A Righteous Anger

I confess to having mixed feelings on this fifth anniversary. I understand the need to memorialize and I’ve participated in a virtual memorial to honor a victim of that tragedy. But I worry that we’re wallowing in self-pity. The need to memorialize is real but there is another need just as important if not more important. We have to understand that the Islamic attacks of 9/11 weren’t just a tragedy -- accidents are mere tragedies. The vicious attack on September 11th was an atrocity – it was a deliberate attack by Islamic savages on civilization and its innocent civilians living honorable and productive lives.

Would America have sunk into self-pity if this happened 50 years ago, 100 years ago, or during our founding? Hardy! The rallying cry “Remember the Alamo” was a far cry from self-pity. There was no “Oh, poor Davy” sentiment back then. Yes, a sacred pause of respect was required but a vigorous vengeance – yes, I said the “v” word – was mandatory. A righteous anger galvanized the cause. That’s what we need once again. Healing? That’s an effete sentiment; we need a slap from Patton to wake us from our daze.

To get a sense of righteous anger, read our founding fathers. Patrick Henry, Tom Paine, come to mind. Listen to the songs that embody the righteousness of past battles: “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Over There,” “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “The Marine’s Hymn,” etc. Where’s that spirit today? Some still have it. Michael Ledeen does (hat tip TigerHawk.) And I’ve seen it in the face (and words) of Rudy Giuliani. This is the spirit of America that we must revive. And we will.