Katrina - Diverting Attention From 9/11?

September 8, 2005 -- With all of the attention being paid to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, are we forgetting the upcoming anniversary of 9/11?

A year ago at this time, the Department of Homeland Security was raising the threat level in anticipation of a potential terrorist attack on the anniversary of September 11, 2001. With all of the commotion surrounding the Gulfcoast disaster, it is easy to become complacent about the ongoing terrorist threat. Al-Qaeda would love to strike America again, and they would love to do it on a memorable date. What better date than 9/11?

Not only that, but Al-Qaeda might interpret America's preoccupation with Katrina relief as a moment of weakness... the perfect time to strike. Combine that with the recent increased level of "chatter" observed by our intelligence communities (higher in fact than at any time since just before 9/11), and you have to ask yourself why aren't we going on alert? You also have to ask yourself, why are we seeing such vitriolic partisan politics being played out in Washington at a time when our country so desperately needs unity, healing and compassion?

We are angered and insulted when we hear that businesses have used the pain and suffering caused by Katrina to gouge customers. We are saddened and dismayed when we hear of those who would use the misfortune of others for their own economic advantage. Why are we then not equally angered, insulted and dismayed by those who would use the suffering caused by Katrina for their own political advantage?

To those in Washington and elsewhere who would use this disaster and the suffering of Americans for political purposes I say, "Shame on you! A curse be on you and your house for your iniquity and your treachery!"