. (this is the quilt square created in memory of Alicia by one of thousands of volunteers for this incredible non-profit organization: United In Memory)
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In my attempts to" build" an accurate and personalized memorial, I failed to find much personal information about Alicia Acevedo Carranza. I learned only that she left her home in Teziutlan, Puebla, Mexico to find a better life in the United States. I learned that she was loved by her fellow students in Mexico, and that she befriended at least one who came there to study from a Central American country. I don’t know how old she was, if she had siblings or a boyfriend or husband...
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But I do know this: Alicia was a beloved daughter. Her life brought light and love to a family. Her smile warmed hearts. Her laughter brought joy. She sought adventure in a big city, she wanted a better life for herself and for her family. She may have sent her family in Mexico the money she earned working in New York. Someone said she had an "angelic face, compassionate mind and a free spirit." She touched the hearts of many. She was a friend. Someone that others loved and appreciated, and still mourn.
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Unfortunately for those who loved her, and those who knew her, her life was cut short at the hands of extremists. That Tuesday morning, she was on time to work - already at her desk? perhaps cleaning the floors? maybe cooking food in the cafeteria? on the phone as a customer service rep? We may never know what she was doing at the World Trade Center that morning when the planes hit.
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But her life mattered. Alicia mattered. And on this day, five years after her death, I want to honor her life. Her unknowing sacrifice has impacted the world. You can see how many people have left tribute messages here and here. People who have never met Alicia, and some who may have known her before she came to America seeking a better life. . Our country is indebted to you, Alicia, and all those who died alongside you on that fateful day. September 11, 2001 is a day that will live in infamy. . On this fifth anniversary of the tragedy that took Alicia home to the Lord, I just want to extend my personal condolences to her family and friends. While Alicia came to America to make a life for herself, you can be certain that your daughter and friend has found paradise with God. Alicia, you will not be forgotten.
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God Bless all those affected by this national tragedy.
