Our debt to unselfish heroes

The news about the terrorist attacks over the past few days is nothing short of astonishing: Astonishing in what people can do to other human beings. Even more astonishing is what people will do on behalf of other human beings.

The emerging stories about how some passengers aboard United Flight 93 resisted their hijackers is a powerful demonstration of bravery and sacrifice. They understood what was unfolding around them. And they gave all they had to stop it. In this age of frivolous lawsuits and finger pointing, a few selfless souls paid a terrible price -- the ultimate sacrifice -- to thwart what could only have been another national catastrophe.

Among us are many unselfish heroes like them. Because of that we may yet look forward to peaceful lives in a time of turmoil and tragedy. It is a debt we owe those who perished.

Dean Sensui

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