Three years after the vicious attacks on our great country, I must ask, where have all the flags gone? After Sept. 11, 2001, Americans adorned their cars with patriotic paraphernalia, flags, stickers and anything to reflect their pride to be an American.
All of a sudden being an American became a major fashion statement, and one must question if it is currently out of style.
As the third anniversary of Sept. 11 passed last weekend and the presidential election is just months away, it appears as if the trend has made its way back. The seesaw pattern of political arguments continues between parties, and the current discussion of 9/11 appears to be more of a political fascination than of a national remembrance for those who died.
Does the intensity of pain only linger for those who are in a fifty-mile radius of the terrorist attacks? Personally affected by the loss of a family member in Tower II of the World Trade Center, I still endure the pain and quarrel with my memory of that day.
But as our memories may only be silent reveries, our pride to be American does not have to be muted until a national tragedy occurs or until its yearly anniversary arrives. We must respect 9/11 for the signals that it alone sends and not allow the tragedy to be transformed into opportunistic capitalism or shallow political discussion. We all have choices, and it is with the choices we make and risks we take that we determine our destiny.
Life before 9/11 is a time we will never know again, and some have viewed that day as the obstacle in the path of the weak and cowardly. However, in the end, it was reality and has become the stepping stone in the path for the strong and courageous. Our glory as Americans will always come from the dare to be there for each other and continues to hold true through our stronghold in the military, valiant police officers and courageous fire fighters.
If it were not for the past, we would not be molded into the people we are today. As our soldiers continue to fight for our freedom and against terrorism, it is our time to show continued support as Americans. I ask you, do not forget the past. Time slips away so easily, and all we are left with is yesterday. For many, the memories of the terrorist attacks have faded to gray from red, white and blue, but we must never forget the impact of Sept. 11 regardless of how you plan to vote in November.
I ask you to put those American flag decals back on your car and to fly those flags high. Mark your calendar to make a difference on November 2, Election Day. Wear those patriotic t-shirts and socks, but wear them for the right reason. Be proud to be American. Wear your heart on your sleeve, but also wear America in your heart.
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