Thread: In Memory of 09-11-2001

I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing for both 9/11 and April 19, 1995 (The bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in OKC). When I was a younger guy, probably early teens, my father told me about where he was when President Kennedy was assassinated -- where he was, what he was doing, who told him -- in vivid detail. I understand that level of recall now.

I remember that day clearly as well. When a friend called me to tell me what happened, I thought she was pulling my leg. After checking the link to CNN news and thinking that somebody must have hacked the site, I tried several CDN and Serbian news sources. Then shock, outrage and a feeling of pity took over. It took a while for me to start thinking rationally again.
At that time, the US administration came up with some words of wisdom (no sarcasm here, just paraphrasing), urging the people not to let the 9/11 attacks to change the way they live, thus letting the terrorists win. Too bad they didn't listen to their own advice.
Since then they curbed all sorts of civil liberties that US citizens used to enjoy, made travelling very difficult and strained foreign relations. Telephone and internet communications are being tapped indiscriminately. Detention and surveilance of honest citizens became much easier. Measures to fight terrorism are being abused by the government to attack citizens who have no connections with any terrorist group. In that sense, the terrorists won with their 9/11 attack.
If I were a US citizen, I'd write to my local equivalent of a MP (member of parliament) to point out that any restriction on American lives in reaction to 9/11 attacks is a victory for the terrorists and that I want my civil liberties back.

I won't take away from this thread by responding to Ilija the way I really really really want to. I will only say that my heart went out to New Yorkers that day and I keep the surviving family members in my prayers.

I second Bill's sentiments on both counts.

Thanks Bill

Let the sun shine upon the sins of man.

amo,
LG Roy

Half a world away and it didn't take away the grief felt.

Gary

I agree with everyone’s opinion is some way or another on this one, but the loss of innocent life should be mourned regardless of all circumstances. The reasons and validity of the 9-11 attacks should be discussed and kept alive on all days but today.

I was at the church where president Bush and the families of the victims met today. A very sad sight. At the same time a tourist attraction which I found even more upsetting, although perhaps I shouldnt...I have mixed feelings about that aspect of it.