Eva M. Clayton: “I think that, before we begin our legislative business, we must pause, remember, and offer our prayers to those who…”

“I think that, before we begin our legislative business, we must pause, remember, and offer our prayers to those who faced the senseless and brutal bombing in Oklahoma. I believe we can agree that a safe, secure, and open nation is important to all of us. As Americans, we must recognize how interdependent we are--young and old--black, white, yellow, and brown--rich and poor--we all mourn with our fellow citizens in Oklahoma. And, we pray for those who were injured or died because of this tragedy, as well as for those--friends, families, and loved ones--who must live with it--and, for us, as a nation. Tragedies such as this remind us of how vulnerable we are--how fleeting and precious life can be. We are also reminded of the need, many of our citizens have, for direction--for strong, moral leadership. If the Oklahoma bombing does nothing else, it should compel us to assume those roles for which we were elected--to legislate in the best interests of America--to lead in the best tradition of the Congress of the United States. Now, more than ever, we need forceful leadership-- leadership that can put aside party and politics and put the people in front--leadership that can overlook minor differences and concentrate on major results. It is easy to stand in the way. Many can do that. It is difficult to make a way. Few can do that.”