Yesterday I was on my way home from Canada and traveled through Buffalo International Airport to get home. For the first time, I cooperated and used the new x-ray machine that has sparked so much controversy, my mom refused to go through and the TSA agents were understanding. We grumble going through airport security and question why we must do so. On my way to Canada I saw an old lady in a wheelchair getting stripped down and somehow it seemed unfair. However we comply and move on.
On my way home, I got a phone call from my dad saying to turn on 1010wins (the AM radio news/weather station). I thought the bridge going home was shut down so I asked why, so my dad said 'Osama Bin Laden was captured'...so I hung up with dad and immediately turned on CNN on my satellite radio...I didn't need the dunkin donuts coffee to keep me awake for the rest of the way. I learned that Osama Bin Laden was dead, not captured. I crossed over the Whitestone Bridge and to my left a very clear NYC skyline that put a huge smile on my face. Tears came to my eyes, because it was 1- 10 yrs after 9/11 he got killed 2- We learn about his death on the Feast of St. George. 3-somehow justice is served.
I'm not one to rejoice over someone getting killed...and I dont think that this does much to bring back the 3000 + people who died on 9/11, but it gives us a new focus. Almost 10 years after that fateful day, we have had constant debates if Gitmo should be closed, role of US troops and intelligence, questionable involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan, etc; however last night we were united in that American spirit. I witnessed the joy in Washington, DC the night Obama was elected into presidency, I witnessed all of us when we displayed our patriotism on the days after 9/11...but regardless of political affiliation, last night was for America and a symbolic victory that our country has spent countless hours and taxpayer dollars trying to find.
I thank our United States Military and Intelligence Personnel who have put their lives on the line for our freedom and safety. It is so easy for us to debate their role without a full understanding the danger behind protecting our country. Watching the 9/11 families this morning comment on their feelings...was just something so moving....We will never forget those who perished and we will never forget the efforts to keep our country safe. As we rebuild NYC, the destroyer was killed....we remain vigilant, strong and hopeful for our future.
God bless America +
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