‘The attack was only the beginning’
■ Name: Astrid Lucas
■ Occupation: Founder and owner, Chattanooga Spanish Academy
■ How your life is different since 9-11: “The attacks were like a surreal experience, a rude awakening for all of us. We live in the greatest nation on Earth and we have so many privileges, but we had never really faced terrorism before. Before Sept. 11, we were observers. Now I believe that we are players. Our chip has been moved into the game. This is our reality. My patriotism has increased as a result of the attacks. We faced something as a nation, and it brought us together. I have three sons, and they may end up going to war. But this our nation. It’s home and the time has come to defend it. I have to do all that I can.”
■ Fears/hopes for the future: “I have flown since that day, but I really believe the attack was only the beginning. There is a desire to destroy us as a nation, and we all have to live with that reality. Nations are going to rise up against nations. I know that it is coming.”