Posted 9/19/01 America stands tall and strong God Bless America was the preferred anthem at candlelight vigils, community gatherings and prayer services throughout the land, including the 35,000 people who gathered on the Capitol lawn in Saint Paul on Sunday. Everyone felt the shock of the atrocities of September 11 that took the lives of thousands and shattered countless families. There was a deepest heartfelt compassion all over the world as tributes of many kinds moved people everywhere. It was interesting to note that a patriotic fervor accompanied the grief to show unity in love and appreciation for our country and the principles for which it stands. There is a splendid opportunity to unite the peace loving world in a combined effort to eliminate terrorism and isolate countries that condone and harbor those who plan such horrendous acts and recruit people to give their lives in carrying them out. It would be a mistake to have hasty military action escalate this incident into a catastrophic world war. Then, not thousands, but millions of lives would be in jeopardy. Anger and desire for vengeance should not dictate our national policy. Pakistan showed wisdom in offering use of its air space only with the consent of the United Nations. Now is the time for careful international planning working through NATO and the UN to produce a world action that will carefully and completely eliminate acts of terrorism. Domestically, there should continue to be, first, consideration to the aggrieved families, and then to policy considerations as to the wisdom of adhering to a tax cut. Surely all procedures relating to air transportation will be reviewed and improved. We shouldn't give the terrorists a victory by compromising the American way of life. America is united and stands tall and strong to face the future. Careful planning and wise decision-making are called for, not impulsive action. Those wishing to make contributions to the recovery effort can do so through the Minneapolis Foundation's Sept. 11th Fund (A200 Foshay Tower, 821 Marquette Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55402). It is in direct communication with the New York City Community Foundation, the United Fund of New York, and the America Red Cross. Funds will be directed quickly and responsibly to aid in providing services to the families affected. ñ Elmer L. Andersen ©Post Review