at the request of Athenaeus, here it is:
"For 17 years, I have been proud of the fact that Chocolatier brings fun and joy into so many households. When, from time to time, situations arose that challenged the fabric of "journalism" or "freedom of the press". I conveniently reminded people that Chocolatier deals with brownies, not world news, hunting, or politics.
Until today, that was enough. But, sitting here trying to master enough mental energy to talk about this month's features is difficult at best. Sure, Mexican Very Hot Chocolate, Fruitcakes, Crispy Christmas Trees make for delicious taste experiences. And the history of cinnamon is more interesting than one might expect. But, as with everything else since September 11, 2001, things have taken on a different perspective.
As a native New Yorker I cannot help but feel tremendous anger and bitterness toward those that destroyed so many helpless people, not to mention our Twin Towers. Can such hatred for us truly be in the name of religion? I don't think so. I believe these people have become so entrenched in hatred and their way of life that they could not return to a life of "normalcy" even if they got everything they wanted (and I pray to God they never will).
What concerns me now is the negative reaction of many Americans to people of the Islamic faith. The vast majority of Muslims are no more responsible for these atrocities than Christians were for Hitler and the *****. We shouldn't lose sight of that fact. Most people, regardless of race or religion, are good-hearted and peace-loving. But these terrorists and their distorted viewpoint of life are giving the entire religion of Islam a bad name.
It's time for the silent majority of Muslims to stand up, condemn and take action against all acts of terrorism, regardless of religion or culture. Then, and perhaps only then, will we see the bin Laden's of the world put to rest and the Islamic faith restored to respectability around the world.
For our part, I encourage you to stay in your kitchens, take the time to bake something and share it lovingly with your friends and family. Cook the foods you love, the recipes that comfort you most. For me, that's always meant chocolate.
Michael Schneider
Editor-in-chief
P.S. The pastry world lost a great pastry chef and human being when Heather Ho failed to escape from Windows on the World that fateful day. My condolences to her family and friends. We will never forget."