To
Elementary Schools
September 12, 2001
Dear
Children:
Many Americans were injured
or lost
their lives in the recent national tragedy. All their friends and loved
ones are feeling very sad, and you may be feeling sad, frightened, or
confused,
too.
I want to reassure you that
many people
- including your family, your teachers, and your school counselor -
love
and care about you and are looking out for your safety. You can talk
with
them and ask them questions. You can also write down your thoughts or
draw
a picture that shows how you are feeling and share that with the adults
in your life.
When sad or frightening
things happen,
all of us have an opportunity to become better people by thinking about
others. We can show them we care about them by saying so and by doing
nice
things for them. Helping others will make you feel better, too.
I want you to know how much
I care about
all of you. Be kind to each other, take care of each other, and show
your
love for each other.
With best wishes,
Laura Bush
To
Middle and High Schools
September 12, 2001
Dear Students:
On September 11, 2001, many
Americans
lost mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and friends in a national
tragedy.
Those who knew them are feeling a great loss, and you may be feeling
sorrow,
fear and confusion as well.
The feelings and thoughts
that surround
this tragedy are as plentiful as they are conflicting. I want to
reassure
you that there are many people -- including your family, your teachers,
and your school counselors -- who are there to listen to you.
September 11 changed our
world. But
with each story of sorrow and pain comes one of hope and courage. As we
move forward, all of us have an opportunity to become better people and
to learn valuable lessons about heroism, love and compassion.
As we mourn those who died,
let us remember
that as Americans, we can be proud and confident that we live in a
country
that symbolizes freedom and opportunity to millions throughout the
world.
Our nation is strong, and our people resilient. We have a well-earned
reputation
for pulling together in the worst of times to help each other.
I send my best wishes and my
hope that
you will always take care of your family, friends, neighbors and those
in need.
Sincerely,
Laura Bush
from www.whitehouse.gov
