Adam Mayblum

Adam Mayblum: “The Price We Pay” — A Survivor’s Viral Message of Resilience

On September 11, 2001, Adam Mayblum was working on the 87th floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Just below the impact zone of American Airlines Flight 11, Adam’s quick thinking and leadership played a crucial role in saving the lives of many of his colleagues. The next day, he penned a heartfelt email titled “The Price We Pay,” which captured his experiences and reflections on the tragic events. The email quickly went viral, resonating with readers worldwide.

When the plane struck the North Tower, Adam and his team felt the building shudder from the impact. Immediately recognizing the severity of the situation, Adam tore his shirt into strips, soaked them in water, and distributed them to his colleagues as makeshift masks to filter the smoke. With calm resolve, he led a large group of coworkers down the stairwell, navigating through darkness, debris, and uncertainty.

As they descended, Adam recalled the bravery of the firefighters heading upstairs to confront the inferno. He later reflected on their heroism in his email: “With regards to the firemen heading upstairs, I realize that they were going up anyway. But, it hurts to know that I may have made them move quicker to find my friend. Rationally, I know this is not true and that I am not the responsible one. The responsible ones are in hiding somewhere on this planet and damn them for making me feel like this.”

Adam’s words carried a powerful message about resilience and defiance in the face of terror. “But they should know that they failed in terrorizing us. We were calm. Those men and women that went up were heroes in the face of it all.” His email not only honored the selflessness of the first responders but also underscored the collective courage of survivors who refused to let fear define them.

In the years since 9/11, “The Price We Pay” has become an enduring symbol of hope and humanity. Adam’s reflections remind us that even in the darkest moments, acts of kindness, leadership, and bravery shine through. His words challenge us to honor the sacrifices of that day by living with purpose and resilience, ensuring that the legacy of 9/11 remains one of strength and unity.

Adam Mayblum’s story and his viral email continue to inspire, serving as a poignant reminder of the unbreakable human spirit.

Cited sources