We all remember September 11, 2001. It's undeniably a day that defines our generation.
However, it appears that the lessons that we draw from 9/11 are as diverse as our experiences that day. One lesson that the Daily News' editorial board expressed is that "It's become apparent in the past 10 years that patriotism can be a great thing, but it should be kept in check, just like Christianity and Islam."
The editorial board goes on to call for more tolerance; however, it seems that in this article they are intolerant of the very people who define themselves in part by their patriotism or their religion.
I learned something considerably different from 9/11. Patriotism is not just a good thing — it's crucial to standing up for our country. It's not anything that we need to keep in check.
Patriotism brings us together. If you remember the days following 9/11, you'll know that we reacted as one. That day, we were all united as Americans.
It was patriotism that led the passengers of Flight 93 to revolt against their hijackers. Patriotism compelled the first responders to run into the rubble, many losing their lives in the process. And again it was patriotism that brought young men and women to join our armed services to fight for everything that embodies that patriotism.
Patriotism doesn't mean always agreeing with the actions of our government. It does, however, mean loving our country and the ideals of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness that we stand on.
Whether we are Christian, Jewish, Muslim, follow other faiths or have no religion at all, patriotism brings us all together. No matter our differences, we are all Americans. Telling us to keep this in check is just as intolerant as discriminating against others because of their culture or creed.
Ten years later, I support our continued fight against those who will display their hatred of America through violence. I call it a War on Terror because that's what it is. Terrorism isn't just an idea: It's real. Our troops stand up for us everyday, so I'll continue to stand up for them.
Patriotism is "our more positive direction." I will never forget these lessons. However, I fear that some on the Daily News' editorial board already have.
-Holly Gillham is a junior public relations major and the chairwoman of College Republicans. Write to Holly at hagillham@bsu.edu.
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