As We See It  (editorial)

On September 11, terrorism did not only attack America, but an ideal on which all that we value in American society is based: freedom. Today is not a day of partisanship, or of race, or age, or trade. Today we are one society, infuriated by this attack on something so beloved within our ideology.

This is a time when ALL Americans should gather to support one end, the eradication of this type of cowardice from the world. As members of the Norwich community, the United States, and citizens of the world, it should be our goal in this time of tragedy to unite toward the purpose of bringing justice to those responsible.

As we sit in our seemingly safe corner of the country, there are things we can do to assist in this state of emergency, but it is important to remember that rushing off to the site of disaster may not be most prudent. Rushing to the blood centers of the state to donate may also not be the best thing to do. Widespread panic is the last thing we need amid chaos.

A citizen's contribution may be as simple as bringing a cup of coffee to an exhausted counselor, or offering a shoulder to a friend. It may be standing ready to be called to the disaster site if needed, but staying put if not. One can best assist in times of disaster by allowing those most affected by the tragedy to lean on their strength, by keeping one's head, and trying to carry on as much a sense of normality as possible. Often, the ways in which our contributions would be most helpful are not the ones we can immediately think of.

It is important to remain patient with our leaders, and to have confidence in them. We look to the university leadership to guide our involvement, as we should look to President Bush to guide the nation. We should give our leaders the time and support to determine the appropriate courses of action.

Of these recent events, some things are certain. America is not on its knees. We will prevail and see justice done. We will unite in strength against this foe, and we have the support of our allies. Those who are responsible for this tragedy will not be able to derive satisfaction for their efforts, for we have none to give them. Americans have tremendous untapped strength, and soon the rest of the world will see it.

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