Lately there has been a profusion of conspiracy theories. I realize that nothing is ever entirely as it appears, but we need to use our own judgement in regard to the media. Similarly, we need to hear and participate in discussions of conspiracy with wisdom and discernment – to think for ourselves.

My concern, however, is not so much with conspiracy theories as with understanding that some conversations affect others in ways we might not expect. It might be exciting and provocative, for example, to discuss all the wild theories about 9/11, but who is listening?

Generally speaking, this tragedy affected American citizens deeply and changed the world. There are others whose lives were directly affected by the horror of that event - those who witnessed it,  those who lost loved ones and those who were vicariously traumatized by what happened that day.

You might be surprised who falls into the latter group. It includes those involved in the telecommunications industry, those who went to new York to help in the search and clean up, those who built the World Trade Center … and many others too numerous to list.

Do those who believe in the conspiracy theories care about the human cost of the day or just political intrigue? Discuss it all you want. But be aware that someone listening to your conversation may be affected in ways you could never imagine.