Ten Years Later

Ten years later America is a nation divided, divisive. If we can afford air travel we must suffer long lines of indignities only to sit cramped in airless pens. Our journalism has become corporate pandering instead of actual information. Our economy is this thing we stumble through, some of us falling. We are dispirited.

It's not like the Muslim world has it any better. Think of the struggles for Democracy in Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Jordan. Think what Lybian and Syrian citizens are enduring this very moment.

So. Are you a pessimist or an optimist? Did Al Quaeda win or can we turn this thing around?

Maybe it doesn't sound like it, but I'm an optimist.

Meeting each other teaches us about each other. It's a lot harder to fear or hate someone you've shared conversation with over a cup of coffee.

If we can't afford to travel to the Arab world, (or if we're afraid to get on a plane), we can meet our Arab neighbors right here in southern California, starting with the annual Arab American Festival in Garden Grove, September 23-25th. It's free (so the economy is no excuse) and it looks like fun.

Or just...break bread with someone who is different from you.

Here is the best writing I've seen about 9/11, from Roberta Martinez.

Anniversary

I believe in our beautiful America.
I believe in the principles of
freedom of religion,
freedom of the press,
freedom of expression,
and the right of every citizen to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
I believe it's every citizen's duty to take these freedoms seriously and use them wisely, without infringing upon the freedoms of others. I also believe that most Americans share my beliefs.

I believe in the duty of our government officials to uphold our Constitution. I believe our country is going through rough times, financially as well as ideologically. But if we look to these founding principles, to our freedoms and our duties, I believe we will find our answers.