC crumbled to the ground, and with them, the sense of invincibility that many of us, as Americans, had taken for granted. That day, I stood in stunned silence alongside classmates, friends, and fellow community members, as the realization sunk in that we were all touched by this tragedy. We knew someone who lost someone that day. The magnitude of it was unimaginable, and it was personal.

In the aftermath, our nation was forever altered. It was a turning point, a watershed moment, an event that indelibly marked the start of the 21st century. And as the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, I couldn't help but feel that this transformation needed to be chronicled, documented, and understood. I needed to find a way to make sense of what had happened and how it was shaping us all.

That's when the idea for American Public Ledger was born. It wasn't just another news website. It was a testament to the resilience of the American spirit, a platform to chronicle the juxtaposition of American life before and after 9/11. I wanted it to serve as a mirror reflecting the changes, the challenges, and the triumphs of our society as it navigated through this new and uncertain terrain.

At the core of this endeavor was a profound belief that understanding the past is the key to navigating the future. It was about preserving memories, paying tribute to those we lost, and providing a space for dialogue and healing. It was about celebrating the courage of first responders, the unity of communities, and the unwavering American spirit that shone through the darkest of times.

But why does it still matter, you may ask? The answer lies in the enduring relevance of our mission. American Public Ledger remains a living document of history, a testament to the resilience of a nation. It reminds us of the sacrifices made, the lessons learned, and the enduring values that bind us together.

In a world where the pace of life seems to accelerate with each passing day, it's easy to forget the profound impact of historical events. But by remembering, by documenting, and by reflecting, we gain a deeper appreciation of the present and a clearer vision for the future. American Public Ledger stands as a reminder that the pursuit of truth and understanding is a noble endeavor, one that is as relevant today as it was when I first embarked on this journey.

So, as I pen down these thoughts, I am reminded of the countless stories, experiences, and memories that American Public Ledger has chronicled over the years. It is a testament to the power of the human spirit, the strength of a nation, and the enduring significance of our shared history. And for that, I am immensely grateful.

With unwavering dedication and a renewed sense of purpose, I look ahead to the future, knowing that the journey of American Public Ledger has only just begun.

Yours sincerely,

Moderator 09/11/23