Editorial

The tragic events of Sept. 11 have proven that America is not immune to terrorism. What Americans learn from this catastrophe will define us as a people and shape our country for years. At UH-Clear Lake, thousands of miles away from the devastated sites in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh, each student and faculty member has been affected by the tragedy.

A general somberness swept through campus as wreckage was still being lifted away from the sites in search of survivors. The atria and cafeteria took on a hushed quality, and fewer laughs were heard throughout the halls. Students still gather around television sets waiting for news or declarations of war.

One lesson we have learned is that personal problems are quickly put into perspective. As each news bulletin came to us, the speeding ticket, the failed test and the over-due bill became insignificant. Problems we had experienced with our loved ones disappeared as we pulled them closer and appreciated the simple fact that they were there, and we could hold them.

Another lesson we have learned is that patriotism is still alive. Change sometimes occurs during a long period of time, and sometimes, in minutes. U.S. patriotism, which has been hibernating, was renewed in most Americans within the span of a day. We tend to view patriotism as a word that is heard on the Fourth of July. The meaning has gotten lost somewhere along the way because of the general peaceful situation we have been privileged to live with for years.

This tragedy sparked patriotism that is leading us to renew our interest in the U.S. flag, a symbol of our freedom. Citizens have virtually emptied stores' shelves of flags in their eagerness to display their rekindled love of country.

We have learned that as a nation we can become more unified. We may not unite in every situation, but most people are united in their compassion for those who have experienced this tragedy first-hand. Even most political leaders are throwing out their partisan ties and standing as one behind the president.

The United States is not a divided group of states, but a nation that should stand as one against threats to our freedom and beliefs. Our unity is evidenced by efforts across the United States, through blood drives, monetary and material donations, general support and volunteerism. Although the nation is beginning to come together, we have to be careful not to become suspicious of people's differences. Judging others by their ethnicity or religion fosters the same prejudice exhibited by the terrorists who attacked our nation.

As the initial shock of Sept. 11 wears thin, people are left with emotions of confusion, anger, despair and sadness. Through our compassion and improved patriotism, let us all come together to support those who are suffering. Care should be taken so that we are not guided by anger in the future weeks as decisions are being made. As the nation continues to recover and shows the world that terrorism will not be tolerated, we need to be careful not to forget the lessons we have learned.

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