in my line of thinking...

Are we better today than we were ten years ago? Ten years after September 11th, 2001, are Americans better today? The question is not "Are we better off now than before?" To be better off is a matter of condition; to be better than is a matter of quality. Are we as Americans better today than we were ten years ago?

September 11th permanently altered American life. We can point out the changes. A new Homeland Security Department. Enhanced security measures at airports. The Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Debate over border security. The list goes on. American life has altered. We have worked to make American living conditions better. But, are we better? Not in condition, but in quality?

Half a century ago, the nation witnessed what has come to be called the Greatest Generation. It was a generation that took tragedy and responded with sacrifice. It was a generation that saved the world. It was a generation that taught it's children not to ask what America could do for them, but what they could do for America. It was a generation of individual Americans who made themselves better through the challenges they encountered. So, what about us? Are we better?

It's a question for the individual. It's not to be answered in the third person, but rather in first person. Not "look what he or she is doing." But, "here is what I am doing." Yes, the question may be better stated, "Am I a better than I was ten years ago?"

September 11th ignited our nation's inner strength as Americans bent their knees. May we always retain the unity and power of a nation under God. September 11th sparked a ferver of volunteerism in Americans. Countless Americans gave blood, signed up for the military, and joined the Peace Corp. May we never cease to live by the maxim, "It is better to give than to receive." September 11th showed a nation its soul through images of firemen and policemen and everyday citizens who redefined "American Hero." May we always remember the legacy of sacrifice.

And me... "Am I better today?"