John,

Today is the 18th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks that killed nearly 3,000 Americans.

On this day, I want to reflect and honor those who lost their lives, lost loved ones, or were later diagnosed with 9/11-related illnesses. But out of the darkness, I also like to remember the courage of our first responders, the resiliency Americans showed in the aftermath, and our ability to come together as a united people.

I vividly remember that day in 2001. I was a freshman in college and woke up an hour after the first attacks. When I arrived at the University of Florida campus, I found it strangely deserted. As I learned what had taken place, I was stricken by the fear and pain that had gripped our entire nation.

But watching America heal from the attacks instilled within me hope and optimism that the United States could withstand any obstacle -- even though healing didn’t always mean Americans were in lockstep.

So, as we face today’s obstacles of political gridlock, hatred, division, and more, I carry with me the belief that we will overcome our challenges as a united nation -- even if we don’t always see eye to eye. I’ve seen it happen in my hometown of Clarkston, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside you to make this a reality across Georgia.

In solidarity,

Ted Terry