I was 15 on 9/11. That night the news suggested Canadians all go outside with a candle to connect with neighbours, & to affirm our common humanity after so horrific a day.

I did, but no one else on my street went out, & my family wasn't really the "bond in hard times" sort.

So I sat alone on the front step with my candle, and I thought about all the other people who also couldn't see anyone out on their blocks.

I hoped they wouldn't lose hope in our common humanity.

I hoped I wouldn't, too.