9-11 Part 4

The call has been made and it appears that America stands on the brink of war. The target-Afghanistan in general and Osama bin Laden in particular. Is it he right thing to do? That remains to be seen. The Taliban and bin Laden have maintained bin Laden's innocence of last Tuesday's attacks on New York and Washington DC. AS I had wrote in a previous piece, these people are usually quick to assume responsibility for their actions. As for bin Laden, however, his modus operendi is to declare himself not responsible, but pleased with the actions of others. It looks as though the far-reaching tentacles of his followers may never be completely severed. Therein lies what has the potential for this to be a true test of just how far America is willing to go to eradicate terrorism from our planet.Any retaliatory strike we have against Afghanistan for last weeks attacks will be met with counterattacks promises the Taliban. It is urging its people to steal themselves for a Holy War against the US. Let's face it, that means more terrorist attacks on more American people in more parts of the world. Are the American people willing to see more images similar to those we have witnessed ad nauseum this week? Are the Islam Fundamentalists correct in their assessments that the Americans don't have the stomach for bloodshed and therefore will give in to the wishes of the Islamic people and leave the Middle East? I personally don't feel we are prepared to fight a war with an enemy who doesn't have borders and who seems willing to attack in non-conventional ways and on our own soil. I don't think Americans can tolerate more scenes like this past week.

Unfortunately, I believe that will be what happens if we go to war with Afghanistan in the name of getting Osama bin Laden. America, get ready, life as we know it is going to change. And it's not going to be for the better right away. If we are willing to do what it takes to rid the world of terrorism it will cost lives like we haven't seen before. The Islamic fundamentalists and bin Laden have said they do not distinguish between American military and civilians. To them we are all evil and are all targets. Sacrifices will have to be made. The question before this country is just how much are we willing to sacrifice. Things are going to get worse before they get better.