Terrorist Acts on the U.S. Bring Wide Range of Emotions From Around the World
Copyright 2001 by Michelle Jones

As people from all around the world unite in prayer over the recent terrorist attacks on the United States of America, the heartfelt emotions of its people run the gamut. Although a determination has been made to overcome this tragic event with dignity, American citizens are feeling everything from anxiety to anger, with most experiencing many difficult emotions all at once.

What makes this more intense is that human emotions can often contradict each other, such as the common desire for peace in the world but vengeance on the terrorists.  Another example is the painful grief felt for the loss of life while at the same time being relieved one’s own family is safe. This wide range of emotions, disbelief, and anger can be exhausting.

But we are a strong people, a strong nation who has faith in God.  We will overcome this great tragedy that has been inflicted on our country by these barbaric terrorists, and justice will undoubtedly be served.  Whatever the outcome, our spirits and our faith will not be weakened.  For it is in dealing with this wide range of emotions that we realize our full potential as human beings … and maybe most heartwarming, our incredible capacity for giving compassion and assistance, even at the cost of our own lives.

The unknown number of firefighters, police officers and other rescue workers who have apparently lost their lives while trying to rescue people trapped in the World Trade Center adds more salt to the wound.  The emotions that flood our minds from tragedy, destruction and the senseless loss of life are always difficult, and even at times, seem unbearable.

I will never forget the vision of people sobbing in the streets of NYC during and after the fall of the World Trade Center towers, the despair of those looking for lost family and friends, the two firefighters feeling completely helpless and embracing in their grief, and even the outrage of those wanting justice.

How do I explain to my four young children that for the first time in my generation, our country may be at war?

It is pride that causes us to hide our emotions, to desire the world to see only strength and power… but the fact is, our emotions make us human.

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Written by Michelle Jones, founder and editor of Blessings for Life.