The Death of Osama bin Laden

Last night at 10:30 PM EST, the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Catherine that took place 36 hours before became old news. President Barack Obama confirmed that Special US Navy Seal Forces, termed Seal Team 6, fatally shot Osama Bin Laden. While I know that this makes many people feel better (according to CNN), I feel pretty unsettled. Just today, on Facebook, one of my good friends sentimented that she feels "sad for a man that's led such a hate-filled life", to which one of her Facebook friends responded, "There is no conflict between forgiveness and justice. We keep the Old Testament around for a reason." His Facebook profile page was also a picture of Bin Laden centered in a bulls-eye.

Here's what I think: The New Testament bridges the gaps in the Old Testament. I like to compare it to our constitution with the amendments. Example, "Eye for and eye" was bridged by "Do not repay evil with evil". That being said, I admit that I'm relieved he's gone. But, I REALLY was hoping that we the people could have taken him to trial. The end result would have been most likely the same and very risky, but perhaps those most affected by his actions could have voiced them prior to his verdict. His followers could hear/see what his actions have caused so many. Now, my fear is whether the dragon is dead or going to be replaced by a three headed one. While, this might be a step forward, this might also be fuel for the next generation of terror....a smarter, stronger one. As far as I'm concerned, current events have altered nothing until these countries can successfully inspire their civilians to choose peace (or control their "children".....I dislike the word control though).

I wonder if I'm alone when I prayed for his soul today while waiting in line to return some books at the library. I wonder if he was so hated by his parents that he became what he was. I remember watching the towers fall when I was 19. I remember crying. I remember calling my friends in the armed forces to see what was going to happen going forward. I remember my mommy coming to find me at college because her children were all that mattered when it seemed that the US could be under constant attack. Which, in turn, leads me to wonder what Osama Bin Laden would have been like if he had half the mother I have.