When Audrey Coleman goes to work at the Dole Center for Politics she confronts a huge stained glass American Flag flanked on either side by steel beams salvaged from the wreckage of the World Trade Center. The tragedy of that day, for her, is always close at hand. Audrey is Director of the Dole Center and a member of Lawrence Central Rotary. Audrey shared some thoughts on the events of 9/11 and lead a session of personal reflections by club members. 9/11 is one of those momentous events that are unforgettable for those old enough to have had the experience. Audrey reviewed the time line of events and asked people to share their memories of that day. Several people believed it was a terrible accident until the second tower was struck. Millions watched the drama unfold in real time and there was fear and uncertainty about the extent of the attacks. Some reflected on the sacrifice of first responders and the protracted retaliation of the United States. Audrey expressed the importance of personal agency and measured discourse in moving our country forward. She credited historian Rick Atkinson with the line “holding the cause of the dead in trust.”
