Terrorism Fear, Uncertainty, And Doubt

I’ve heard far too many people claim that “we can never go back” and “things will never be the same” after the attacks last September.

Don’t buy it.

Why should we always be on edge for people who might do us harm? Why should we give up our cherished liberties, our freedom, our trust in each other?

I, for one, do not want to be suspiscious of everyone I meet.

I, for one, do not want to submit to a police state.

I, for one, do not want an even more powerful government.

I, for one, do not think the government can “save us.” Indeed, it is our government which got us here in the first place.

I, for one, find nothing patriotic about waging war.

If you drive a gas guzzling SUV, you’re supporting terrorism. That gas comes courtesy of a corrupt and oppressive Middle Eastern country. And no, sticking an American flag on it doesn’t make it any better.

We can feel safe. We can be safe. We can live as if we have nothing to fear.

Because fear is the underlying cause of all the mistrust in the Middle East, as well as elsewhere. When fear disappears, trust can begin. And trust builds friendship.

I reject fear. I reject war. And I reject the ludicrous notion that this country is on a treadmill it can never get off.