The September 11th attack — Editorial
Now: Painful questions and tough decisions

In its righteous anger, America has launched a "war" on terrorism. As the battle is established, however, we must force ourselves to ask and answer painful questions about our motives, our goals and our methods.

This does not mean we question our sense of purpose, our unity or our unquestioned right to deal with those who would attack our buildings, our economy and our citizens.

In fact, if the questions are asked and answered in the right way, it will strengthen our cause.

What questions are these? A sampling:

• Do we truly know that Osama bin Laden was behind the hijackings and the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon? We know he inspires hatred for the United States and supports terrorist groups around the world.

So it is logical to assume he had something to do with these attacks. But at some point the American people — and the world — will have to be shown the hard evidence that leads us to this conclusion.

• Are we prepared to be drawn into other fights not of our making and not directly threatening to our own national security? If we wish to war on terrorism, how do we decide whose side we are on in Ireland, in Indonesia, and so many trouble spots around the world?

• Are we able to make the commitment of understanding and tolerance needed to win the support of peace-loving people of the Muslim faith, not just in the United States but around the world?

• How can we avoid spawning a new generation of terrorists, those who suffer under our military might? We must go in and take out those who performed this act of terror and those who supported them. But we must also be ready to rebuild relations with the others in serious and meaningful ways.

• As we build a new security system domestically and as we pursue those responsible for terrorism abroad, will we be ready and able to protect our basic constitutional rights as well as our respect for the rule of law?

These are just a few of the questions we must ask and answer as we move forward in this great effort. If we do not answer them properly, our cause will be stained and our goals not truly met.