I remember where I was and what I was doing 11 years ago. I also remember all of the hate directed at an entire group of people because of their religion, because if the terrorists were Muslim, then all Muslims SURELY must be terrorists. I saw that same hate turned to any man with a turban on his head and any woman with a hijab or scarf over her face.
I had family serve in the Middle East. I have friends serving there now. I won’t forget what happened by a group of fanatics. Fanatics are everywhere, including here in the US, trying to push their beliefs of how people should live their lives.
Live and let live. Your rights end where mine begin.
I’d like to see my friends come back from the war. I’d like to see all claims “in the name of religion” be done away with. I’d like to see all the hatred in the name of “Patriotism” dissolve.
I choose forgiveness and moving forward. I choose love and hope.
Musings of the Amusing Muse 
Well said. Here are a few quotes from The Devil’s Dictionary. If you haven’t had a chance to peek at it, you really should. If you have and appreciate it, well, I like you that much more.
PATRIOT, n. One to whom the interests of a part seem superior to those of the whole. The dupe of statesmen and the tool of conquerors. -Ambrose Bierce
PATRIOTISM, n. Combustible rubbish read to the torch of any one ambitious to illuminate his name. -Ambrose Bierce
I haven’t read those particular definitions, but Ambrose Bierce was a wise man. Amen!