...are made up of people, as are governments. It is impossible, by definition, to attack a nation without injuring its people.

As Americans we are responsible for the policies of our government. Indifference is not an exception. Opposition is not an exception. We are America, like it or not.

Likewise, people of the nations supporting terrorism cannot expect to be spared the price of war. It is a hellish price, and I fear that some leaders may choose to pay it with the others' souls.

Freedom...

...is an abstract concept, most days. Not on September 11, 2001. We welcomed the visitors as millions before them, provided opportunity, our homes, and our culture. They, with their families, accepted those gifts. They then turned to destroy us.

They were free to do so, as was Tim McVey. No different, really. We welcome strangers because the make us stronger, we hope. They have in the past and will again. This incredible menagerie of lives and cultures hinges on the rights of the few, and must continue to do so.

We will crush terrorism, and defend our freedom. Freedom has a cost, a part of which is safety. Tuesday we made a down payment.