What do you mean what do I mean?: Remembrance

In remembrance or my remembrance, a re-post from a year ago...

No one could ever forget what happened five years ago. As you read this, I ask you not to dwell on the tragedies and devastations that mark this day annually in history, but I humbly request that you join me in celebrating life. When D. Challener Roe began Project 2,996, he inspired thousands of volunteer bloggers by putting the innocent deaths into perspective ~ “Let us honor 9/11 victims by remembering their lives…and not their murderers.” Furthermore, Poet Laureate Andrew Motion expressed, “We cope with loss not by forgetting whoever has been taken from us, but by finding out how we can best live with our memories of them.”

Although many will remember Mr. Moises N. Rivas as one of the many victims of the September 11, 2001 tragedies, let us remember him for what he is most known for. Moises was a father, a husband, a chef, a musician, a singer, a dancer, and a friend to many.

Dreaming of being the next Emeril, Moises’ love for culinary art brought him to Windows on the World. For Moises, the act of serving was his career. As a Windows on the World chef, Moises prepared meals for patrons of the restaurant on the 106th floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. On the morning of September 11, 2001, Moises and 78 other staff-members were preparing breakfast for several large corporate meetings.

“He was a very nice and caring guy. I've known him since he started singing for the Ecuadorian community. He was a very important part of our community. He sang like an angel. He will always be remembered in our hearts as a very good singer, the best husband, the best father, and the best friend. ~ Esther de T.

The night before, Moises was up until 2 A.M. playing slow salsa on his guitar. From Ecuador, Moises immigrated to the “Land of Opportunities” with big dreams. Music was a passion of his; he dreamt of being the next Ricky Martin. In his pursuit, he wrote songs and led an up-and-coming band in Ecuador and the United States with his soulful voice. During a 1995 band performance in Queens, New York, Moises first laid eyes on Elizabeth, a contestant in a local beauty pageant that his band was performing at. Always known to be ambitious and confident, Moises made a $50 bet with a band-member that he could get Elizabeth to go out with him. Two weeks later, they were dating. Within a year, they were married. As some believe, it was love at first sight.

Six years and two children later, Moises’ love for his wife was still as strong as the day he fell in love with Elizabeth. Moises’ last recorded words were like a renewal of vows. As the North Tower became engulfed in flames, he called home and spoke to his stepdaughter, Cristal Barragan.

“He said, ‘tell [Elizabeth] not to worry; I’m OK. Tell her I love her no matter what. I love her.’” ~ Cristal Barragan

Two years after exchanging vows, Moises and Elizabeth had two children. Moises N. Rivas, Junior was 4 and Moesha D. Rivas was 2 at the time they lost their father. Stories were told about how much the 29-year old loved his two children.

“I had the opportunity to work with him in the music business, and he was an excellent group member as well as an exceptional human being. I have a fond memory of one time, when working with his band, side-by-side with my band... I can remember after each song he sang, he would run to the side of the stage to carry his newborn daughter.” ~ Michael Dominguez

Today, I remember Mr. Moises Rivas, a man passionate about life and loved by many. He brought joy to each person in his life, whether it was a closely loved one or an acquaintance. Even though he is not with us today, he continues to touch many ~ including strangers like me. Through recorded interviews and tributes, I have had the honor of getting to know Moises. Although I have never met him, I imagine Moises to be the kind of man who was a true joy and honor to know; his warmth, compassion, sincerity, integrity, and passions were exhibited through each action, whether it was through preparing a meal or strumming a guitar. This tribute does not come close to capturing Moises’ true essence, but my prayer is that others will catch a glimpse and be touched by him so that his legacy lives on. Thank you for joining me in remembering Mr. Rivas and the 2,995 that passed away in the World Trade Center five years ago. As 2,996 volunteer blogger Auntie Lyn said, “Five years is nothing when you measure that loss with love.”

“Moises, you were a wonderful person and I know you made everyone around you happy especially your wife and family.” ~ Sammy and Angel Saez

May each victim rest in peace. May God bless Moises' family and loved ones.

Above is a quilt patch made to keep memories of Moises alive. Photo courtesy of United in Memory 9/11 Victims Memorial Quilt™, Inc.