Remember Them With A Smile

I am well aware that what I'm about to talk about is a very touchy subject.  Some may instantly disagree with my words, but I hope everyone will at least take the time to read and think about what I have to say.  I think the United States needs to move on from the 9/11 terrorist attacks.  It was a horrible day in this country's history, to be sure, but continuing to linger on it, year after year, isn't helping anything.  Tomorrow will be the ninth anniversary of the attacks that took place in 2001.  By not moving on from this tragedy I believe we are giving the terrorists exactly what they want.

It's been nine years and memorials, protests, and other inane activities are still being planned.  First, let me make it clear that I am not lumping those who would attend the somber memorials in with the lunatics playing with matches.  I'm also not suggesting that we forget those who died.  I do, however, think we should attempt to move ahead and be that much more driven to succeed in our lives.  The memories of loved ones should not be tarnished by the atrocious acts committed by al-Qaeda.  I can only speak for myself of course, but I know if I had been a victim, I would wish for my family and friends to go out and do something to make them smile instead of mourning my loss every September 11^th.

The groups that attempt to use 9/11 to excuse their reprehensible activities make me sick.  If we resort to violence and protests we are no better than the terrorists.  The memories of 9/11, instead of fueling hatred, should be a sobering reminder that there is already enough violence in the world.  One definition of the word “human” according to dictionary.com is “sympathetic; humane”.  If we are ever to consider ourselves truly human, our first response to violence must not continue to be more violence.  The phrase “fighting for peace” should not exist.  While these human imposters are out there burning copies of the Qur’an and persecuting religions different from their own, real humans are helping others and working towards peace.

I understand the need for us as a nation to pay homage to those we have lost, but instead of tear-filled memorials, perhaps survivors could speak of the good things they have done since the attack.  One person might rise and tell of how he has become the head of his very own successful company.  Another might speak about the volunteer work she has done for the sick or homeless.  Still another person might simply need to say that he has gotten out of bed every morning, planted a garden, or walked his dog.  These things show that the terrorists have not won.  September 11^th was a tragedy, but we can move on.  No act of cowardly violence can stop us from continuing to live and thrive.  I ask that tomorrow the tears be wiped away by smiles and we sing joyfully the fact that we are still here and we are strong.