We, as a country, were at our best in the months following 9-11. And never was it more evident than in the dichotomy that was shown this past weekend as we acknowledged the tenth anniversary of that horrendous day that is forever etched in our collective memories. (How's that for a slew of cliches?).
On the actual anniversary there were a plethora of television programs and newspaper articles - bringing to life the horror and tension that was September 11, 2001. At church, our Pastor, like many others across the country, tried to put the day into perspective. It was a solemn, though rich, day.
On Monday, there was a direct contrast - a GOP presidential debate. Politics and the creation and celebration of differences.
And it brought back memories of those days and months after 9-11 - when as a country we rallied together. We seemed to understand that there was a lot more at stake than political differences. While there were divergent opinions there seemed to be an acceptance or a willingness to listen. It was a glorious time that lasted until the time when the politician's and pundits began commenting on whether someone was or was not wearing an American flag lapel pin.
We've lost our ability to respect one another's opinions. We've lost our ability to accept compromise. We've lost our ability to be an effective democracy.
Our representatives no longer represent us but instead the party line. We no longer vote for candidates based on their opinions on various issues because their opinions are those of the party and perhaps not their own. We vote for parties - because we have no options. How does that relate to 9-11? It shouldn't . . . but we have made that day and all of it's fall-out and resulting wars a political or party issue. And that day had nothing to do with our politics but everything to do with extremists' perceptions of us.
I don't want to return to the shock and horror of those post 9-11 days, I would like to return to the respect we were able to show one another.
On the actual anniversary there were a plethora of television programs and newspaper articles - bringing to life the horror and tension that was September 11, 2001. At church, our Pastor, like many others across the country, tried to put the day into perspective. It was a solemn, though rich, day.
On Monday, there was a direct contrast - a GOP presidential debate. Politics and the creation and celebration of differences.
And it brought back memories of those days and months after 9-11 - when as a country we rallied together. We seemed to understand that there was a lot more at stake than political differences. While there were divergent opinions there seemed to be an acceptance or a willingness to listen. It was a glorious time that lasted until the time when the politician's and pundits began commenting on whether someone was or was not wearing an American flag lapel pin.
We've lost our ability to respect one another's opinions. We've lost our ability to accept compromise. We've lost our ability to be an effective democracy.
Our representatives no longer represent us but instead the party line. We no longer vote for candidates based on their opinions on various issues because their opinions are those of the party and perhaps not their own. We vote for parties - because we have no options. How does that relate to 9-11? It shouldn't . . . but we have made that day and all of it's fall-out and resulting wars a political or party issue. And that day had nothing to do with our politics but everything to do with extremists' perceptions of us.
I don't want to return to the shock and horror of those post 9-11 days, I would like to return to the respect we were able to show one another.
It would seem like the tragic event was a part of a great plan. To bring the humans of this world together with mutual respect, love and most importantly compassion for our fragile existence.
ReplyDeleteBut then it's as if the switch is flipped and we just go back to "forgetting".
Maybe the phrase should be "Always Re-Member" instead of "Never Forget".
Good thoughts, Lesa!
ReplyDelete