He was an evil man and there seemed to be no alternative but to take his life. I can see that.

But the glee, cheering and rejoicing, the chants of “USA!” seem immature.

This is not a sporting event.

His death does not change the losses suffered by individuals and our country.

Revenge has never brought anything positive to the world.

It seems to me that the death and destruction surrounding this entire story, from September 11 on, call for prayerful reflection, hope for peace on earth and an end to hatred of all kinds.

In the words of a very mature young woman, Siena Faughnan, a high school junior who lost her father on Sept. 11:

“… this day in history should not be about celebrating a death, it is not about America being the best nation in the world, it should not be about revenge. We killed Bin Laden because it was our solemn duty to do so, to protect lives and to make our world a safer place. I ask that instead of celebrating a death, we celebrate the lives of all the people lost.”

and from Oriah Mountain Dreamer:

“I think of 9/11- prayers for all that lost loved ones. I cannot celebrate the death of anyone. I pray for an end to the hatred on all sides. I pray for peace- in the world & in ourselves. I send calm cool breaths of caring to the world, praying to take the fire out of misguided words of celebration & claims of a victory lest they spark more rage & violence. Love conquers fear, every time.”

To me, these are more appropriate thoughts for this day.