The Left and September 11

Brooklyn

It is encouraging to read the views of all those who contributed to the "Reverberations" issue [Sept. 23]. It's a reminder that we are not alone. A year since that horrible day, the roar of fighter planes echoes over Brooklyn (this, I suppose, to provide solace amid the "orange alert" warnings?). Nothing can relieve the pain of senseless tragedy, or replace the lives lost that day. Nothing can express the anger I feel at being caught between the terrorists who abuse the name of Islam and those who abuse the name of America. We live in fear of both. The scene of our tragedy has become another tourist attraction. The meaning of our tragedy has been hijacked by the Republicans. And yet, as New Yorkers, we continue. We are citizens of the world (literally), and somehow we get along. If I have my doubts about America these days, I love my city more than ever. "We are all New Yorkers." The flag is a comfort to some--I will not begrudge my neighbor his symbols, if he won't begrudge me mine. The Nation remains a beacon in these dark times. Long may it shine!

BOB GOLDBERG

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