Ken,

I see we're on the same wavelength. #I used that very quote a few weeks ago on another forum (before the anthrax scare). #We were talking about whether or not we would fly again. #This was in response to a man who had written in from Seattle, where a large commercial aircraft manufacturer recently announced massive layoffs to the tune of 30,000. #

I flew just last week--I figured at the very least I could help my acquaintance keep his job. #That was all the reason I needed.

I agree, the best thing we can do as patriotic Americans is to go on living our daily lives.

Here's another quote for you:  "Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country."



(Edited by pilot at 8:17 pm on Oct. 29, 2001)

Your right pilot

Americans need to go back to living their lives with a heightened awareness of the changes that are occuring now.  No use hiding at home and becoming a couch potato and scared.  We are at war and we need to keep the economy going.  The media is trying real hard with their up to date ticker tapes at the bottom of the TV screen telling of a new anthrax case in the nation.  Anybody watching that is going to feel a little scared, but we gotta learn to turn that mess off.  America needs to get back to business and renew our economic strength.

BTW, Kennedy made some real powerful statements in his time.  Sometimes I wonder why he was a democrat due to the fact that he was moderately conservative.

fear is a weakness - live life to the fullest.. You will be much happier..

I would think fear would only be a weakness if you don't respond to it effectively. To some it can be a great motivator.

John you're absolutely correct.  Fear is one catalyst for turning an average person into a hero or a coward.  Its character that makes the distinction.  

I was as nervous as anyone flying...but that didn't stop me from going on my trip.

Ken,

I took your safety advice about the mail and now feel confident and secure again about opening my mail and reading it. I’d just like to add a few pointers.

Though it took a few tries to get a decent procedure down, (practice with junk mail or bills) this has worked best for us:

After you've drawn an appropriate amount of water (1/2 gallon or so for letters, at least a gallon for most brochures) don’t add the soap until after you’ve read the mail. Getting it unfolded is bad enough but the bubbles will make it impossible even if you manage not to tear it to shreds. Also, a white relief for background works best (bathtub or bathroom sink). Stainless (most kitchen sinks) don’t offer enough contrast for easy reading. Lastly, I think cold water is better. Hot seems to make the ink run sooner (especially blue) and the spores seem to drown in either case.

Thanks!

Larry,

"Luv ya man", where you been?  Hiding from that Nebraska fanatic wannabe warrior of yours?  Glad to see your sense of humor wasn't damaged by all this.

I am so totally not afraid of hijackers or anthrax that it's not even funny.  What these guys go for is the fear and intimidation factor.  They count on the fact that people are fraidy cats who avoid confrontations.  And it seems to be working!

If you let fear and intimidation rule your life, you're a lost cause anyway so you might as well roll over.  TT's right - fear is a weakness.

Just laying low and taking it all in...