Our Duty
by Michael gallant

We at QM feel compelled to say a few words about the September 11th World Trade Center attack. We would like to express our condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives that day, and to salute the courage of the rescue workers who responded to the emergency in spite of the danger.

Our little ezine feels the loss keenly, having both a Firefighter and an EMS worker on staff. We lost many brothers and sisters that day. The actions of the Police, Firefighters, EMTs and Paramedics were beyond question. The job requires that they go into danger to render aid to those in need. They understood and accepted those risks. Those of us who remain still do.

While we are saddened and angered at the loss, we are proud of the courage shown by the Emergency personnel on scene, the passengers of the flights, the families who bear their loss, and the volunteers and donors who have given their time, money and blood to help in this time of need.

There is more we need to do, though.

At this hour, there are two things we to which we must not submit: fear and hate.

Nearly sixty years ago, the attack on Pearl Harbor was designed to cripple America's fleet and demoralize its citizens into isolation, shrinking back from the outside world and not interfering with Japan's conquest of Asia.

It had rather the opposite effect.

This attack, like those on our ships and troops overseas, is designed to frighten Americans into shortening our reach, questioning our safety and crippling our economy. We must not allow them to succeed.

The other pitfall is the angry, knee-jerk desire for vengeance. An ill conceived counterattack which harms the innocent, whether it be an air strike on Kabul or vandalizing a Muslim owned business, will only increase the number of people around the world who hate us, making it easier for terrorist organizations to find recruits, donations and places to hide.

Justice will be pursued. Almost every nation on earth is united in condemnation of this act. Let's just make sure we get the right people.

Don't let them win by falling into either of these traps.

Show no fear. Have faith in the economy. Spend as you normally would. Travel. Don't let fear stifle your wallet.

Don't let it stifle your tongue either. Continue to express yourself. Send us stories. Be funny, or controversial. Don't lose your sense of perspective or humor. We'll do our best to help -- I'll be funny by next month, I promise.

So, we ask that you honor those who died by showing the same courage, tolerance and goodwill toward all people that they exhibited in their final duty.

| Home | Alternative | Fantasy | Science Fiction | Artwork | Editorial | Submissions |
| Discussion Board | News | Recommended | Merchandise | About Us | Links | Webrings | Archives |