Promote peace
Osama bin Laden: a name become synonymous with fear, distrust, and hatred. At long last, the name of a deceased criminal. At what a high cost bin Laden’s necessary death has come — not in dollars alone but in human lives lost. Nearly a decade has passed since the heinous attacks of 9/11. In that time, what have we accomplished in the homeland? Are we safer now at home in America than we were on Sept. 10, 2001?
May we reverently take this time to quietly mourn the loss of our servicemen and women who have valiantly offered their lives in defense of freedom. We must extend an olive branch of peace and friendship, rather than the distrust and chaotic disarray which accompany bullets and bombs. Our continued and renewed commitment to the building of schools and hospitals overseas honors our fallen and wounded soldiers.
When we promote religious understanding in our neighborhoods and community, we fight terror locally. Love and compassion must define us as an American people. If we are to win hearts and minds at home and abroad, we must do so with education and kindness.
Benjamin J. Hayford
Vancouver
