The New York Times is working hard to become the paper of record again (having lost its title to the various news sources on the internet a while ago). This story on Bush's feeling that God has called him to his cause is a good one and will no doubt be quoted time and again in future books about this period in time.

It's a little scary at how Bush might be running on what he feels is his date with destiny, but at the same time it is reassuring that there is someone in charge who is willing to do what it takes to 'bring freedom to the world.' Yes, I've been slowly falling into the Pax Americana camp. I thought we could do it through more peaceful means, but the actions of a few Terrorists have forced us to move quicker to establish encampments of everlasting freedom in every nation across the planet. Either you are for freedom, or your for fear, said Bush. When it comes right down to it, this is truth. Love each other like brothers, or be prepared to be slain like enemies. I'm still developing my thoughts on this issue, but I think we must face this thread now, or face it later.

Nothing brings it home like Liza Minneli singing NewYork-NewYork with a kick line of New York's finest behind her. Nobody does it weirder.

Over the course of the week I've read about 50 weblogs from people in
NYC. This, by far, is the most powerful.

http://partygirl.diaryland.com/index.html

You will have to hit previous a number of times until you get to 9-11
and then read forward in time.

The first story I've read from a firefighter's perspective.

This article draws an interesting parralel between the War of 1812 and our present situation.

I've also heard people discuss the ties between fighting Terrorism and the fight against Pirates that Jefferson led during the early days of our country's history.

Any thoughts from people more familiar with these situations than I?

Why did people jump?

I am not a religous man anymore. Whatever happened on Tuesday was outside the realm of the spiritual or the work of any god. Still, I was raised Catholic and have some familiarity with its words and music. This hymn has always given my comfort in times of tremendous sorrow. I hope it helps you as well.

On Eagle's Wings

You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord,
Who abide in his shadow for life.
Say to the Lord: "My refuge;
My rock, in whom I trust.

And He will raise you up, on eagle's wings;
Bear you on the breath of dawn;
Make you to shine in the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His hand.

You need not fear the terror of the night,
Nor the arrow that flies by day.
Under His wings your refuge;
His faithfulness your shield.

And He will raise you up, on eagle's wings;
Bear you on the breath of dawn;
Make you to shine in the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His hand.

For to His angels He's given a command;
To guard you in all of your ways.
Upon their hands they will bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

And He will raise you up, on eagle's wings;
Bear you on the breath of dawn;
Make you to shine in the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His hand.

And He will raise you up, on eagle's wings;
Bear you on the breath of dawn;
Make you to shine in the sun,
And hold you. . .
And hold you. . .
And hold you. . .
Hold you in the palm of His hand