This morning not much was known about the goings on in Libya and Egypt, but by the time I got to FSI it was confirmed that Ambassador Christopher Stevens and 3 other officers had been killed. I'm sad and more than a bit shocked by the senselessness of this violence. I am also appalled by the political rhetoric that has come out in regards to this tragedy. Our work overseas is complicated, difficult, and risky. And diplomats make sacrifices while working for our country and these sacrifices should be honored. Period.
Whenever I get discouraged by these kinds of politics, instead of retreating I go straight to the middle of it all, the center of our Nation's Capitol. Riding my bike along the newly reopened reflecting pool on the National Mall is a good reminder of what it means to be American, and why I still feel proud to serve in the government. The mall is a place of unity and patriotism, and as I watched tourists and veterans participating in their own reflections at the various memorials, I thought how much of a difference it would make if politicians and pundits could also take a few moments to walk quietly along this historic pond.
As I was getting back to Main State to meet a friend for lunch, President Obama's motorcode was just leaving. He had come the few blocks over to Foggy Bottom to participate in a memorial service open to all employees. My friend went to hear him speak and she said it meant a lot that he came over to talk to State Department employees. I admire this and appreciate the support, even though I didn't know any of those killed personally.
Below is a video of Secretary Clinton's public remarks (or go here to see it on web).
