Commemorate what?

I did not remember 9/11/2001 on purpose. But early this morning, as I listened to the news and read the front pages, it could not be avoided. Remembering. Commemorating. Honoring.

I am confused. I still am not sure what we are commemorating or honoring. I do remember. I doubt anyone who watched this unspeakable event unfold live on television will ever forget the actual event. I mourn and hurt with those whose loved ones died such a shocking and horrific death, and am still inspired by the reaction of firefighters and policemen who rushed into a collapsing building to try and save lives, many suffering death themselves.

But I don't know what to commemorate. Or honor. Surely the behavior of the terrorists who chose to carry out such an evil plan are not to be commemorated or honored.

What about us? As in we the people, us, you know, the U.S. kind of us? Can we honor and commemorate us?

We have succumbed to fear. We have responded to our worst selves. We have given the terrorists more than they could have possibly dreamed. We gave them the things we cherish, the foundations of who we are. Justice, freedom, fairness, tolerance, openness in government, a shining beacon to the world. All took a hit along with the twin towers. We didn't have to do it, but, because we were encouraged by our leaders to act on our worst impulses, we have terrorized ourselves, and the world, ever since.

In my thinking, September 12, 2001, was more pivotal in history than September 11. On September 12 we had the opportunity to take the world forward in a giant leap. The world was on our side. Most of the world was ready to do what they could to help. A moment that had never happened before, and may not come again for a long, long time was squandered.

We could have acted with wisdom. We could have acted as the Christian nation many hope that we are. We could have taken a step to advance civilization beyond an era that resorts to killing people as a solution to problems. The world looked to us. But we acted out of fear, irresponsibly, stupidly, and with no vision. Slowly the world looked away. The fragile moment gone.

So I don't know what to commemorate. But I do think it is helpful to look back on all these events to help us understand how we who live in this now global community must change the way we act out our citizenship.

The sickest I have felt this presidential election season was when one of the speakers at the RNC made fun of those who think that the right of habeas corpus should be extended to military detainees at Guantanamo and like facilities. The speaker laughed, and the crowd roared with laughter. In moments like these I question whether we deserve the grace that God has given us in this country. Those most amazing of advancements we treat with scourn.

Check another one off for the terrorists. The buildings fell seven years ago, but we are still lost in the smoke.

God bless the USA.




Reflection. Maybe that's the word.