Neither bombs nor bullets are the terrorists’ real weapons – their real weapon is the fear they try to instill in the population – and because of that, they can win only if you’re afraid. Be unafraid to speak against their tactics and live your life unafraid and you have taken away that weapon, leaving them helpless.
We don’t yet know who committed the despicable acts at the Boston Marathon; it may be anyone, from anywhere, for any reason. We know one thing only; they were determined to use murder, mayhem, and the guaranteed national coverage of a bloody attack to try to terrorize the nation. They are incapable of making a rational argument for whatever cause they advocate in the land of free speech and free elections, so they go for the throat. The attack is not a sign of their strength; it’s an admission of their weakness.
There is a difference between fear and care. Sure, use care, be aware of your surroundings, be alert and observant. Those are prudent things – but do not let the terrorists make you cower.
Yesterday, a TV talking head said it has never been like this in America before, but he obviously needs history lessons; terrorism of one sort or another – including bombings – have been with us and the whole world for a very long time. Just check the records for the last 45 years alone. You will find murder, bombings and attacks by domestic and international terrorist groups and individuals. Some of these attacks resulted in scores of deaths, but with the exception of the bombing at Oklahoma City, they have received less attention until the massive attacks on 9/11 galvanized the nation.
The truth is that you and your loved ones are very unlikely to be involved in, much less harmed by, any terrorist incident. The statistics won’t make you feel better if it happens, but you must put the risks in perspective. That last beer someone is having before getting behind the wheel of a car is a much greater threat to you and your family than a terror attack, but it won’t make the national news.
Many Americans have worried that they can never live up to the legacy of “The Greatest Generation” that fought and won WWII, but generational challenges are different. Terrorism is the challenge of this generation and it is dangerous in its own unique way – it’s primarily a psychological assault.
Now is your chance to meet and defeat your challenge. What can you do about terror? English clergyman and poet George Herbert (1593 – 1633) is often credited with the best advice, “Living well is the best revenge.” It applies here. Live well, enjoy life and all the wonderful things that America has to offer, move ahead. Send the message to the miserable malcontents – our worst day will always be better than your best day because you know what you are.
Speak up and step up. Get in there and fight for what you believe in, but do it our way, not their way. Being overloaded with news coverage, much of it meaningless or merely “me too” can be depressing, but even bad things can ultimately do some good.
As George Herbert noted in another observation, “Storms make oaks take deeper root.”
Marty Richman is a Hollister resident.
