On May 1 around 11:20 p.m. I found out that Osama Bin Laden was killed by the United States Military. I have now proceeded to watch not only President Obama's speech but almost any news broadcast I can find on the internet (I don't have a tv).One news broadcaster said that this is a moment that marks a generation. I would have to agree. There are many momentous occasions in each generation. But for my generation, this is probably the most significant. My generation remembers where we were when we found out about the attacks on September 11, 2011, as does every American on that day. We all remember how that affected our lives. But I would argue that 9/11 was the single most historical event of my generation. In many ways, we all grew up that day and became attune to the fragility of our country. Tonight, we are marked by another historical event - Osama Bin Laden's death.
There are people celebrating out on the streets in front of the White House and through out New York City, the Country, and the world. But I hardly think this is the end. It's a symbolic end to almost a decade of the leader of Terror. However, it's hardly the end of terror itself. With every action comes a reaction and I genuinely fear the aftermath of this event.
That said, in this moment, I have to acknowledge the grace and poignancy of President Obama's speech. I do hope that this action will help his campaign next year. I also hope that his line - that we were never fighting a war against Islam is VITAL. Too long has 9/11 and the "War on Terror" been misinterpreted and used for racism in this country. It's also been exploited for political advantage over the decade, disgracing those whom died in the 9/11 attacks and those whom continue to serve this country.
I never realized my patriotism for America until I went abroad for a year and was constantly identified by the country I was from rather than my personality. I would still say I'm not that patriotic. But I would say that this is a huge achievement for President Obama and this country and I am proud. While I know this is not the end of terrorism, I feel a sense of finality with this news and to that I can celebrate.
