Please note, this is an archived story. Please check the date above.

In the weeks that have passed since September 11 we have heard from many of our friends in England. Just today I received a card from one of my Crumpsall Lane students and her mother. The mother expressed her concern and sympathy for my family and all Americans. She stated that her daughter is very worried about me. She thanked me for making a big impression on her daughter. It touched my heart and tears began to roll again. She is only five years old.

In addition we have received emails, letters, and phone calls from school staff, parents, friends, neighbors, members of Thom’s art group and his rambling mates. All expressing sympathies and concern for us, our loved ones and our country. The love and care that these folks expressed are of great comfort to us.

It was comforting having Tony Blair in attendance when President Bush addressed congress and our nation about September 11.

It is comforting knowing that America is in Manchesters’ thoughts and prayers.

Immediately following the tragedy Councillor Bill Risby wrote to us expressing the following eloquent and caring thoughts.

"Marie and I would like to convey to you our deepest sympathy in the terrible, cruel and mindless attack on your Nation. We sincerely hope that you have no friends or relatives in the vicinity of the attacks but assure you of our prayers and concern in this dark hour. Today was the day of Manchester City Council' meeting in our Town Hall, which you visited, and our Lord Mayor and Chaplain stood with all our Councillors in silent prayer for the victims before the commencement of our meeting. The City has also opened a book of condolence for our citizens to sign and Marie and I were amongst the first to append our names. We are sure that around the world tens of millions of ordinary human beings feel as we do, we just wanted you, as new friends, to know that we share in your pain and distress. Kind regards, Bill and Marie"

We are blessed to have so many wonderful, kind, and caring English citizens to call our friends. All Americans are blessed by your friendship.