Editorial

Stand United

More than 200 years ago, when our young country was facing its most daunting test during the Revolutionary War, Tom Paine wrote, "These are the times that try men's souls." Those words couldn't be more appropriate today. The horrific events of September 11 have forever changed us. We at Draperies & Window Coverings magazine wish to convey our deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones in this tragedy. We express our sincerest hopes for the safety and well-being of our industry friends and their families in the New York City and Washington, DC, areas and add our support and gratitude to those brave men and women involved in rescue, recovery and relief efforts. The aftermath of these attacks will be felt for a long time the world over. The disruption to our daily lives has been far-reaching. Over the course of the past month, each of us, no doubt, has taken an account of his or her life and life's work with a new perspective. In the days and weeks immediately following the devastation, many of us found it extremely difficult to work. Whatever we did for a living seemed a mere trifling now against the background of the atrocities that had occurred. But these are times that also bring out the greater good in most of us. Here is just one example from our own industry: Moe Rouzati, president and CEO of Aveno Blinds & Shutters, has partnered with the American Red Cross to help raise money for the Disaster Relief Fund. Between October 1 and January 31, 2002, Aveno will donate to the Red Cross a portion of each unit it sells to its regular dealer base. There are many more stories like this one from individuals and companies large and small. They illustrate our compassion and willingness to put aside matters that once came between us. The question before us is, what do we do now? The best thing to do is whatever we each do best. These are trying times, indeed. We need to stay strong, stay focused and remain resolved. It is time to stand together as an industry, a community, a nation.

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