Sept. 11 is here, yet again. As University of Wisconsin students make their way through this day that can only remind most of tragedy, many will shudder at the constant talk of the terrorist attacks. Others will go through their classes, their jobs and their daily tasks in remembrance, most likely with mixed emotions of relief and sorrow: relief that the United States as a country has essentially pulled through, and sorrow that even though the nation has ‘”pulled through,” it is still suffering in more ways than one and still mourning for those who were lost in battle and heroic rescue attempts.

However, after two years, the question is this: Is it time to move on, or should the day be filled with memorial services, prayer services and candlelight vigils?

Everyone is bound to have their own opinions regarding this question, however. Is two years long enough? The nation lost more than 3,000 souls to terrorists and in just two years Americans should be “over it”? No.

Some of the most genuine and courageous people ran up those flights of stairs in rescue attempts — many in failed rescue attempts. They risked their lives to save grandparents, parents, children, brothers and sisters. On this day, students and citizens nationwide should be honoring the lost as they continue to lead their normal lives, the normal lives these people were trying to live two years ago.

Although perhaps references to 9/11 in news reports and daily talk could be toned down throughout the year, on the second anniversary, talk should be welcomed and encouraged. Students did not go through this alone in 2001 and in 2002; why should they in 2003?