9/11... Never Forget

Six years. That's how long it's been, as of today, since the horrible tragedy that shook not only our nation, but the very foundations of the world around us. On that fateful day in 2001, we watched in horror as hundreds of lives were snuffed out, never again to enjoy the freedom that makes our country the shining bastion of hope that it has become. On that day six years ago, we experienced tragedy like we had never known, fear that we had never dreamed was possible, and despair which in our 200 year history has never been rivaled.

But we experienced something else that day, too. Amidst the chaos and the terror that followed in the wake of those terrible attacks, we as Americans pulled together like never before. Suddenly, if only for a short moment in the grand scheme of things, we experienced true unity. There was no black, there was no white; there was no young, there was no old; there was no rich, and there was no poor. On that day in 2001, we dropped our petty bullshit and became Americans. A nation of patriots arose from the rubble.

But where are we now? We remember the lives lost that day; we respect and honor those who gave their lives to help others. The events of September 11 will never be forgotten. Today we honor these people and their families, but where is the unity? If the 9/11 attacks taught us anything, it is that underneath it all, we are all Americans. That is what we seem to have forgotten. Six years of peace have made us lax. Six years of a terrorist threat level that never falls below orange (thanks for that, Fox News) have made us feel invincible again. Six years of security have brought all of the old prejudices and animosities to the surface again. And after six years, it seems that the only thing that unites us these days is an almost universal disdain for our "president" and his "policies."

So, in the intervening time, what have we accomplished? We have "liberated" Iraq, while at the same time helping to consolidate the power of Iran. We are no closer to finding Osama bin Laden than we were six years ago, Saudi Arabia is still considered a friend, (15 of the 19 9/11 highjackers were Saudis, in case you forgot) and gas prices have more than doubled. I don't know about you, but when I get excited because gas is less than three dollars a gallon, it is a hollow feeling indeed.

Meanwhile, our country is falling apart. Our economy is in the crapper, our education and healthcare systems are falling behind, and due partly to these issues, our crime rate is at an all time high.

I don't mean to sound unpatriotic. I love America. I love our freedom to speak our mind, to defend ourselves, and to worship (or not) as we see fit. But with these freedoms comes responsibility. Saint Francis of Assisi once said, "Speak the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words." Regardless of your beliefs, or lack thereof, this sentiment, and the meaning behind it, is universal. In order to truly bring light to the world, we must lead by example, not by force. We must once again band together as Americans, not in the face of tragedy, but out of sheer love for our country and respect for our fellow man. That is what this country was built on. That is what thousands have fought and died for, and all of this internal strife dishonors the memories of those brave men and women.

It is time to put aside our differences and recognize that we are all American. Just a few random acts of kindness can change the world. In these strange times, these times of great change, we should lay to rest our prejudices and throw our lots in together. If we don't, we face far greater hardships ahead.

Until next time,

Clay