The 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City also affected the United Nations, and most of the staff, officials and diplomats present. More critically, there was not only genuine sympathy but also support for America at the UN, but in many key global capitals. What has changed? Was support squandered? Could the promise of free and open societies been furthered to counter not only terrorism but also intolerance and closed ideology? Some Americans have used the term “celebration” in referring to the observance of the 10-year anniversary of 9/11. America has remarkably managed to overcome the physical wounds. Osama Bin Laden has been killed and Al-Qaeda is on the run. However, because of the victims and so many lives lost and damaged, it cannot be a moment of celebration. Besides individual lives, 9/11 has scarred America’s psyche. Are we as confident in our own open, free and tolerant societies when both the times and challenge require most our commitment to such American ideals. The 9/11 Anniversary may be perceived differently, but without contradiction it is a time of remembrance, reflection and recommitment. By Ambassador Muhamed Sacirbey Facebook – Become a Fan at “Diplomatically Incorrect” Twitter – Follow us at DiplomaticallyX “America – AAA Country” Channel - diplomaticallyincorrect.org/c/america-aaa-country