On September 11, 2001, America suffered its most tragic attack in history. Take time today to remember those who lost their lives and the families they left behind.
The United States of America was attacked September 11, 2001 - and thousands of Americans lost their lives. Their families and our nation have not been, and never will be, the same. The attacks were, of course, masterminded by Osama bin Laden and the Al Qaeda terrorist network, which claimed responsibility for the 2001's day of infamy.
Incredibly, in spite of Al Qaeda's admissions, persistent 9/11 conspiracy theories won't go away. There is little I can say to dissuade those of you who obsessively cling to these theories, except to refer you to what Time magazine (not a pro-George W. Bush publication) has to say on the subject. As Time puts it, these conspiracy theories are based on "circumstantial evidence, facts without analysis or documentation, quotes taken out of context and the scattered testimony of traumatized eyewitnesses." Not to mention a very jaded, cynical, and radical anti-US government mindset.
If we can put these conspiracy theories aside, however, our nation can reflect on those things truly worth remembering and taking to heart on an anniversary such as this.
First, we must never forget the victims of 9/11. Their lives were brutally snuffed out, and they deserve to be remembered.
Second, we must remember their families. It often takes years for people to get through (you never really get "over") the death of a loved one.
And third, let's renew our sense of patriotism that was on such display after 9/11. It was heart-warming to see virtually all 535 members of Congress singing "God Bless America" on the steps of the US Capitol in the days after 9/11. I remember with great fondness the sight of American flags flying off houses, buildings, and cars in a patriotic defiance of our enemies. Let's get back to loving America and not being afraid to show it.
