"Osama has been killed!"
I didn't believe the words at first when I saw them posted on Facebook, just skimmed past them thinking it was some political joke or teaser.
Then I saw them again. And again. Behind me, my phone beeped – my son texting me with the news.
I turned on the television, saw the crowds cheering in the streets, and wondered why I didn't feel the same elation…
It's so surreal after all these years.
What is it I feel?
A sigh of relief for sure – he's just one of many terrorists, but he wielded the most power, did the most damage in recent history. I feel grateful to those who risked their lives to find him and happiness that Osama has been brought to justice for the sake of those whose lives he ripped apart.
I think what I'm feeling can be summed up as cautious optimism. It seems lately the militant leaders are losing their popularity in the middle east – maybe that's why we were finally able to find Osama. Maybe his death will give power and energy to the wave of democracy, to the people who are tired of the violence in their countries. I hope and pray instead of triggering terrorist acts against us, it serves as a warning and deterrent to any out there thinking of taking Osama's place in the terrorist world.
Because, again, we know he's just one of many. And there are still American soldiers dying in Afghanistan and other places around the world.
But today, I give thanks for a bit of justice in this crazy world and pray it soothes the hearts of Osama's many victims. I'm grateful for the determination and courage of our special forces, for this seed of optimism, cautious or not, they have planted in my heart.
I hope one day it can grow into full-bloomed elation that the wars are over and terrorists no longer wield power anywhere in the world.
Long Hollow 
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