We Are In It Together

For Americans, September 11, 2001, was a defining moment.  It impacted all of our lives in one way or another, not only altering our sense of security but also reinforcing our resolve and unity.  On this tenth anniversary, like many others, my prayers continue to be with the victims and all those who lost loved ones.  I am also grateful and mindful of the many Americans sacrificing to secure our freedom and our nation.  Our American-bond that helped us through the recovery after September 11 can guide us through the challenges our nation faces today.

America was attacked because it is a bastion of freedom.  Our freedoms, resources, innovation and economic system have positioned America as a leader throughout the world.  As such, we will remain a target.  Rather than retreating, by remaining true to our ideals, we are resolved to succeed and persevere.  While we continue to address the threat of terrorism, we must do all we can to ensure that America remains an exemplar of a government that works and an economy that creates conditions for prosperity and growth.  On this important anniversary, let that memory galvanize our efforts to strengthen our nation, maintain conditions for peace and work for a government that meets its responsibilities and focuses on the betterment of the country.   

I often hear frustration from Idahoans and others that the hyper-partisanship and divisiveness in Congress are affecting progress.  It is a stark contrast to the unity and comity across government and the people that took hold following September 11.  Many want elected officials to not give ground on important issues; however, they could do without the unnecessary and time-consuming bickering.  I agree.  Congress has more work to do to set our nation on a sound path, and we must work together to get this done.  We also cannot waste additional time.

As we pay tribute to our fellow Americans who lost their lives on September 11, we must not forget the effects that they had on our lives and nation.  Let us honor them by strengthening our country.  We can disagree on the best ways to get there.  That is healthy, but we must not let this disagreement hinder progress.  We are in it together.  September 11 reminded Americans that we are one people.  Particularly on its anniversary we should be mindful of that fact and that our government is one of the people, by the people and for the people.  Not losing sight of that will help us advance. 

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