We can be vigilant without fear

To the editor:

I found U.S. Sen. Kit Bond's column about the need for citizens to support renewal of the Patriot Act persuasive for all the wrong reasons. No one who had the capacity to remember the events of 9-11 will ever forget the terrible images and flood of emotions that day brought. But trying to remind me of how confused and angry I was doesn't sound like the proper state of mind to put me for passing laws.

Why is it bad for only 35 percent of Americans to fear a terrorist attack in the near future? Is public opinion a great barometer for public readiness? I hope President Bush doesn't expect us to be scared our whole lives. I'm still of the opinion that Americans can be vigilant without living in fear.

The Patriot Act isn't the only possible tool for keeping us safe. Less than three months ago the Security and Freedom Ensured Act of 2005 was introduced on the House floor by Idaho Rep. C.L. "Butch" Otter and cosponsored by both strong liberals and steadfast conservatives. Republican Sen. Larry Craig, also of Idaho, sponsored the Senate version, which had 19 co-sponsors. Then there's the 9-11 Public Discourse Project which is following up the 9/-11 Commission and evaluating our preparedness based on the facts of how 9-11 was allowed to happen.

If we use our nation's birthday as a time for renewing our commitment to keeping our countrymen safe, then let's start by heeding reason, not emotion.

BAILEY HIRSCHBURG, Cape Girardeau