A Change in My 9/11 Schedule

Believing all members of a group are evil = overgeneralization

Since 2001 I have never missed a visit to the World Trade Center site, going to pay my respects and mark a year in my life as well. From the beginning I established a tradition of what I wear, what I carry with me as well as the order of sites I see--the Morgan Bank, Federal Hall, Trinity Church and then Ground Zero.

Tomorrow, however, I will be adding another stop to my pilgrimage, as I will be heading over to Park Place to the pro-Muslim rally being held there.  I am not a religious person but I am an ethical one and I feel so much disappointment and anger over the unfair treatment of the followers of Mohammed and the founders of the Cordoba Center.  I am embarrassed by the ignorance I see and hear on a daily basis in reaction to the construction of the center and I feel the need to lend my presence, as well as my words, in helping fight ignorance and prejudice over this issue.  

As we mark this 9th anniversary of the tragedy that occurred here, think of the good people of all faiths, as well as those without one, who were murdered that day in the name of hate. Hate is the enemy dear readers--not Islam. 

Dont Let Black Friday Put You in the Red

(control) = (happiness)

Let me predict the news at your local network affiliate: long lines fought to get deep discounts on big ticket items. Store owners report solid sales but the numbers did not reach expectations.

Am I a psychic? No. But I know that will be the story, barring some national disaster. Black Friday. All the hype. All the noise. But it is just another day, even if the media and their spin doctors call it otherwise. Sure there are some real bargins out there, I won't deny that. However, based on the status of our personal, as well as national economics, bargains, and the pursuit of them, has gotten in this condition. Why not make today the first day you give in to the consumer peer pressure affiliated with this day?

Spend money on gifts if you have it. Even if you do have it, don't go overboard. On a budget? Make gifts if you are handy or offer to do favors, or cook for loved ones, or just tell them how much they mean to you. Not all presents have to be brand new and wrapped in plastic.

A large portion of our national and personal grief can be directly linked to our compulsive consumerism which has to stop. Why not make today the day to take a stand?