The political power of terrorism

Actually, we’re feeling the effects of terrorism in some way every day. I just went through the new routine at the airports with restrictions against onboard drink bottles and cups, makeup, toothpaste, etc., all of which has to be checked in your luggage. It went smoothly and I was impressed, but sure wished I could have taken the toothpaste on board. It’s one of those little things, but it reminds you of how much even a foiled plot has impacted our lives.

Every time you take your shoes off at the airport security, and walk in your stalking feet, remember the shoe-bomber they caught, and hope another one doesn’t slip through.

In this election season, we certainly see how the war on terror has become politicized. But this line in a USA Today article about a new boost in the president’s approval ratings stood out:

The boost may prove to be temporary, but it was evidence of the continuing political power of terrorism. 

That article cited a USA Today/Gallup Poll on America’s attitude right now on terrorism, and it reportedly revealed considerable pessimism.

Do you consider yourself pessimistic about future terrorism? I’ll call myself…hopeful. And I join that hope to prayer for an end to violence and the outbreak of peace. Since it has to start somewhere, I’ll do my part.

I wish you peace.