Archive for Month: September 2013

Twelve years have passed marking the horrible events of 9/11. I have made it a point to comment each year as it passes. One would think that over time, the depth and impact of any event would soften, become more a matter of historical record, and less of an emotional response. I suspect like many of you, like myself felt the day coming on long before it got here. I woke this morning with some measure of sadness, and possibly another level of measure of anger.

Twelve years is a significant period of time to take it all in, digest it, and understand the what, whom, why’s of the matter. Despite all that, despite wanting to be a forgiving member of the human race, it boils my blood as an American that there are those that rejoice in the attack and murder of our innocents. I can understand having positive feelings towards the death of those who commit heinous acts, but to be filled with happiness over the deaths of people that were simply going about their daily lives and in varying measures contributing to the greater good is incomprehensible.

They pick Boston, Bengazi, and wherever to commit these cowardly acts. All without justification are inflicted on innocent people. This is done in the absence of honor, heroism, duty to county. It is nothing short of a religious genocide against all non-believers. It is a scourge upon the human race. It is a twisted radical view to think that you must convert all people to your beliefs or kill them.

My anger in this is rooted partly in my ignorance. I was raised by very hard working and loving parents just like many of you. It is/was a blessing, and I never forget that. I was taught to gauge people for their actions, what they choose to do or not to do. Because of my upbringing, I don’t care about your color, your slang, your religion (or no religion). I don’t buy into the race baiting, the religious campaigns, any of that. I care that as I interact with you that you are moral person, that you strive to do good, and to contribute while spending time on the wonderful rock we call planet earth. I don’t care if you are Muslin, Christian, Jew, ect. However use the suffix of radical in combination, I now have a problem.

My ignorance comes from that I cannot relate to killing, maiming someone for other political or religious views. I could opt for discussion, or even arguing, but it stops there. Would I like you to see my god as I do? Most certainly. If not, I will assume that you love yours as much as I do mine. If you are an atheist, fine as long as you believe in doing good in the world (those that I do know are as kind and good natured as you could ask for). I was taught the value of life, and how precious that gift is.

My other reasons for anger is our current administrations ineptness and the dancing around the “radical Muslim” issue. Glad that Bin Laden was taken out, glad that the effort was not dropped between Bush and Obama. Like many of you, I want things to be called as they are, and not worry about offending their sensibilities or feelings. Identify the problem and fix it, we have heard enough, and had it up to our ears with posturing, and leadership via news polls. Current events stirs up many emotions over 9/11, opening up old wounds for our country.

I freely admit, I don’t “get” the Middle East perspective. Our enemy’s there still hate us, our way of life, and the discussions about it go on forever. It is my hope that on one of these anniversaries that I can write about resolution, and healing. Given the thousands of years of conflict in the region, it may not occur in my lifetime.

Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.

As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nation’s forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for our country.

Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. We can all benefit from a little emphasis on acts of kindness.

© 2013 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media