Focus Point – Remembering Terror

I'm Pete du Pont with the National Center for Policy Analysis. Now that we have some distance from the terrorist attacks, it's interesting to see our responses to them. Out of the hours of broadcasting and reams of print, three stand out for me.

First was the National Music Fundraiser two Fridays back. I must admit I'd never heard of many of the singers, but the music was wonderful.

Next was a long interview on CBS — before their Sunday football broadcast — with the remaining members of a New York City fire company. Losing one man is a tragedy. They lost eight, and each was remembered, not in shock, but with a personal longing and humor that made losses seem even sadder.

Finally, was the New Yorker issue, in which many of their regular contributors described their thoughts. Their accounts were compelling. Best of all was the cover, which appeared to be solid black, but on closer examination showed the ghost of the Twin Towers looming in the darkness. That about says it all.

Those are my ideas, and at the NCPA we know ideas can change the world. I'm Pete du Pont, and I'll see you next time.