Our View: 9/11 changed the world
OUR VIEW – EDITORIAL BOARD OPINION
We all remember 9/11. The members of our editorial board were in elementary school when it happened. We remember when we found out and the different ways we responded. At the time we might not have understood the impact that tragedy would have on us, but our country will never be the same.
We’ve experienced changes in security. We’ve seen a shift in the American public’s attitude toward other countries and regions of the world, especially the Middle East. We’ve noticed changes in the way media respond to and portray reality. We’ve witnessed people searching for answers through religion and philosophy. We’ve noticed a change in ourselves.
Though tragedies in the world are inevitable, each person affected responds differently. We do not know the way for every person to overcome grief generated by events such as these. Some heal by taking action or trying to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Others just need time, and as years pass, the pain fades. We do agree the death of those who perished in the 9/11 attacks should not be in vain.
The passing of those people and any whose lives have been taken at the will of another is devastating. The taking of their lives was unjust and unfair, but we also recognize we can’t wallow in despair forever. When the actions of bad people continue to affect the living, their power grows. We remember with solemnity and respect what happened that day, and we carry on. We believe the world has progressed since that time, but we hope it continues to improve. There are still people who don’t believe in equality or freedom. There are still people figuratively living with blinders on to avoid harsh realities and remain oblivious to injustice.
We hope people here can see what’s most important. We hope we can eventually eliminate ignorance among ourselves and our associates. We are grateful for the freedoms we enjoy as citizens of the United States. We encourage others to take advantage of the opportunities we have here, such as voting, voicing opinions and sharing ideas.
Reflecting on the past can help shape a better future.