Dear Editor,
More than 300 years ago, America was founded on principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Our forefathers overcame a tedious battle to create a nation of unity with diversity. It is now time for Americans to solidify and pursue happiness.
Since the Sept. 11 attack, citizens have remained in a quandary. The disbelief and uncertainty of how and why this has happened to America leaves individuals feeling hopeless. I, a concerned citizen, say it is now time to take a stand.
President Bush expressed, 'Our way of life, our very freedom, came under attack ... we must find those responsible and bring them to justice.' In this time of grief, we must unify our nation and lend a supportive hand. The goal is to quicken our reconstruction and rise above the blues. We are 'the land of the brave.'
It is our moral obligation, as posterity, to increase our lacking selflessness. I applaud the efforts of those volunteers who dedicate their time to aiding the stricken victims of this horrific attack. Those donating blood, providing shelter and food, or offering prayer and spiritual strength understand the necessity of compassion, especially in times such as this.
Although we hate to admit it, the tragedy has opened our eyes to what has been the selfish nature of America. Swept up in self-aggrandizement, we citizens forget those feelings of satisfaction when we give of ourselves.
Ronald Marron stated the United States would be experiencing a 'slowdown in productivity' in the weeks to come. Instead of focusing on this decrease in financial production, we must turn to an increase in humanitarian production. While the physical implications of this disaster are temporary, the mental scar forever. So give a little time and love to help heal the wounds.
Haley Buhler
Provo