The death of terror
May 2nd, 2011 by Regina Brett
The announcement took us by surprise. So did my reaction.
Osama Bin Laden had been killed by U.S. forces in Pakistan. The president never looked more presidential as he made the announcement last night on TV.
At first I felt elated. The man who masterminded the attack on our country and other countries around the world was dead. Hurray!
Then I felt a surge of patriotism. God bless the USA!
But when I saw footage of youthful Americans dancing and cheering in the streets of New York City and Washington D.C., it didn't seem right.
A stillness came over me that hasn't left.
I can't celebrate the death of any human being, no matter how heinous their crimes, no matter how many victims they murdered, no matter what destruction they leveled. I'm glad that we stopped this man from harming any more people, but I can't cheer his death.
What do we do? What is a respectful response to his death? What is the best way to remember all those who lost their lives in terrorist attacks and in this war on terrorism?
I think we're all called to pray for peace, that peace that surpasses all understanding.
Comments (3)
Carolyn — May 22nd, 2011 (12:20)
Our culture reveals its lack of class decency by reacting so vilely to a report such as this. Sorrow repentance for not promoting peace is a better response. I just finished your book it was so uplifting. Thank you.
Leslie — May 15th, 2011 (06:13)
Thank you, Regina. I had the same response you did.
Kathy — May 3rd, 2011 (10:23)
Your post reflects my thoughts on the subject (almost to the letter.) I wish I had the answer as well. I couldn t help but think about the forgiveness exibited by Pope John Paul II. For my small contribution, I will continue to pray for peace in our world.
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