Reply #41: It seems that we agree on all points.

[NanceGreggs]

My musings in the OP were simply about the fact that we were at our best as Americans on that day. I think most Americans are truly decent people.

My recollections of 9-11 will always be the courage and decency of my fellow citizens. I've never heard a single story about a firefighter or NYC cop who ran into the WTC saying, "I'm here to save the white people, or the Christians, or the Republicans only." No anecdotal tales about people giving blood and saying, "Make sure this doesn't go to some gay guy."

We, as individuals and as a nation, are capable of great things. But, as you've said, under a Bush or a Hitler, we are equally capable of madness.

I just want to remember the greatness of that day, the unity, the sense of family - it reminds me that underneath all the garbage, the political rhetoric, the bigotry, the in-fighting, we are indeed a pretty remarkable people.

Our ultimate destiny lies in tapping that resource and using it to good purpose. I may be more optimistic than some (all right, than MOST), but I do believe it can be done.

And thanks for all of your replies - I have thoroughly enjoyed this exchange of ideas.

:hi: