10 Years Later

I feel really removed from the United States. I watched a bit of the 911 ceremony on Sunday and it made me think of where I was 10 years ago and how fast the time has gone by. I don't think about terrorism being a threat to me in Peru. It's not something I have to worry about here. I said a little prayer for all the families who lost someone in the attacks but I also said a prayer for the people who live in terror and fear everyday in parts of the world that don't have the ability to make a memorial for all the people who have died at the hands of terrorism. I find it hard to believe that Americans aren't more aware of how our country creates a lot of anger among other countries and that if we went about trying to solve this war on terrorism by actually setting up infrastructures and giving back to the countries we have messed up (i.e. Iraq and Afghanistan and Palestine indirectly), we wouldn't have to live in such fear that more attacks are coming. I am sick of self righteousness and the whole "our way or the highway" mentality. I do not downplay the sadness of what happened ten years ago but it is up to the US and its people, including myself to be goodwill ambassadors and start making a difference instead of sitting on our butts and letting politicians make STUPID STUPID decisions about what we should do. My dad always tells me that power in numbers really works and I think he is right. As for what I am doing in South America, I am trying to promote a positive image of what Americans are like and that we all aren't fat ignorant people who don't care about anything but our own happiness and making money. (It's a sad but very real stereotype that people believe down here.)

I challenge everyone reading this to be proactive and live each day consciously so that not only you can be a happier person but for the future of the planet and international realtions. (I know, huge task...at least you'll think about it though!)