2,753 at the World Trade Center.

184 at the Pentagon.

40 in a quiet field outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

I don’t write about politics or social justice. Although, I would still be interested if we ever develop a cabinet office for National Mother. I’d send more than a few people to their rooms without supper.

And today, when grandchildren and mothers and strong brothers who rarely weep are reading names at the memorial in New York City, I would like to tell everyone else to be quiet.

To stop shouting. To stop ranting.

To listen.

And to work together for whatever good is left in this world. To be the kind of people who run into the building, no matter who is struggling down the stairs.

I think we can rise above the meanness and remember how to be our better selves.

We did that, you know, once upon a time.

Let’s do it again.