On the morning of September 11, 2001, I was preparing for work when I heard Francois St. Juste on FAME FM announce that a plane had crashed into the first tower of the World Trade Center. At first, it seemed like a tragic accident. Minutes later, as the second plane struck, it became painfully clear, the world had changed forever.

A Global Shock

The attacks were not just against the United States; they were against the idea of safety and stability in modern life. For the first time in decades, people across the world watched in real time as a coordinated act of terrorism unfolded. The images of the collapsing towers remain etched in memory, a stark reminder of vulnerability.

How Air Travel Transformed

One of the most visible shifts since that day has been in air travel. Before 9/11, airports were far more relaxed, family members could walk you to the gate, and security was quick. Afterward, flying became synonymous with vigilance and security:
• The creation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the U.S. and similar bodies worldwide.
• Reinforced cockpit doors to prevent hijackings.
• Strict liquid bans, shoe removals, and full-body scanners.
• Enhanced passenger data collection and watchlists.

Air travel is now safer, but also more demanding. For many, the airport itself has become a reminder of the world that 9/11 reshaped.

A Shift in Global Security

Beyond travel, 9/11 redrew the map of global security. The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, expanded intelligence networks, and heightened surveillance practices all stemmed from that day. Governments around the world invested heavily in counterterrorism, sometimes at the cost of civil liberties, sparking ongoing debates about privacy versus protection.

Human Resilience

Yet, amid the tragedy came resilience. We saw extraordinary acts of courage, firefighters climbing toward danger, passengers on Flight 93 who fought back, and ordinary people who stepped up to help. Communities worldwide stood in solidarity, lighting candles, holding vigils, and affirming the values of unity and compassion.

Looking Forward with Purpose

At Plan for Purpose, we believe that reflection on events like 9/11 calls us not only to remember but also to prepare, to live with intention, build security for our families, and create lasting legacies. Through values-based financial planning, purpose-driven retirement design, legacy and mentorship development, and life insurance advisory services, we help individuals and families navigate uncertainty while planning for what truly matters: purpose, peace of mind, and a legacy of love.

Book a one-on-one session with us at https://planforpurpose.com to determine how our services align with your goals. Also purchase a copy of our book “More Than Just a Payout: How Life Insurance Builds Security and Opportunity at https://a.co/d/eAEQe78

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