Gather, reflect and don't waver

Gazette Editorial Board

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Today, at the state capitol and many communities across the state, many Iowans will reflect on the 10th anniversary of 9/11. A National Moment of Remembrance resolution from U.S. senators invites all Americans to pause at noon (Iowa time).

It is fitting to focus our national attention on this milestone and its meaning. We honor those who were lost in the terrorist attacks and during subsequent actions to hold terrorists accountable. We discern what personal and collective lessons to remember and apply. And we must resolve to keep moving ahead - to not let the horrific events of that day haunt our dreams or diminish our efforts to build better tomorrows.

It is right to “Remember, Reflect and Respect,” the title of a gathering scheduled for 2 p.m. today at Cedar Rapids' Veterans Memorial Stadium.

That public event and one scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at Iowa City's City Park are both coordinated by religious coalitions: the Consultation of Religious Communities in Iowa City and the Inter-Religious Council of Linn County in Cedar Rapids. You do not have to be Jewish, Christian, Muslim or of any specific religious denomination to attend. The point is to gather for reasons common to all people, to remind ourselves of how important is it to work out our differences in the best interests of our communities and our nation.

As Rev. Tom Capo recently told a Gazette reporter, quoting a local firefighter who will be at Memorial Stadium today: “When we go to put out a fire, we don't ask people what religion they are.”

Ten years after 9/11, our nation is not free of terrorism. Economic problems and political turmoil at times seem insurmountable. The world seems chaotic, confusing.

Yet we Americans have much to appreciate, much opportunity to yet achieve and prosper. We also have much work to do - and we have the people, resources and freedom to take it on.

Don't waver now.

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