Dear students,

　　On September 11, 2001, many Americans lost mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and friends in a national tragedy. Those who knew them are feeling a great loss, and you may be feeling sorrow, fear and confusion as well.

　　I want to reassure you that there are many people — including your family, your teachers, and your school counselors — who are there to listen to you.

　　September 11 changed our world. But with each story of sorrow and pain comes one of hope and courage. As we move forward, all of us have an opportunity to become better people and to learn valuable lessons about heroism, love and compassion.

　　As we mourn those who died, let us remember that as Americans, we can be proud and confident that we live in a country that symbolizes freedom and opportunity to millions throughout the world. Our nation is strong, and our people resilient. We have a well-earned reputation for pulling together in the worst of times to help each other.

　　I send my best wishes and my hope that you will always take care of your family, friends, neighbors and those in need.

　　Sincerely,

　　Laura Bush

　　亲爱的同学们:

　　2001年9月11日，在一次震撼全国的悲剧中，许多美国人失去了父母、兄弟姐妹，还有朋友。那些认识遇难者的人正在经受着无比的伤痛，而你们也许正感到悲伤，恐惧，还有迷茫。

　　我想安慰你们的是，有很多人，包括你们的家人，你们的老师，还有你们学校的顾问，都会在那里耐心地聆听你们的倾述。

　　“9.11”改变了我们的世界。然而每一个悲伤、惨痛的故事后，随之而来的是希望与勇气。我们向前迈进的时候，所有人都有机会变得更好，并且学到有关英雄主义、爱和感情的珍贵的一课。

　　在我们哀悼亡者的同时，让我们记住，作为美国人，我们引以为自豪和自信的是，对世界上几百万人来说，我们生活在一个象征着自由、机遇的国度。我们的国家是强大的，我们的人民是坚韧不拔的。我们有着名符其实的声誉：在最艰难的时候团结起来，相互帮助。

　　我向你们致以最良好的祝愿，祝你们的家人、朋友、邻居及那些需要帮助的人永远安康。

　　你们忠实的

　　劳拉<2022>布什