As most Americans know, today marks the 7th anniversary of the Attacks of September 11th, 2001. As someone who was living in New York, and working in downtown Manhattan that fateful morning, today is a reminder not only of the horrendous atrocities that happened that day, but also a reminder of how our Nation came together as one.
Democrats and Republicans alike set aside their differences. Citizens of all races, religions, and cultures were simply Americans. Our flag was displayed proudly in just about every home. It was a time of great sadness, but also a time of togetherness not seen in this Country since the attack on Pearl Harbor.
In seven years, we as a Country have relapsed back into the fog in which we were prior to that life-changing day. Many Americans have gone back to their self-interests, and politicians are back at it again with divisive rhetoric. Suffice it to say, as an American, I am disappointed in all of us for delving back into what I consider an unpatriotic stupor.
Every year this time we are reminded of the destruction, the anguish, and the images of September 11, 2001. This year however, I am appalled at the images of that day being used as a political tool. I am appalled that “9/11” has become a trademark for the Republican Party. From John McCain’s so called “Remembrance” video tribute at the Republican National Convention, where image after disturbing image was showed as the narrator intimated just how scared we should be; to Rudy Giuliani using 9/11 in every other sentence. We have been force fed an offense first ideology in an effort to scare America into voting for Bush, and now McCain.
I’m actually pleased that both parties have agreed to suspend the campaign trail to pay respects to all the men, women, and children that lost their lives. Today is a day of remembrance, not another day to use 9/11 as a platform for political agendas.
