See, I was never quite sure why but there was something about the feeling it triggered every time I would look at it that I couldn't quite put my finger to. So, I would revisit it every year until I would come to know with certainty what it is about it that is so deeply profound and impactful.

 

See with images, an observer's feeling is essentially the result or a reaction to another person's action, so by definition, it differs in nature. Yet with this image, the feeling both for the observer and the subject is as if it stems from the same place...that “freeze” response that occurs when our brains decide that we cannot take on the threat nor are we able to escape so we...surrender. The prevailing feeling is that of helplessness; a complete lack of control and ability to intervene that apply equally to both ends. This is probably one of the best examples of empathy as the observer goes from a place of feeling concerned (i.e., sympathy) to step into a person's shoes to actively share in their emotional experience (i.e., empathy).

Remembering all the falling men and women of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and all the victims of terrorist attacks occurring around the world and/or have occurred throughout history.

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To learn more about the history of the September 11 attacks and 1993 World Trade Center bombing, visit the 9/11 Memorial Museum.