The United States government must never be the central character in our hopes for the future. At best, beyond defense, it plays a supporting role. Our job is to see that it plays that role honestly
Perhaps the greatest attribute of the American spirit is that even in the aftershocks of the worst wreckage, we seek to learn. Rather than flounder in horrors that should have never happened, we pursue ways to assure they will not again.
September 11, 2001 provided what may be Americans' greatest opportunity to learn.
In the weeks following 9/11 Americans regained camaraderie and national pride. Race issues receded, government protected groups found less need for protection, American flags waved from car roofs and highway overpasses. The quiet made friends and the typically thoughtless made way for strangers.
