A Harsh Reminder

With serious domestic battles over the Supreme Court and other more mundane and sometimes trivial items in the news recently, it's been easy to let the terrorism war slip into the background. This morning's horrendous attacks in London are a reminder that the war is very much with us. A summary of stories on the attacks posted by CNN is here.

In a terrible time, strong leadership is critical. Statements were made by Prime Minister Tony Blair

When they try to intimidate us, we will not be intimidated. When they seek to change our country or our way of life by these methods, we will not be changed. When they try to divide our people or weaken our resolve, we will not be divided and our resolve will hold firm. We will show, by our spirit and dignity, and by our quiet but true strength that there is in the British people, that our values will long outlast theirs. The purpose of terrorism is just that, it is to terrorise people, and we will not be terrorised.

and President George W. Bush

The war on terror goes on. I was most impressed by the resolve of all the leaders in the room. Their resolve is as strong as my resolve. And that is we will not yield to these people, will not yield to the terrorists. We will find them, we will bring them to justice, and at the same time, we will spread an ideology of hope and compassion that will overwhelm their ideology of hate.

And this AP article reports on Pope Benedict XVI's statement.

"Deeply saddened by the news of the terrorist attacks in central London, the Holy Father offers his fervent prayers for the victims and for all those who mourn," the telegram said. "While he deplores these barbaric acts against humanity, he asks you to convey to the families of the injured his spiritual closeness at this time of grief."