But I don't think the publics priorities have changed all that much. After all there are kids to be raised, food to be put on the table and bills to be paid. But I still see more American flags being displayed than I ever have before.
Think of it in these terms, the terrorists thought that 9/11 would bring us to our knees and it didn't. Living a normal life is the best way the average American can thumb his nose at those blood thirsty bastards.
I think it depends on what part of the country you live in. I have been mildly surprised to see the number of American flags still adorning cars or flying from shops and stores. And I still see a lot of people are still wearing their flag pins. I live in Oregon...so this response has been even MORE surprising (although, it was only 3 counties in Oregon that elected Gore). I did NOT expect the patriotism to last this long. And I think the public display of patriotism carries the message that no, we haven't forgotten we are at war.
Whenever I read a post about the civil liberties we are losing (although most can't name one)....or the inconvenience that is being imposed on us, I think back to the stories my Mom used to tell me about WW2. Driving the coastal highways without headlights, IF you had gas or tires. The rationing, no meat, nylons, coffee. The black-out curtains. And I realize that MOST of the whiners and naysayers, even if their fear is generated by honest concern, have NO concept of what MIGHT/COULD be coming.
I think another attack(s) will occur. THEN we shall see how much inconvenience is tolerated, I guess.