Do you remember how you felt as the events unfolded and, especially, in the days and weeks immediately afterward? Loss, despair, fear, anger, compassion, love. A concern for others. A willingness and readiness to help people around you. A connection, a real connection to, come to think of it, everyone. The tragedy brought us together.
Still feel that way? I doubt it.
It's been 10 years and I wonder what we've learned. A respect for first-responders. An appreciation for those whose business -- and passion -- is rescue. That we can rebuild (buildings, anyway).
New skyscrapers are rising at Ground Zero. A magnificent memorial honors the dead. Lower Manhattan will again balance the city's skyline with elegance and gravitas.
But, has any of the compassion that existed immediately following the attack remained? Have we come together as a people, as a society? Have we rallied to support those in need here and abroad? Have we become more sensitive, more responsive? Are we stronger? Are we a better nation?
I wonder.
Instead, we remain a country divided. Blue states, red states. Democrats, Republicans. The Tea Party. Christians, Muslims, Jews. North, South. Employed, unemployed. Ethnicity. Healthcare. The right to marry.
Too bad we've missed the opportunity, thus far, to learn the most important 9/11 lesson of them all: That we are better together. Stronger, more resilient, more resourceful. Better. Together.
It's not too late to learn. Say it with me, "Better together."
Good. That's a start.
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