Just some short thoughts on the news of bin Laden's execution. I'm not really sure what to call it, actually. Taking out? Killing? Death? Assassinated? Anyway...on to the questions:
Am I happy that he was found and captured? Yes, COMPLETELY.
Am I happy that he was killed? I'm mixed. For the potential symbolism, well, see below. But, and I know this may be a very unpopular opinion, and yes I am putting myself out here...who are we as individuals or as a people to decide who lives and who gets killed in the name of a "moral victory"? I'm going to rest my opinion on the belief that his capture was not going to happen, that he was going down swinging and to that extent, yes, I can accept his death. I saw a post of a quote that I think highlights my internal struggle:
Do I see this as a symbolic event? Too soon to tell. It could be. In my mind it’s dependent on what we do going foward...
Are things going to change in this country for the better? I hope so...And I'll leave it at that.
Are things going to change in the world? Again, I sincerely hope so…but…
…is terrorism defeated? No.
So, the intentionally rhetorical question I’m left to ask is this: if the killing of Saddam Hussein and Osama bin Laden has not ended terrorism, what will? If anything?
…or is the potential answer that, as Americans, now that we’ve symbolically avenged those who were killed in the 9/11 attacks and since, do we need to adapt our views of, and reactions to, terrorism?
FINALLY, what should never go unsaid is that all of us should be grateful and thankful for all of the members of the Armed Forces, first responders, EMTs, firefighters and the good police officers out there, who have literally put their lives on the line for the freedoms that we have (and sometimes take for granted) in this country. I often poke fun at clichés but this is one that could never be said enough.
I personally think the death of Osama bin Laden is more of a symbolic victory at this point. Those that actually caused the deaths on 9/11 died in the attacks. Yes I know many, many people planned it but those that actually carried out the actions died with their victims. Was the manner of his death justice or revenge? I don't know, I wasn't there to know what really went down. Is his death going to change things? No, and if it does it may be for the worse. Has his death given closure to those affected by what bin Laden helped set in motion? Yes for some no for others. I can't help but think that like Saddam Hussein at one point in time bin Laden was the USA's best friend before they were no longer of use to the USA. I'm not trying to defend what either of those two did as it is indefensible just mentioning some history that many want to forget. If bin Laden's death was nessacary, if it will help some find closure that is for others to decide on their own. As for me his death really has no impact on my life.
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