I’m saddened to learn that, in her Sept. 11 column, “Sharing fault for Sept. 11,” Alicia Ebaugh was “sickened” by the displays of patriotism shown by Americans following the terrorist attacks of two years ago. I believe those displays were among the best things to come out of the massive tragedy, along with the compassion shown by relief workers at the attack site and the resolve of our citizens to end the threat of terrorism. They were displays of Americans doing exactly what she says we didn’t do: Taking the time to show our appreciation for the freedoms we take for granted.

Allow me to make an effort to answer the questions posed in Ms. Ebaugh’s editorial. What gives the United States the right to dominate other nations? The United States does not “dominate” other nations. We are willing and able to protect others and ourselves when they pose a threat to our citizens or our allies.

Is the kind of power we have in the world arbitrarily given or have we earned it? We have earned it. Since leading the world to victory over tyranny in World War II, the world has looked to us to fight the battles that need to be won in order to ensure freedom. The U.N. and other nations across the globe often come to us seeking protection.

What exactly is it that we think makes this country “the best?” It is exactly one thing — freedom. We have established the freest and (not coincidently) most prosperous nation in history. This has long been the source of jealousy and resentment among those who do not value the freedoms we enjoy. It will be for a long time. This does not mean, however, that we are obligated to live by the restrictive beliefs of those who think that murdering thousands of civilians is the way to heaven. There are far too many people at home and abroad who see only the outward consumerism of our society and too few who take a closer look at the men and women who simply strive to work hard, provide for their families, and live out their dreams.

If you want to blame the American way of life for the actions of these killers, you are only showing yourself to be blind to the truth. The responsibility for the terrorist attacks lies solely with the people who planned them, carried them out, and those who enabled this act of massive destruction. There is no need to radically change how we live or how we use our freedoms. Fortunately, we are both free to believe what we want as long as the resulting actions do not encroach on the freedom of others. So live how you want to live, dress how want to dress, but I hope you’ll take some time to appreciate the fact that you live in a nation that protects your freedom to do so. In other words, keep your pants on.

David Sprau

Sophomore

Journalism and Mass Communication