This sacred space near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, provides a place for quiet reflection and remembrance of the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93, who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. The structure serves as a spiritual sanctuary for those directly affected by the tragedy and the countless individuals who visit to pay their respects.
Offering solace and promoting healing, this place of commemoration plays a vital role in preserving the memory of the heroism displayed aboard the flight. It stands as a testament to the courage and selflessness of the individuals who thwarted a planned attack on the U.S. Capitol. The sites proximity to the crash location adds a poignant layer of meaning to the visitor experience, connecting them directly to the events of that day.
Further exploration of the site’s history, design, and impact provides a deeper understanding of its significance within the broader context of the September 11th attacks and the national healing process. Learning about the ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance this sacred space will further underscore the enduring legacy of those honored within its walls.
1. Remembrance
Remembrance forms the cornerstone of the purpose and function of this sacred space near Shanksville. It serves as a tangible embodiment of the ongoing effort to honor the passengers and crew of Flight 93, ensuring their sacrifice and heroism are never forgotten. The act of visiting the site, participating in commemorative services, or simply pausing for quiet reflection contributes to this collective act of remembrance. The presence of artifacts, personal tributes, and historical information further reinforces the importance of remembering those lost on September 11, 2001. For example, the annual reading of the names of the passengers and crew on the anniversary of the attacks serves as a powerful reminder of the individual lives lost.
This dedication to remembrance extends beyond the immediate families and friends of the victims. It encompasses a broader national consciousness, acknowledging the impact of the event on the American psyche and the world. The site provides a focal point for collective grief and healing, promoting a sense of shared experience and national unity in the face of tragedy. The ongoing maintenance and preservation of the grounds and structure underscore the long-term commitment to ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the significance of the events of that day. Educational programs and resources offered at the site further contribute to this understanding.
Cultivating remembrance at this site plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of those aboard Flight 93 and fostering a deeper understanding of the historical context surrounding the attacks. Challenges remain in balancing remembrance with the need for healing and moving forward. However, the continued dedication to honoring the memory of those lost ensures that their stories of courage and selflessness will continue to inspire future generations. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.
2. Reflection
The design and purpose of this space near Shanksville intentionally foster reflection. Its secluded location, away from the bustling pace of everyday life, offers visitors a sanctuary for quiet contemplation. The simple architecture, devoid of ostentatious displays, encourages introspection. The surrounding landscape, a poignant reminder of the events of that day, further enhances the meditative atmosphere. This emphasis on reflection provides visitors an opportunity to process complex emotions, contemplate the meaning of sacrifice, and honor the memory of those lost on Flight 93. The act of reflection connects individuals to the broader human experience of grief, loss, and resilience in the face of tragedy. For example, the quiet simplicity of the chapel’s interior allows visitors to connect with their thoughts and emotions without distraction.
Facilitating reflection serves as a crucial component of the healing process, both for individuals directly affected by the tragedy and for the wider community. The opportunity to reflect on the events of September 11th, the lives lost, and the acts of heroism can lead to a deeper understanding of the event’s lasting impact. This understanding can foster empathy, compassion, and a renewed appreciation for the importance of unity and resilience. The ability to reflect within a dedicated space like this chapel acknowledges the profound emotional and spiritual impact of the tragedy, offering a pathway towards healing and reconciliation. Public memorials often incorporate design elements that encourage reflection, such as water features or quiet gardens, recognizing the importance of providing spaces for contemplation and remembrance.
The power of reflection within this memorial context underscores the importance of providing spaces that encourage contemplation and remembrance. By facilitating personal reflection, the space contributes to individual and collective healing, promoting a sense of shared experience and national unity. While the act of reflection can be deeply personal and vary among individuals, the site provides a shared environment conducive to thoughtful contemplation of loss, heroism, and resilience. The ongoing challenge lies in ensuring that these spaces remain accessible and relevant to future generations, continuing to foster reflection and understanding of the historical and emotional significance of the events of September 11th.
3. Sacred Space
The designation of the area near Shanksville as sacred space stems from the profound loss of life and the extraordinary acts of courage that occurred there on September 11, 2001. The ground itself, where Flight 93 crashed, became hallowed through the sacrifice of the passengers and crew. This inherent sacredness extends to the surrounding area, including the memorial chapel, imbuing it with a sense of reverence and solemnity. The tangible connection to the event transforms the site into a place for contemplation, remembrance, and spiritual solace. This understanding shapes the design, function, and visitor experience, fostering an atmosphere of respect and quiet reflection. Similar designations of sacred space exist at other sites of tragedy, such as the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, demonstrating the human need to create dedicated spaces for remembrance and healing.
The chapel’s function as sacred space is multifaceted. It provides a physical location for individuals to mourn the loss of loved ones, honor their heroism, and find comfort in shared grief. The act of visiting the chapel becomes a pilgrimage of sorts, a journey to a place imbued with profound meaning. The quiet simplicity of the architecture, the surrounding natural beauty, and the proximity to the crash site all contribute to the sense of reverence. The chapel serves not as a traditional religious structure, but rather as a sanctuary for individuals of all faiths and backgrounds to connect with the spiritual dimensions of loss, grief, and resilience. This inclusivity underscores the universality of human experience in the face of tragedy.
Recognizing the area near Shanksville as sacred space acknowledges the profound impact of the events of September 11th and the enduring legacy of those who perished on Flight 93. This understanding informs the ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the site, ensuring its continued availability as a place for remembrance, reflection, and healing for generations to come. The challenge lies in maintaining the delicate balance between preserving the sacred nature of the site while also ensuring accessibility and relevance to an evolving society. The ongoing dialogue surrounding memorialization and remembrance underscores the importance of these sacred spaces in the national healing process.
4. Near crash site
The proximity of the chapel to the Flight 93 crash site forms a crucial element of its significance. Locating the chapel near the final resting place of the passengers and crew creates a tangible connection to the events of September 11, 2001. This physical closeness amplifies the emotional impact of the space, fostering a deeper sense of reverence and reflection. The deliberate placement reinforces the chapel’s role as a place of remembrance and mourning, directly linking the act of commemoration to the site of the tragedy. For example, the ability to see the crash site from the chapel grounds provides a powerful visual reminder of the events that unfolded, enhancing the visitor experience and deepening understanding.
This geographic relationship underscores the importance of place in the process of grieving and healing. The nearness of the chapel to the crash site offers visitors a sense of immediacy, connecting them directly to the location where the passengers and crew made their final stand. This palpable connection strengthens the emotional resonance of the memorial, fostering a sense of shared experience and national unity. The careful integration of the chapel into the surrounding landscape further enhances this connection, creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and human-made commemoration. The design of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, incorporating the original footprints of the Twin Towers, similarly demonstrates the power of place in memorialization.
Understanding the significance of the chapel’s location near the crash site provides critical context for appreciating its role in the broader narrative of September 11th. This proximity transforms the chapel into more than just a building; it becomes a focal point for remembrance, reflection, and healing. The ongoing challenge lies in balancing the need for accessibility with the preservation of the site’s sanctity and historical integrity. Ensuring that future generations understand the importance of this location remains crucial to preserving the legacy of Flight 93 and the enduring lessons of that day. The continued development of educational programs and interpretive materials at the site will further enhance visitor understanding of the chapel’s significance within the broader historical context.
5. Honoring Heroes
The Flight 93 National Memorial, including its chapel, stands as a powerful testament to the heroism displayed by the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. Their courageous actions, thwarting a planned attack on the U.S. Capitol, exemplify extraordinary bravery and selflessness. The memorial serves as a physical embodiment of national gratitude, providing a dedicated space to honor their sacrifice and ensure their legacy endures. The act of remembering and honoring these individuals reinforces core values of courage, resilience, and unity in the face of adversity. For example, the Wall of Names, listing each passenger and crew member, personalizes the loss and emphasizes the individual acts of heroism that contributed to the collective effort.
The memorial’s emphasis on honoring heroes extends beyond individual recognition. It acknowledges the collective heroism of ordinary citizens who, in a moment of crisis, acted with extraordinary bravery. This recognition fosters a sense of shared national identity and strengthens the resolve to uphold the values these individuals represented. Educational programs and interpretive exhibits at the memorial provide context for understanding the events of that day and the significance of the passengers’ and crew’s actions. This educational component ensures that future generations learn about their heroism and its lasting impact on the nation. The memorial’s design, incorporating elements such as the Field of Honor and the Tower of Voices, further symbolizes the collective strength and resilience born from tragedy.
Honoring heroes at the Flight 93 National Memorial serves a crucial function in the ongoing process of healing and national recovery. It provides a focal point for collective grief, offering solace and inspiration to those directly affected by the tragedy and the broader community. The act of honoring these individuals reinforces the importance of courage, selflessness, and unity in times of adversity. The challenge lies in ensuring that this message of heroism continues to resonate with future generations, inspiring them to uphold the values demonstrated by the passengers and crew of Flight 93. Preserving and enhancing the memorial, supporting educational initiatives, and fostering ongoing dialogue about the events of September 11th remain vital to fulfilling this mission.
6. Spiritual Solace
The Flight 93 National Memorial, encompassing the chapel, provides a unique environment for spiritual solace. While not affiliated with any specific religion, the space offers a sanctuary for individuals seeking comfort, reflection, and connection in the aftermath of profound loss. The quiet serenity of the chapel’s interior, coupled with its proximity to the crash site, fosters an atmosphere conducive to introspection and spiritual healing. This solace stems from the tangible connection to the site of tragedy, offering a place where grief can be acknowledged and processed. The act of visiting the memorial can be a deeply personal spiritual experience, offering a sense of peace and closure. For example, individuals may find solace in prayer, meditation, or simply quiet contemplation within the chapel’s walls. The non-denominational nature of the space ensures its accessibility to people of all faiths and beliefs seeking spiritual comfort.
The importance of spiritual solace as a component of the Flight 93 National Memorial stems from the recognition that healing from trauma involves not only emotional and psychological recovery but also spiritual reconciliation. The memorial provides a dedicated space for individuals to grapple with profound questions of life, loss, and meaning. This opportunity for spiritual reflection can be a crucial element in the healing process, providing a sense of purpose and resilience in the face of adversity. The memorial’s design, incorporating elements such as the Wall of Names and the Field of Honor, further enhances the spiritual dimension of the visitor experience. These features personalize the loss, fostering empathy and connection with the individuals who perished on Flight 93. The presence of memorial services, often incorporating music, poetry, and moments of silence, further contributes to the atmosphere of spiritual solace.
Understanding the significance of spiritual solace at the Flight 93 National Memorial underscores the importance of providing spaces that address the multifaceted needs of individuals coping with grief and trauma. The memorial, with its chapel at its heart, offers a sanctuary for spiritual healing, fostering resilience and remembrance. The ongoing challenge lies in maintaining the delicate balance between respecting the deeply personal nature of spiritual experience and ensuring the accessibility and inclusivity of the space for all who seek comfort. Continuing to provide resources and programs that support spiritual well-being remains vital to the memorial’s mission of honoring the victims of Flight 93 and fostering healing in the broader community. Further research into the role of spiritual solace in trauma recovery could inform the development of future memorial spaces and enhance support services for those affected by tragedy.
7. National Memorial
The Flight 93 Memorial Chapel stands as an integral component of the broader Flight 93 National Memorial. Designated as a national memorial by the United States Congress, the site holds profound significance within the national narrative of September 11, 2001. Understanding this designation requires exploring its various facets, revealing the chapels role within the larger memorial context.
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Commemoration and Remembrance
National memorials serve as designated spaces for commemorating significant historical events and honoring those affected. The Flight 93 National Memorial, including the chapel, fulfills this purpose by providing a dedicated space for remembering the passengers and crew who lost their lives. The memorial landscape, incorporating the crash site, the Wall of Names, and the chapel, creates a powerful setting for collective mourning and remembrance. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, for instance, similarly serves as a place for national remembrance and reflection. The chapel contributes to this commemorative function by offering a place for quiet contemplation and spiritual solace.
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Historical Significance and Education
National memorials play a crucial role in preserving historical narratives and educating future generations. The Flight 93 National Memorial interprets the events of September 11th, highlighting the passengers and crews heroic actions. Educational programs and interpretive exhibits provide context, ensuring that the story of Flight 93 remains accessible and relevant. Similar to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, the Flight 93 site educates visitors about a pivotal moment in American history. The chapel contributes to this educational mission by fostering reflection and contemplation of the events and their lasting impact.
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National Unity and Healing
National memorials often serve as focal points for national unity and healing in the aftermath of tragedy. The Flight 93 National Memorial provides a shared space for collective grieving and remembrance, fostering a sense of national community. The memorial’s design, incorporating elements of both remembrance and hope, promotes healing and resilience. The Oklahoma City National Memorial similarly provides a space for national healing and reflection. The chapel, with its emphasis on spiritual solace, directly contributes to this healing process by offering a sanctuary for quiet reflection and contemplation.
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Preservation and Stewardship
National memorial status confers a responsibility for long-term preservation and stewardship. The National Park Service manages the Flight 93 National Memorial, ensuring its protection and accessibility for future generations. This commitment to preservation guarantees that the site remains a place of remembrance, reflection, and education. The Gettysburg National Military Park exemplifies this commitment to preserving nationally significant sites. The chapel, as part of the larger memorial, benefits from this ongoing preservation and stewardship, ensuring its continued availability as a place of spiritual solace.
These interconnected facets of the national memorial designation underscore the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel’s significance within the broader context of September 11th remembrance and national healing. The chapel’s role as a place of spiritual solace, reflection, and commemoration aligns seamlessly with the larger memorials mission. The ongoing commitment to preservation and education ensures that the chapel, along with the entire memorial, continues to serve its vital function in the national narrative for generations to come.
8. Architectural Simplicity
Architectural simplicity defines the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel, intentionally fostering an atmosphere of reverence and reflection. The understated design, devoid of ornamentation and elaborate detail, directs attention inward, encouraging contemplation and introspection. Natural materials, such as wood and stone, create a sense of warmth and connection to the surrounding landscape. The absence of visual distractions allows visitors to focus on their emotional and spiritual experience, facilitating personal connection with the memorial’s purpose. This minimalist approach echoes the design of other memorial spaces, such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, where simplicity amplifies the emotional impact. The unadorned concrete walls of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, etched with the names of fallen soldiers, similarly create a powerful space for reflection and remembrance.
The chapel’s simple design serves several crucial functions. It creates a sense of peace and tranquility, offering respite from the outside world. The lack of visual clutter allows visitors to process complex emotions without distraction. The emphasis on natural light and open space fosters a connection to the surrounding environment, integrating the memorial into the landscape. This architectural approach recognizes that the emotional weight of the site requires a space that supports quiet contemplation rather than grand pronouncements. The chapel’s design prioritizes the visitor experience, providing a sanctuary for personal reflection and spiritual solace. The use of natural materials and simple forms creates a welcoming and inclusive space, accessible to individuals of all backgrounds. Similar design principles are evident in the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, where the reflecting pools, surrounded by simple granite parapets, offer a space for quiet contemplation and remembrance.
The architectural simplicity of the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel underscores the power of understated design in creating spaces for remembrance and reflection. By prioritizing emotional impact over visual grandeur, the chapel offers visitors a sanctuary for personal connection and spiritual solace. This design choice acknowledges the profound significance of the site and the need for a space that supports quiet contemplation and healing. The ongoing challenge lies in maintaining the delicate balance between simplicity and accessibility, ensuring the chapel remains a welcoming and meaningful space for all who visit. Further exploration of the relationship between architecture and emotional experience in memorial spaces could inform the design of future memorials and enhance our understanding of how architecture can facilitate healing and remembrance.
9. Visitor Experience
Visitor experience at the Flight 93 National Memorial, encompassing the chapel, constitutes a multifaceted interaction shaped by the site’s history, design, and symbolic significance. Understanding this experience requires examining its key components, recognizing their interplay in shaping individual responses and fostering collective remembrance.
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Emotional Impact
The emotional impact of visiting the Flight 93 National Memorial, including the chapel, constitutes a central aspect of the visitor experience. The site’s inherent connection to loss, grief, and heroism evokes strong emotions, ranging from sadness and reflection to admiration and resilience. Witnessing the crash site, reading the names on the Wall of Names, or experiencing the quiet serenity of the chapel can profoundly affect visitors. Similar emotional responses are often observed at other sites of tragedy, such as the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, highlighting the universality of human experience in the face of profound loss. The memorial’s design acknowledges and accommodates these emotional responses, providing spaces for quiet contemplation and reflection. The chapel, in particular, offers a sanctuary for processing complex emotions and finding spiritual solace.
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Interpretive Understanding
Interpretive understanding plays a vital role in shaping visitor experience at the Flight 93 National Memorial. Exhibits, ranger programs, and educational materials provide context for the events of September 11th, enhancing visitor comprehension of the site’s historical significance. Learning about the passengers’ and crew’s heroic actions adds a layer of meaning to the experience, fostering admiration and respect. Effective interpretive strategies, similar to those employed at national parks and historical sites, enhance visitor engagement and promote deeper understanding. The chapel, within this interpretive framework, serves as a space for reflection on the human impact of the tragedy and the enduring legacy of those lost.
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Personal Connection
Personal connection forms a crucial element of the visitor experience at the Flight 93 National Memorial. While the site commemorates a national tragedy, individual visitors often forge personal connections to the story of Flight 93. These connections may stem from personal experiences with loss, admiration for the passengers’ and crew’s courage, or a desire to connect with a pivotal moment in American history. Memorial design elements, such as the Wall of Names and the personal tributes left at the site, facilitate these personal connections. The chapel, with its quiet and contemplative atmosphere, provides a space for individuals to reflect on the personal meaning of the memorial and its message of resilience. Similar opportunities for personal connection exist at other memorial sites, such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, where personal artifacts and stories connect visitors to the human dimension of the tragedy.
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Collective Remembrance
Collective remembrance forms a cornerstone of the visitor experience at the Flight 93 National Memorial. The act of visiting the site, participating in memorial services, or simply pausing for quiet reflection becomes a shared experience, fostering a sense of national unity and collective mourning. The memorial’s design encourages this collective remembrance, providing spaces for gathering, reflection, and commemoration. The chapel, within this context, serves as a shared space for spiritual solace and collective contemplation of the events of September 11th. Similar expressions of collective remembrance occur at national cemeteries and war memorials, underscoring the importance of shared spaces for honoring those lost and fostering national unity.
These interconnected facets of the visitor experience intertwine to create a powerful and meaningful encounter with the Flight 93 National Memorial. The emotional impact, interpretive understanding, personal connection, and collective remembrance combine to shape individual responses and contribute to the memorial’s ongoing role as a place of healing, remembrance, and national unity. The chapel, as an integral part of the memorial landscape, plays a crucial role in facilitating these experiences, offering a sanctuary for reflection, solace, and contemplation within the broader context of the Flight 93 story.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Flight 93 National Memorial’s chapel, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: What is the purpose of the chapel at the Flight 93 National Memorial?
The chapel serves as a place for quiet reflection and contemplation, offering spiritual solace to visitors. While non-denominational, it provides a space for individuals of all faiths and backgrounds to connect with the profound emotional and spiritual dimensions of the site.
Question 2: Is the chapel located at the actual crash site of Flight 93?
The chapel is located near, but not directly at, the crash site. Its proximity allows visitors to experience a tangible connection to the events of September 11th while maintaining the sanctity of the actual impact area.
Question 3: Are there religious services held in the chapel?
While the chapel provides a space for spiritual reflection, regularly scheduled religious services are not typically held. The space remains open for individual prayer, meditation, and contemplation. Special services may be organized for commemorative events.
Question 4: Is there a fee to visit the chapel?
There is no fee to visit the chapel or the Flight 93 National Memorial grounds. The memorial remains open to the public, offering a space for remembrance and reflection accessible to all.
Question 5: What is the significance of the chapel’s design?
The chapel’s simple, understated design intentionally fosters an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation. The use of natural materials and the absence of ornamentation encourage introspection and personal connection with the memorial’s purpose.
Question 6: How does the chapel contribute to the overall visitor experience at the Flight 93 National Memorial?
The chapel complements the other memorial elements by providing a dedicated space for quiet reflection and spiritual solace. It offers visitors an opportunity to process complex emotions, connect with the spiritual dimensions of loss and remembrance, and find comfort in a peaceful setting.
Understanding these frequently asked questions enhances visitor preparedness and fosters a deeper appreciation for the chapel’s role within the Flight 93 National Memorial.
Further exploration of visitor resources, memorial history, and ongoing commemorative efforts provides additional context and understanding.
Visiting the Flight 93 National Memorial
Careful planning enhances visits to the Flight 93 National Memorial, ensuring a respectful and meaningful experience. The following tips offer guidance for visitors.
Tip 1: Allocate Sufficient Time: Adequate time allows for thoughtful exploration of the entire memorial, including the chapel, the Wall of Names, and the crash site overlook. Rushing detracts from the experience.
Tip 2: Review Historical Information Beforehand: Understanding the events of September 11th and the story of Flight 93 enriches the visit. Pre-visit research provides context and deepens appreciation for the memorial’s significance.
Tip 3: Dress Respectfully: Attire should reflect the solemnity of the site. Casual clothing is acceptable, but overly revealing or provocative attire is discouraged.
Tip 4: Maintain a Respectful Demeanor: Quiet voices and respectful behavior demonstrate consideration for others and the sanctity of the memorial. Avoid disruptive activities or loud conversations.
Tip 5: Engage with Interpretive Resources: Ranger programs, exhibits, and audio tours provide valuable insights into the memorial’s history and significance. Engaging with these resources enhances understanding.
Tip 6: Reflect on the Meaning of the Memorial: Take time for quiet contemplation and personal reflection on the events of September 11th and the heroism displayed on Flight 93. The memorial provides a space for personal connection and remembrance.
Tip 7: Utilize Available Visitor Amenities: Restrooms, water fountains, and seating areas are available for visitor comfort. Planning breaks ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Following these suggestions allows individuals to experience the Flight 93 National Memorial thoughtfully and respectfully, maximizing personal connection and promoting collective remembrance.
Through thoughtful planning and engagement, visitors honor the legacy of Flight 93 and contribute to the memorial’s ongoing mission of remembrance and healing.
Conclusion
Exploration of the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel reveals its multifaceted significance as a place of remembrance, reflection, and spiritual solace. Located near the hallowed ground where Flight 93 met its tragic end, the chapel offers visitors a tangible connection to the events of September 11, 2001. Its architectural simplicity fosters introspection, while its proximity to the crash site amplifies the emotional impact. The chapel’s role within the broader Flight 93 National Memorial underscores its importance in honoring the heroism of the passengers and crew, providing a space for national mourning and healing. The careful consideration given to visitor experience ensures that the chapel serves its intended purpose as a sanctuary for contemplation and remembrance.
The Flight 93 Memorial Chapel stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit, embodying resilience, courage, and unity in the face of profound loss. Continued support for the memorial ensures future generations learn from the events of September 11th and draw inspiration from the heroism displayed aboard Flight 93. Preserving this sacred space safeguards a vital piece of national history and offers a lasting tribute to those whose lives were tragically cut short. The ongoing challenge lies in ensuring that the memorial remains relevant and accessible to future generations, perpetuating the memory of those lost and the lessons learned.
