66 years ago today Pearl Harbor was attacked by a Japanese force with great planning and precision.

Yet today, three generations later, we are trading partners with Japan, a peaceful and prosperous nation, because, in part, we had leaders and citizens willing to let the past go and help Japan rebuild, maintain its dignity and re-engage with the world community as a sovereign nation.

I'd like to say that the lesson of forgiveness and compassion is obvious, but as I look at today's world of sectarian fears and hatred and revenge, I guess not.

For the 30-and-under crowd, Pearl Harbor is just another date in the history books, forgotten and ignored.