The right words - Front Page - September 11 attack - Brief Article

As I write this, just 10 days have passed since the horrific events of September 11. As you read this, who knows what has transpired. No one has been untouched.

A member of our editorial board was supposed to be at the World Trade Center Marriott for a meeting on that day, at the fateful time, but he cancelled his trip at the last moment. Christopher C. Newton, 38, CEO of Work-Life Benefits, a long-time valuable resource to us, a husband, a father, died on American Airlines flight 77. A T+D editor waits to hear if a loved one will be among the reservists called up for duty. One of our contributing authors lost a brother. Co-workers have given each other candles, and red-white-and-blue ribbons to wear.

Life for most of us at this moment seems to be suspended. An editor's task and skill are in trying to light upon the precise word to describe a situation, an object, a feeling. Here are some words I have heard people use to describe what they are feeling: sad, angry, bewildered, bereft, anxious, lethargic, vengeful, despairing.... Yet, most people I know are not completely without hope for the future, are still celebrating life's milestones such as birthdays and weddings, are still able to enjoy laughing with friends, and are showing more care and concern for others.

You, our readers, are about learning. What have we and will we learn from these seemingly senseless acts of hate? That may be for each person to decide for him- or herself. But here are an editor's words to leave you with: kindness, giving, quietness, reflection, family friends, spouses, partners, neighbors, tolerance, compassion, love, unity, hope, peace....

Haidee E. Allerton

Editor

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COPYRIGHT 2001 Gale Group