It was a day of shock and outrage: the first attack on the United States by a foreign foe. This infamous day was December 7, 1941, and the attack left 2,403 soldiers, sailors, and civilians dead at Pearl Harbor. Once relegated to history, it now looms before us, challenging us.

In the few days since the horrendous attacks by four hijacked planes on Washington D.C. and New York, we have all reflected on the possible consequences, both here and abroad, of these acts of terrorism.

Retribution was probably on many minds after numbness and shock wore off. Unfortunately, our enemies remain hidden, at least for now, leaving us little recourse. Under these circumstances, we must keep a deliberate mind and not let damaged pride lead to thoughtless mistakes and unfounded belligerence.

The attack was obviously a highly symbolic one. It shook America from its sense of comfort and invincibility. Since the Cold War ended, we have considered ourselves beyond harm. We have enjoyed relative peace, except for those few skirmishes (the Gulf War, Bosnia, and Kosovo) that served only to reinforce our sense of righteousness and of security.

Tuesday’s targets were chosen with the intention of harming those institutions most representative of American ideology. The Pentagon is the center of our national defense and the attack on it was meant to undermine its physical and ideological strength. The World Trade Center was a similar victim. Aside from the enormous potential for destruction and loss of life, these towers represent the vast scope of our economic system, the pride we have in it, and — to the terrorists — the power and oppression we wield through our markets and economic policies.

In contrast, we are unable to attack their institutions and ideals. The terrorists have no structural symbols of the beliefs they fight for. We could bomb Kabal, Afghanistan, but that disregard for innocent lives would be hypocrisy. Furthermore, it is unlikely that such action would reduce the terrorist force in any significant way.

President Bush has declared, "We are at war." Though this is at the very most an unofficial declaration, it arouses a mindset of revenge, honor, and justice.

Such emotions create complex situations and varied responses. For some people, shock, ignorance, and fear lead to anger and violence against innocent scapegoats. It is this characterization of America that was attacked on Tuesday. As a nation we must keep focused on the ideals we consider our basis and eliminate the hatred within our society with the same vigor with which we pursue those responsible. By doing this we will have taken the first step towards counteracting Tuesday’s devastation.

Retaliation seems imminent now. The Senate and House have both passed a measure giving the president the power to use force against those responsible for the attacks. Afghanistan is the probable target since the Taliban are known to harbor Osama bin Laden, Bush’s "prime suspect." Envoys from various groups are offering help to the United States in combating the Taliban and bin Laden.

The Northern Alliance, the rebel group fighting for power against the Taliban in Afghanistan, has offered 15,000 troops to aid America’s retaliation against bin Laden.

Pakistan has also chosen to support the United States, and has demanded that bin Laden surrender. The Taliban in return stated that it would organize a holy war against any country that aids the US in attacking Afghanistan. These actions leave us on the verge of conflict, and now is the time for reason and foresight to take hold.

House Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA) was the sole dissenting voice in Friday’s House vote. She said, "Let’s just pause just for a minute and think through the implications of our actions today so that this does not spiral out of control." Lee reminds us that we do not actually know who or where our enemies are in Afghanistan and that further action should be strongly deliberated upon before we, or others, use force against them.

Meanwhile, Bush has vowed to punish those responsible for the attacks and any country that harbors them. This could lead to thousands more innocent and unjustified deaths. As the leading nation of the free world, we must set an example of justice and honor in contrast to the cowardly acts committed against us.

While I strongly believe in foresight and delayed reaction, I also know that our freedom will not be compromised without retaliation. I strongly support any effort to bring about justice. It will be a long process, involving intelligence gathering and tactical attacks with troops. There will be few opportunities for the missile and bomb warfare we have grown accustomed to.

This type of war is unprecedented and American casualties seem a certainty. Finally, a war on terrorism will never be over because the number and scope of these organizations is immeasurable. It is quite possible that America could enter an era similar to that of Israel, one of ever-possible terrorism and constant warfare. It is clear that our fear tactic is useless against terrorists and our retaliations inconsequential.

America has long been seen as the epitome of freedom and opportunity. Let it now show justice, foresight and determination when dealing with this unstable situation. Our interactions with our friends and foes must be unwavering but also thoughtful. People, countries, and ideals hang in the balance.