2001 September 16 Sunday New York Tough

My reaction to tragedy is delayed and subdued.

My defense mechanism is denial. My coping strategy is work. I work it all away. When the danger dies down on Tuesday, I take my folder to Bryant Park for a few hours of productivity. Same story on Wednesday and Thursday. I'm among the last to leave the office on Friday.

New York is a tough city. New Yorkers are tough people. In light of its leaders, its heroes, its everymen, I am more committed to staying in this city than I have been before. I feel in the hugs of my friends the embrace of our place.

I love not only my city but also my country.