Another Day in History...

I rarely write about U.S. politics, but as this pertains to the entire world, I felt it was appropriate. Last night I lay in bed writing in my journal. I have posted my entry below (with some added media, of course).

May 1, 2011:
Osama bin Laden is dead. U.S. and Pakistani government intelligence agencies tracked him down to a mansion outside of Islamabad and shot him in the head several hours ago.
President Barack Obama spoke to the nation tonight to make the official announcement. He was somber and pensive, yet resolute and somewhat relieved. The radical Muslim leader who planned the attacks on September 11, 2001 is finally dead--a decade and knee deep in two wars later. Of course, the Iraq war is officially over, but we still have troops there...
Am I happy? No. Osama bin Laden's death will only fuel more jihadists and it isn't as if his death is practical--just symbolic.
Regardless of his death being more symbolic than anything, people across the U.S. are celebrating. A crowd of young people gathered in front of the White House late last night to chant "USA, USA!" over and over again. Many of my friends and family crowded the Facebook news feed with triumphant comments (some could be considered rather "in your face" and distasteful), many praising God for bin Laden's death and a U.S. victory. When I saw the cheering crowds in front of the White House and viewed many of the comments on Facebook, I could not help immediately drawing a paralleled to the similar energy and attitude of anti-American demonstrations across the Middle East within the past decade. When we celebrate an enemy's death and demise, are we not reacting just like our "enemies?"
Perhaps Americans should take a cue from our president. President Obama was nothing near celebratory in his speech. He was relieved at the death of a man who greatly threatened our country and [other countries]. If he felt joy over bin Laden's death, he was certainly reticent. The president did not portray any other emotion than alleviation, solemness, resolve, and rumination. For the president knows that, while this may relieve the American people and others around the world, that this can be used to strengthen jihad and that, because of this, the conflict is far from over. There will be plenty more bloodshed.
Hate begets hate. Death births only death. In the end, only love can conquer, but (sarcasm) where is the glory in that?
Don't get me wrong. I am relieved at his death. I just dread what is to come...