This month marks the fifth anniversary of the horrific attacks on the World Trade Towers, the Pentagon and United 93 flight, which crashed in Pennsylvania.

As we look back on 9/11/01, the Journal is compiling a special series of stories which will examine how we have changed in the years that have passed. We talk with people who originally went to New York, and from others who were affected by the attacks, and we want to hear from you.

In 250 words or less, tell us how your life changed personally. Did you know someone who died on 9/11? Did you offer aid or travel to the East Coast to lend a hand? Did you change your life's mission on that day, or did it just make you and your family more vigilant? Your story is part of what makes this section special.

E-mail stories to thomas.ritchie@lee.net, subject line "9/11", by Thursday, Sept. 7 at noon with your name and a phone number where we can verify your letter. Submissions will be included in our special print edition. Or add your comment to this story below and we will compile the online entries with the story online.