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Sunday Night
MaryHelen Swanson, editor

Itís always sad to see summer come to an end, and this year probably more so than others because it seemed like it was so late in coming. But we must say good-bye now as we say hello to autumn. Itís time for back to school and settling down at work. And this yearís new dimension, as we change seasons, is facing an anniversary of tragedy that leaves many of us feeling empty, even as we come off of a year of patriotic exaltation.
The biggest talk recently was not so much that we were coming around to one year from the terrible Sept. 11 attacks, but how to go about observing them.
Should we celebrate life or mourn death in silence? Should we keep our remembrances solemn or shout to the world that we have pulled together in solidarity rather than fallen apart inside the tragedy.
We cautiously approach next Wednesday, uncertain how we will actually feel when it arrives.
Before it does, however, we have a chance to prove our American citizenship in the primary election process. Itís a great opportunity to take that stand in honor of those who died one year ago.
It can be a bit of an inconvenience, getting to the polls to vote, but itís all part of a bigger picture that says here in America we have choices and our voices count.
To be sure, past elections and election procedures have not always made sense, but they still declare our freedoms and privileges as American citizens. As we head into some difficult weeks, still stinging, still wary, still on alert because of the horrible terrorist attacks, why not promote the healing process by being a good citizen.
Our president, George W. Bush, is asking that we observe the Sept. 11 date all month long by serving one another. Remember how nice everyone was in the weeks that followed Sept. 11? Thatís what heís talking about, loving one another, not taking each other for granted, helping those who are suffering, sad, lonely, alone and hurting.
It also means commending those who are doing good deeds, celebrating the special moments of our lives and congratulating those who are working toward making America a better place in which to live. Itís supporting one another in every way possible.
Perhaps the one who needs your support is your spouse or your child, or your mom or dad. Perhaps itís your neighbor or even someone youíve never seen before.
Now more than ever it is time to be American. Vote in the primary election, remember the fallen and get out and do something for someone else.
If you cannot love one another deeply, and serve one another wholeheartedly, at the very least, be civil to one another.

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