This morning a different set of the students who had planned the route ahead of time, guided us on the subway downtown to World Trade Center Site and the One World Observatory. We quietly acknowledge the events of September 11, 2001 and the lives lost that day while walking around the waterfalls and reflecting pools.
Eventually we entered the One World Observatory. Currently the fourth tallest building in the world, it reaches 1776 feet inclusive of the spire. We learned that the height was no accident as 1776 was the year of the Declaration of Independence. We were fortunate to have a clear day with 360 degree views stretching up to 70 miles!
We returned to the hotel so we could register for the conference which begins tomorrow and to have some down time before the flag procession and opening ceremonies. There were 3400 people at the opening ceremonies from 20+ Nations. After hearing some inspiring messages to help set the tone for the conference, we made our way to dinner at the Olive Garden and then back to the hotel for good night’s rest.
Tomorrow is the big day and we are all looking forward to it!
