A Victory in the War on Terror

September 11, 2007

Today is the sixth anniversary of the terrorist attacks against the United States by Muslim extremists and where am I? Sitting in my room in the home of my Muslim host family, recovering from yet another of my “mother’s” delicious meals. Given the United States recent foreign policy and the rhetoric its politicians often direct toward Muslim countries, I consider it a small miracle welcomed with such open arms into the Muslim community, and I am extremely grateful for their hospitality. As important as the job of English teacher and development facilitator is, I believe that the job of ambassador remains the most important responsibility of a Peace Corps volunteer. For many nations and peoples we present a radically different face of America, a face that needs to be seen even more today than it did six years ago. This is the face of America that realizes and respects those things that make people different, but focuses on and celebrates those things that make us similar. This is the face of America that instead of trying to destroy every perceived thread seeks to turn those enemies into allies through education and cooperation. As much as any U.S. army soldier, the PCV is on the front lines of the war against terrorism, and while things continue to go poorly in Iraq; the Peace Corps’ operations remain very successful.
Coincidentally, this week is also the beginning of Ramadan, the Muslim month. Muslims all over the world will spend a month fasting from sun up to sun down and refraining from such vices as drinking, smoking, and sex. The most important part of Ramadan however, is the focus on forgiving old grudges, and seeking to be kind to your fellow man. It might be hard, but I think this year that all of us should participate in this part of Ramadan. This year rather than focus on the pain and loss of 9/11, focus on how you can make a positive change. Invite that annoying neighbor over for coffee or tea and have a long conversation, you may find out that you have much more in common that you ever knew, and they may turn out to be a valuable friend. To be sure, it is too late to share a cup of chai with Osama bin Laden and get him to change his mind, but it is not too late to work to make sure that no more bin Ladens are created. So please, join me, I have the water boiling.