More than anything, this is a moment of reflection for me, but I would also like to share it with you all:
What has occurred today may, for many of us, be the most historically significant event that will occur in our lifetimes. The impact of this horrific tragedy will be felt for decades, if not generations, to come. Do not underestimate the magnitude of what has unfolded on this day. You will see a new America emerge in the time to come. All of our lives will be changed in ways we cannot yet foresee or comprehend.
As a 22-year-old, I have never witnessed an event that has made me feel so violated, so angered, so frustrated. I've gone through this day with a knot in my stomach. I haven't so much as cracked a smile since I woke up this morning. The images that we bare witness to over the next few days will be imprinted in our conscious minds forever, and understandably so. Pray for the ones who were lost, give thanks for your own well-being; but most importantly go forward with a sense of unity, optimism, and love for your fellow brothers.
I agree with the previous post in that this is a wakeup call for America. We have been too complacent and naive about the possibility of this kind of danger. There will be many changes in the way we think and conduct our lives and country in the future. I do not, however, agree that America needed this. Nobody ever needs something like this. This is the most selfish, cowardly, heinous and evil crime ever committed against any nation in recent years. As with any situation, good will come with the bad. We can have optimism in knowing that in the future we will be a safer, more assertive, and more unified country. We are a strong bunch of people. No person or group will ever crumble the foundations of America. The few days ahead will be filled with sadness, but we must continue to live our lives.
We all compose the fabric of this great nation. Never quit, never feel defeated, never lose hope. We all know that this is the greatest place to live in the entire world and I urge everyone to make that a conscious thought for the next few days. It is this kind of attitude that can eventually dissolve the dark will of our enemies.
Thanks for letting me vent.
-Kevin in AZ
[This message has been edited by ktodd (edited 09-12-2001).]