by Sean Graham
I paused today to reflect on the ten years that have past since the attacks of September 11, 2001. My heart was again saddened by the tragic loss of life, both of those that died that day and many thousands that have died since, both here in North America and particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq.
As I reflected, the simple phrase "fear that fragments our humanity " kept repeating in my mind as I remembered the names of new agencies like, Department of Homeland Security and slogans like “terror alert level orange” that have kept fear in the forefront of our lives.
For sometime I have spoken out about the terrible fear-based alienation that has been perpetrated against our Islamic brothers and sisters, I believe fear has fragmented the rest of us as well. The fear of what might happen has filtered down into much of our thinking and living. The effect is to become defensive or insecure even in our private lives.
When we hear a message of fear, telling us we should be afraid too many times, we begin to believe it without really considering why. It's like any other message that is marketed to us. Advertisers have learnt that with enough exposure a perceived need will become a driving motivation. We become willing and adopt an idea such as being afraid. I believe we were given the gift of choice and critical thought, which make us uniquely human. When a massive marketing campaign robs us of those, a significant part of our humanity is fragmented.
The events of 9/11 did occur, but do we still believe all the fear messaging since has made this world a better, safer place? Are we ready to look at our societal blind spot and learn that fear does not bare good results but rather creates prolonged suffering in every form and steals from our souls.
This September 11th, I will think critically about the power of fear. I am going to look at myself and think honestly about where fear has stolen from me. I hope to reintegrate, but it will take time.