I'm of the opinion that one of the very things that makes us Americans is that we are able move past these types of tragedies and remember them for what they are, which in this case is the great and sometimes terrible price that we pay for our freedom.

I remember 9/11. Am I having a tough time with it? No. I remember that my fellow countrymen paid for my freedom with their blood, and it makes me proud of them and forever grateful. Freedom isn't cheap, and those who pay the price in your stead deserve your pride and respect, not your sorrow or pity (NOT implying that Gale is not prideful or respectful). 9/11 for me is at once both a terrible and great moment in our history. Not only did it demonstrate what freedom costs, it also demonstrated what freedom has made us; virtually indestructible in the face of insurmountable tragedy and loss.

I remember an interview with the wife of a man who had fought back against hijackers. He had called her on the phone moments before taking action. It was an act which inevitably led to the his death. This woman had lost her husband and the father of her child. She wasn't tearful or sad. She was smiling and proud, and it showed through very clearly. That about sums up how I feel, and how I think others should feel.

Stand tall people. Remember 9/11 for testing our mettle, and us having passed the test with flying colors.

Terry Hernlund/General Bracket

----- Original Message -----

From: Gale Draper

Sent: Thursday, September 11, 2003 6:10 AM

Subject: [Az-Geocaching] off topic-9/11

There are no words for this day. Anyone else having a tough time with it?

Tsegi Mike and Desert Viking

9/11 Never Forget