Letter to the Editor

o7 The following was written by Jessica Ehrlich, 22, who is in law

school in New York City. Jessica is from Seal Beach and is the daughter

of Helene and Richard Ehrlich. Richard is a display advertising

representative for the Daily Pilot. The letter was written Sept. 11.

f7

Hello to everyone,

Sorry for the e-mail, but the phone lines are so backed up I thought

this would be the best way. Well, I am writing to you from New York City.

Today (Sept. 11), I had an experience I never dreamed of and at times

felt like it could not possibly be real.

My law school is only four blocks from the World Trade Center. As I

was coming up from the subway this morning, I witnessed the entire event,

including people plummeting to their death. I then proceeded to run

through the streets of New York fearing for my life. It took me six hours

to get back home and had to walk over the Manhattan Bridge. It is hard

for me to explain in words the carnage I witnessed and the fear I felt. I

can only say it is one that I have never felt before and hope to never

feel again. My school should be closed for the rest of the week, so I’m

hoping to escape to my aunt’s in New Jersey.

Who would have thought I’d ever want to go to New Jersey so bad? The

pit in my stomach does not seem to go away, but I must say that the

people of this city pulled together as one big family in a way that I

couldn’t be more proud of. I still am in shock that such a horrific thing

occurred in front of my eyes and the cloud of smoke and the smell of fire

still remains, even here in Brooklyn.

I just wanted to let you all know I am OK. Peace of mind I do not

have, but my life and safety I do, which is much more than many other

people have tonight. For this I am grateful. I worry about what the

future holds in store. But I shall remain optimistic for this country.

Sorry about the length but thought this would give you a better firsthand

picture. This sure made me realize how important life is and it can go at

any second (sorry to sound cliche). I love you all and hope to hear from

you soon.

Love always,

Jessica