If Words Were MIssiles

NMB, Florida September 17, 2001 A.H.
Schectman

THINKING ALLOWED
Essays on Issues, Ideas and Reflections on the Times. Published Now and
Then. Opinions Pro or Con Are Welcome.

IF WORDS WERE MISSILES

If words were missiles our arsenal would be filled to overflowing and the
paths they cross each other in passing would weave a net of comfort covering
us all. Writing these words have given me an outlet to free me from the
terror the terrorists meant to subject me to and allowed clear thoughts to
rise to the surface.

I have been reading all the flag-waving and comforting stories printed in
the press and on this, my own printer, the many messages crafted by grieving
people trying to express their sorrow and outrage. The events of the last
week caused many to think and rethink "normal" responses to challenges.
Never has a challenge this great been visited upon so many in so brief a
period of time.

My grandson emerged from the subway under the Trade Center just after the
first plane crashed into the first of the Towers. He heard the confusion -
the words "missile" and "bomb" - and the confusion spurred him to leave just
as fast as he could. He and his brother and those working for them were all
safe but their business is in tatters and there is no place to go to work
and to know that tomorrow will make everything all right.

His parents and aunt called to assure us that our grandsons were safe. We
finally were able to talk to Josh last night. We were as anxious as the rest
of America for there are so many stories of relatives, associates and
friends who worked in or near that fabulous business center. Our Rabbi
worked at one time in the Trade Center and knew many of the people who came
under the threat of what happened there. He gave a measured and
heartrending sermon last Friday night concluding with the message that we
must distinguish between those who meant to harm us and those who just
happen to share many of their beliefs.

Our burden grows. Our grief does not lessen. Our resolve strengthens and
our path is chosen. I think our leaders who speak of war speak for all of
us. I do not want to go there but I fear we must. What do you think?
Carol's Evaluation: 9 out of 10. Carol says there are too many of these
stories