it's a generational thing

myself | 9-13-2001 | me

[jays911]

haven't you noticed? when you talk to people. it is only the under 30s that are freaking out. i have two children, both girls, one almost 17, and one 13. the older one says students at her school are really not handling this well, while she is in total control. my younger daughter is much more worried. in talking to older Americans, however, i see the following patterns: 1) older Americans, those of 65 +, are the least worried. my father-in-law, 100 % lebanese descent, and a navy combat veteran of WWII, is sure we will find our enemies and kick their asses. 2) my partners, of 30s-50s vintage, are of like mind--it may be messy, but it is a fait accompli. 3) it is only our children who are scared--as well they should be, since they have no point of reference. we will survive, and thrive. God bless America.

[an amused spectator]

Welcome to Free Republic, boston_liberty. This is a fortress of conservative thought, and everyone is expected to do their share. Looks like you're off to a good start. ;-)

[TennesseeProfessor]

There's an obvious explanation: Older Americans have seen Republican presidents in action. They have seen Reagan bomb Qdaffi into silence; they have seen Bush drive Saddam out of Kuwait. The younger kids aren't old enough to remember these; their only memories of anti-terrorism come from Clinton grandstanding after the OKC bombing and later bombing some empty tents and an aspirn factory. Can anyone blame them for their lack of confidence?

[LouD]

That said I went out and bought a gas mask at a Mass Army and Navy today.

Welcome aboard, b_l!

You've made a good start - finding FR and buying a protective mask. Next you'll need some firearms. Since you apparently live in the anti-gun Kennedy fiefdom of MA, I'd suggest a good shotgun: A Mossberg 590 or Remington 870 will do quite nicely...

P.S. Go Red Sox! (I may live in Wisconsin now, but I haven't completely lost my New England roots)

[StoneColdGOP]

I don't think so. I'm 24 and I think we're going to destroy the bastards who did this. No fear here.

Maybe I just have a good sense and understanding of history.

[Dan from Michigan]

it is only the under 30s that are freaking out

Guess who is going to fight the battles abroad. Mostly, those under 30.

That said, if they bring back the draft, I'm refusing a deferment.

[Rutabega]

I'm 28 and have always thought that there would be no big wars in my lifetime. I have two small children and the thought of a big war scares the stuffing out of me. However, the thought that criminals like these who attacked America scares me a heck of a lot more! So, lots of us might die or get hurt in a big war? I think America and Freedom demand that we take that risk and take care of these animals fast and furiously!!!!!

[Dan from Michigan]

I'm at a dilemma now. I'm thinking REALLY hard about signing up.

I'd have to quit school to do so though. If my country calls in December though, it will be a very tough decision.

[Texasforever]

God Bless you Dan. My 24 year old Lance Corporal Marine son could sure use your help or prayers.