On having a Sept. 11 baby

To be honest, I was shocked at the reactions we received (and still get) that Milo was born on 9/11. All of them fairly negative to be honest. That is why I was especially moved when Errol wrote the letter below as his Director's letter for ELP's September newsletter. Since he never blogs, I thought I'd share this on his behalf so Milo and Elsa see it when they look at this years from now.

Dear Friends, Fellows and Community,

I am continually amazed by the power of stories - the way they shape our memories and help to create our future. Each of us has a story about 9/11 - where we were, how we felt and how our lives have changed because of it. Unfortunately, the thought of September 11 congers up memories of anxiety, fear and uncertainty - it's not that we want those feelings, but the stories we hear and share about that fateful day cause them.

September 11 has a new meaning for me and one I want to share with you. I don't expect it will change your feelings as that day rolls around next year, and each year after, but I am hopeful it will allow you to pause and think that days on the calendar, and our memories of those past are what we make of them.

September 11 now holds the feelings of love, of joy, of hope and possibility - it is the day my son decided to make a dramatic entrance to the world at 2:28am on September 11, 2011.

Though my memories of where I was, and how I felt on 9/11/01 will never change, I will look forward to that day each and every year of my life - not to mourn the loss of life, but celebrate its arrival.

Errol Mazursky

Executive Director and Proud Dad