Since the devastating terrorist attack on 9/11/01, many things in the United States have changed. Imagine watching in shock as a gigantic airplane flies into a 110-story building 300 feet in front of you. This is what happened on 9/11 at approximately 8:45am. Three-thousand people lost their lives, along with billions of dollars in damage. Since this dreadful day, whether it was you or someone you know that lost a loved one, everyone has been affected in some way or another. The people of America can be seen being more cautious of their surroundings, kinder to their neighbors, and as a whole, our country is more secure. As you amble down a dark street walking your dog, is there some sort of new awareness of what is around you? When surrounded by people at a big event such as a football game, do you feel the tendency to scan everyone's face searching for a "terrorist"? Don't think of yourself as being different, this is a common feeling of most all Americans since the 9/11 terrorist attack. Some people went as far as purchasing a weapon to protect them and their loved ones. Some attended self defense classes with the fear of someday being attacked or having to use this to regain control over a hijacked airplane. Since this day there has been an obvious change in the obsession for security among all Americans.
Ever think of going to New York and having someone hold, or even open a door for you? Or maybe people saying thank-you and greeting their neighbors with a friendly smile? Although this can now be seen throughout the country, it's a shame that such a great tragedy had to occur to bring Americans together. At the work place it is not uncommon to hear a mother or father calling their children just to let them know that they love them; for the fear is deep inside their stomach that this might be the very last time. An overwhelming existence of American pride can also be seen plastered across tee-shirts, bumper stickers and flying high on flag poles.
