Graphic Staff
Today marks the seventh anniversary of one of the most tragic events in United States history — the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. For our generation in particular, the incident signified an instigation of political awareness and worldly controversy to which we were previously not exposed.
Now, as we reflect on this event that sparked a war still being fought today, Americans should feel almost as harrowed as the moment the first plane hit New York’s World Trade Center in 2001. Yet, while some ceremonies and memorials dedicated to the commemoration of that day still exist, the meaning seems to be lost.
Most Americans can precisely recall the moment the news broke that a plane had crashed into one of the twin towers and three more had been hijacked — the emergence of total chaos at the realization that our national security had been overthrown by terrorist acts.
Amidst the mayhem, though, something else emerged in our country — the one thing that would mend the nation’s newly ruptured seams: unity.
The United States became one. Americans looked to each other for comfort, and we helped in any way we could. That is what defined us, and that is what made us proud to be Americans. So, what has happened to our unity?
Of course, as is the case with virtually everything, the event has grown less meaningful over time. Yet, in this instance, Americans continue to fight and die to protect the freedom that was threatened that day.
It should be expected that we could turn to one another, just as we did then, for restored hope. But, we no longer have that support system, and an insecurity has consequentially befallen us.
There was something about the America that formed on Sept. 11, 2001 that was incredibly endearing. No one, including our nation’s leaders, knew the best way to respond to such a traumatic national event. Yet, our leaders did what they thought was best, and the nation stood behind them in their decision to go to war. Now, Americans stand divided about nearly everything regarding that choice.
In response to this waning patriotism, the Graphic staff would like to commemorate Sept. 11, 2008 — a historic anniversary of true Americanism. So many facets of our nation were affected that day — families who lost loved ones, police officers and firefighters who surpassed the call of duty and the immersion of our fellow citizens into a battle for our country’s liberty.
It is not only disrespectful, but civilly irresponsible to disregard today’s date as just another mark off the calendar. Waving an American flag is not enough — we must remember the meaning underlying the red, white and blue symbol.
It is easy to forget the exact emotions encompassing our personal accounts of that day seven years ago. So today, let us stop and truly remember what it is like to be tested as a nation — and to rise to the challenge.
Several events on-campus today can provide an opportunity for personal reflection and community bonding. 3,000 American flags signifying each of the lives lost on Sept. 11 will be on display in Alumni Park, a brief prayer service will be held at Heroes Garden and former attorney general John Ashcroft will lecture on “Leadership in Challenging Times” at 7:30 p.m. in Smothers Theatre.
As college students, we are influenced by the events of Sept. 11 in a highly unique and ultimately substantial way. For us, the incident signifies more than a national tragedy, but the defining element of our generation’s history pages and a statement about what can be expected of us as Americans.
If we allow ourselves to genuinely reflect upon the implications behind the events of that day, it will be easier to evaluate what is truly important — not the ceremonies, not the politics surrounding the event, not even the war itself.
We need to embrace the unity that our country once had and has now forgotten, for only then will our nation succeed.
09-11-2008