Ten Years Later

Arroyo, a photo by Wayne-K on Flickr.

Today had a somber feel to it. The morning sun struggled to sneak past the cloud cover, unusual for summers in the Bay Area. The neighborhood seemed quieter today and the temperatures cooler.

I can't believe it's been ten years since the jetliners struck the Twin Towers. The country came together that day and united. American flags dotted the landscape, showing pride in the red, white, and blue.

Where are we, ten years later? Bin Laden is dead, but are we a better nation? Are we better people?

As I looked out my window, I didn't see Old Glory flying anywhere. Have the patriotism and national pride dissipated?

As I read the newspaper, I didn't see our politicians working together toward a common good. Have we lost our sense of unity? Is towing the party line more important than working together to do what's best for the country?

The United States is a great country, but let's take the patriotism, unity, and energy demonstrated ten years ago...and make it better.

We can't fix the problems in Washington D.C., but let's make our local communities better. Start with the little things. Hold the door open for someone at the grocery store. Help the elderly lady cross the road. Close your neighbor's garage door when they have forgotten.