Just in time for the holidays, the U.S. again goes to orange. Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge tried to reassure the public that this situation is unique: “These strategic indicators, including Al Qaeda’s continued desire to carry out attacks against our homeland, are perhaps greater now than at any point since Sept. 11.”

As usual, the government also reassured citizens, encouraging them to continue their holiday plans unencumbered. I have a question for Mr. Ridge and Mr. Bush: how are we supposed to be en guarde and continue our daily lives at the same time?

I make it a point not to discuss my personal life on this blog, but since my significant other is on an airplane right now, I’m understandably concerned by the news. It’s over the Pacific Ocean, so she’s probably not in too much danger.

Still, every time we go to orange, and some government suit tells us “We’re in danger, but go about your business,” and “Your government will stand at the ready 24 hours a day…” (the latter actually spoken by Tom Ridge), I get a little perturbed. Suspicious packages? Ala Moana is full of them this time of year.

(Image courtesy Department of Homeland Security.)