Americans Unite In War Against Terrorism |
Members of Congress have set aside their political ideologies for the time being. They have unanimously approved a $40 billion emergency funding bill and have authorized the president to use the force he deems necessary to hunt down and punish those responsible for this unprovoked attack on our way of life. These actions will help pay for the costs of recovery and provide our military with the ability to wage a furious war against terrorism.
In the days following the tragic events of Tuesday, September 11, Americans have shown their resolve to overcome brutality. We are ready, willing and able to hunt down the cowards responsible for killing and maiming innocent people. Old Glory is flying like never before, adorning cars, homes and businesses all over the nation. Though we have seen the face of evil, our missions are clear and our resolve is strong.
People across the country have come together in prayer. Blood banks have faced an unending rush of volunteers. Public service agencies across the country are offering their services to aid in the massive recovery efforts now taking place. And I have received countless calls and messages from Middle Tennesseans asking how they can help.
The despicable acts of terrorism against Americans have injured and displaced thousands of residents in New York and Washington. I have posted a list of informational phone numbers on my Web site that will direct those who wish to help in this time of need. Middle Tennesseans can also call my Murfreesboro district at 615-896-1986, or my Cookeville office at 931-528-5907, to get a list of those numbers.
It's difficult for most of us to find the words express our disgust and grief. Making sense out of these terrible acts is nearly impossible for adults, but even more so for our children. In the wake of this national tragedy, as difficult as it may be, we must find the words to talk with and listen to our children.
In an age where information flows so freely, our children have seen gruesome pictures and heard grisly sounds that are sure to haunt. They are struggling to understand why such an attack occurred, as are the teachers and parents who must try to answer the questions our kids will ask.
I have found some good resources, however, that may help adults answer those tough questions. The National Center for Children Exposed to Violence, which can be accessed through the Internet at www.nccev.org and the American Academy of Pediatrics, which can be accessed through the Internet at www.aap.org, have put together information that should help parents deal with their children's questions. The National Center for Children Exposed to Violence can be reached by telephone at 1-877-496-2238, and the American Academy of Pediatrics can be reached at 1-847-434-4000.
This nation has been put through a harrowing experience, but we will pull through it, closer and more united in our stand for democracy and justice. And the quicker we get back to business as usual, the sooner the rest of the world will understand that nothing can deter our resolve to be free.
