current events

last night, while i talked to my parents half a world away, we watched together as President Obama announced that after nearly 10 years bin Laden had finally been killed. while i listened to what seemed a momentous statement--one that hopefully provided some closure for families who have lost those they love to 9/11 and in the aftermath decade long war--i thought about where i was that day, waking up in DC to a changed world, watching the shock on the faces of those around me, understanding that the threat that so many in the world live with every day had finally come to the US.

the scenes from outside the white house make me sad. there is no joy in the murder of others, justified or not. justice does not equate with felicity or exuberant patriotism. too many have had to sacrifice their lives for me to celebrate the death of one. i honor our soldiers and their families. I honor the people of the countries we have invaded and their continued struggle. i think about those who fight against terror in their country every day of the week without hope. and i leave you with this quote from Martin Luther King Jr.:

"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that"