A reader writes:
I am a black American woman, born into a family of Democrat civil rights activists.
On this fifth anniversary of 9/11. I am filled with many mixed emotions. That day was our worst, and our best in many ways. We were a nation united for a shining moment. But it seems it was fleeting. I am moved when I hear our anthem. And yes, hearing the Buckingham Palace band stirred in me fierce feelings of love for my country and our British allies.
The last time I felt such strong flutters in my chest ... was the student protest in Tiannamen Square. As they linked arms, they were singing. When I realized what they were singing, I wept. The song? 'We Shall Overcome'.
And we shall.