Reflections on Osama’s demise

For the last two days we have all been reading and reflecting on the death of Osama Bin Ladin. I know we are glad to see the end to someone who had killed so many and affected all our lives directly or indirectly. Here are some things I have pondered.
What do you think Osama’s last thought were when confronted with a very lethal Navy Seal in his face? I truly believe he thought he was untouchable and would never be caught, so was it surprise?
How about the Seal who made the kill? I know they are trained for this but killing anyone is not an ordinary task. Elation that we finally got him? (I am sure this was part of the reaction)  What about looking into the face of the man you are killing. Does that haunt them a little? What a difficult job. 
What about the angst our President must have felt? Not knowing for certain that we had the right target and knowing he would be putting the lives of this Seal team at risk. This is a President who had worked very hard at repairing our image in the world. How difficult it must have been to know if Osama was not in this building our image as a nation would be marred once again. There were so many factors to consider and knowing it is your call, your order that will affect so much. I have a new and profound respect for this man.
I do feel Osama’s ideology has had its moment and is less in favor in the Arab world. The young of the mideast have said enough is enough and we want to govern ourselves and not have autocratic leaders governed only by religious rule. I pray for a more peaceful Middle East, though I may not see it in my lifetime. If there is another side effect of Osama’s death other than justice for those he murdered, I hope it would be that radical ideologies will come to an end and religions and governments will learn to peacefully coexist. I know that is probably an unrealistic hope but it is my prayer none the less.
Lastly, I feel grateful for all the men and woman willingly fighting on behalf of the USA, for putting their lives on the line to make a safer world for us all. I am thankful for Seal team Six that they have trained for the most difficult tasks. I am thankful to President Obama who kept the task at hand and made the difficult call. Finally I am thankful to live in a country that values personal freedom. 
God bless the USA and the world, may someday we find the peace we so long for.

Comments

  1. DeborahMay 3, 2011 at 1:14 PM

    All good points to ponder as we reflect on the recent news of Osama's death. I don't find it a reason to celebrate, but instead a reason to hope that one day we will all be able to live in peace.

    ReplyDelete
  2. RickMay 3, 2011 at 1:22 PM

    Thanks for a very insightful analysis of Osama bin Laden's demise. You raised some great questions about the possible effects on those involved in this operation. I also agree that it was a very gutsy call on the part of President Obama but a very thoughtful and well reasoned one.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Jim and SandieMay 3, 2011 at 4:38 PM

    Very well said.

    ReplyDelete
  4. owensontheroadMay 3, 2011 at 7:14 PM

    Here, here! I hope the side-effect of his death is not more death :(

    ReplyDelete
  5. Mike & TerryMay 3, 2011 at 8:32 PM

    I couldn't have said it better. I would like to think there is some hope for a more peaceful time.

    ReplyDelete
  6. PamMay 4, 2011 at 8:00 AM

    Very well said. I, too, am very proud of the way this was handled. The Navy Seals are true heroes and our President is proving to be a strong, smart leader. Everything about this mission was impressive. I can't even imagine the kind of pressure they were under. No wonder President Obama's hair is turning gray!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Lee and LoralieMay 4, 2011 at 11:28 AM

    What a great post...thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  8. RV Khronicles of KevelynMay 4, 2011 at 6:05 PM

    Great post. You brought up some excellent points. I agree our President is doing a good job. After all, he took over when this country was pretty much on its knees. You can't fix that overnight, but I think he has made some very good decisions. I, for one, am willing to give him a chance. Thanks for making me think!

    ReplyDelete

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