As we write, it is the day before the Sept. 11 anniversary, with many Americans still fearful what the day may bring. It will be a somber one, about that there is no doubt, as we all remember the events of last year. And it will also be a day of reflection, as we all wonder how our world came to be a place with so much hate and resentment.

We Americans have learned that despite our efforts to be world leaders, there are probably millions out there who hate us and everything we stand for. Some are more than willing to be individual martyrs and die to demonstrate their hate, as long as it means some of us die with them.

Sept. 11 was a grim reminder of what it must be like in several countries around the world when an event as innocent as a dance, a luncheon with friends, or even an afternoon of shopping can be shattered by a car bomb or random gunfire. Those at the World Trade Center and The Pentagon were all innocent victims who did nothing wrong; their only “crime” was being a part of a democratic society which is the target of terrorists hell bent on destroying us.

We’re learning (we hope!) to reassess our role in the world around us and to recognize the importance of having the support of many other countries before we move into action. A good idea usually gains support; a bad one doesn’t.

A strong front against some of the world’s atrocities would go a long way in helping us reach our goal. If one country is opposed to your actions, that’s one thing; when you’re looking at 20 or 30 united in opposition to what you’re doing, that’s quite another matter. It quickly gets their attention.

On this Sept. 11, all of us pray that we can someday live in a world where people can resolve their differences in a peaceful manner. Acts of terrorism such as we endured last year do little to change things for the better for the attackers. What a great world this would be if we can learn to help one another, exchange goods and ideas, and create a strong economic atmosphere for families everywhere. All the average person wants, no matter where he or she lives, is a safe home and environment, food on the table, a chance to get ahead if you work hard, and a peaceful lifestyle uninterrupted by terror and fear. It’s such a simple request, and yet apparently so unattainable for millions of people worldwide whose leaders have an agenda of their own.