My ex-husband's and his parents, who were Austrian, used to tell me that if terrible tragedy struck in America, we would turn and rend each other like beasts because we are uncaring people. To say the least, they didn't understand Americans. i am so delighted to be able to point at the tremendous and heroic GOOD being done in the face of tragedy, and to say that they were totally wrong. Here are some of the beautiful and positive memorials to those who lost their lives today, seen on TV and heard on the 'Net: off duty policemen running into the second collapsing WTC to rescue people he heard in the rubble of the first WTC building to collapse. The incredible selflessness and calm organization of the hospitals in New York and Arlington. The hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of people here near D.C. and in NYC lining up to give blood on the instant it was called for. People hereabouts opening their homes to acquaintances who couldn't get home because of the terrible traffic jams in evacuating Washington, D.C. i hear and see a large and generous spirit rising up to help our fellows in distress, and band together in time of crisis. There have been NO riots or fearful mobs. People have gotten their jobs done and gone out of their way to help out where they could. i have heard that foreigners sometimes find Americans to be chaotic, selfish, and too-logical or unfeeling in our dealings. This is not really true, just sad cultural misunderstandings. How could it be, when we are bleeding and angry, and yet still concerned here about our own retaliatory and racist acts, and harming innocents of other nations? It is a dangerous time, this aftermath, but remembering that we are good people will help us keep it together. My deepest thanks, also, to all those from other nations who have expressed your love and sympathy. You have great hearts, and may God reward you in kind. Nan