Anger management

Our natural reaction to horrific acts of violence like the terrorist attacks is the desire to lash out at the perpetrators. When angry or afraid, the ability to fight back and blame makes some people feel more in control. Like it or not, anger is a normal response.

But we can compound an already tragic situation by succumbing to these human instincts and thus become less humane. Vengeance and intolerance can pull us down to the level of terrorists.

There is also a risk of venting the anger by stigmatizing people who we perceive to be our enemies, innocent people who look, sound, or act like the enemy. They unfairly become targets of blame because of their race, religion, language, or the way they dress. Blame by association has certainly affected the Muslim community in Sacramento (see “A separate peace,”).

This simply can’t be allowed to happen in this country, no matter what crisis we face. The strength of our country’s character can be found in a commitment to individual freedom and upholding the respect and dignity of all people. Yes, it’s extremely difficult to do in the face of the 9/11 tragedy, but it has to be done. This is truly a test we must pass.

By reaching out to people from diverse backgrounds, we can help heal the wounds from the horrific events that have scarred our national life. It can bandage the emotional cuts, and build a stronger, more resilient community. An attempt to do that is the SN&R’s “A Call for Unity,” (see program insert) that will take place on the anniversary of the attacks. We need to do what we can to defeat the lingering anger.