The future history books of America will forever reflect the events that took place on September 11th, 2001. The horrific acts that took place affected the entire nation. Although the pain and loss was centered in New York, this act of terrorism has caused much suffering and sadness throughout the country. I was recently faced with answering the question of whether or not I thought this tragedy would permanently change our outlook on the world.
My first thoughts to such a question were that for the most part it would not. We have been through other terrible things, why should this be any different. As you think back to the events of Pearl Harbor, the various wars, and more recently the Oklahoma City bombing, it seems we have gotten through them all and life went on. Perhaps it seems this way to me because I was not around for those events. I am not sure if they changed peoples' outlooks on the world or not, I have never asked anyone. However, I can see how it would impact the way that people may think for awhile. Feelings of being afraid and cautious, along with grief and sadness are normal after such tragedies. I did not feel this particular act would be any different or that it would change our permanent outlook on the world, until today.
Almost a week after the terrorists attacked our country's World Trade Center buildings and the pentagon, the suffering and pain across the nation is still as apparent as it was the day it took place. This particular act of terrorism is proving to affect us in a way I have never seen before and could never have perceived. People are rushing out to help in any way possible. The American Red Cross has received numerous donations to aid in cleanup efforts and support the victims and their families. There have been so many people volunteering to give blood they have asked some to return the following day when they will not be so full. There is even a teddy bear drive going on in our town to go to the victims.
