Reflections: Wishing for the America of 9-11

By Karen Brewer, Publisher

 

Who else wants back the United States we had on September 11, 2001?

 

What happened to our nation was terrible, but do you remember the way our nation reacted?

 

That very day, the members of Congress — both political parties from the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives — stood united together upon the steps of the U.S. Capitol and sang “God Bless America.” Some joined hands. Some hugged necks. All affirmed that they were united and that they would stand together.

 

United – that was what we were that day and the days that followed.

 

Our country came together.

 

There was a spirit of patriotism, a spirit of unity, a spirit of purpose, a spirit of selflessly wanting to help one’s fellow countrymen.

 

There was respect for those who had placed themselves in harm’s way to try to rescue victims – a respect for all who do that every day.

 

There was a willingness in Americans to do our part, whatever we could, to help each other.

 

We all had one voice – a voice of unity that could not be silenced.

 

Americans were not fighting each other but praying together.

 

There was no division, anger, or hostility toward each other, but, instead, there was unity, love, and compassion.

 

Oh, I wish we had that back.