how does ashley gilligan believe that the united states has changed since september 11?

Ashley Gilligan believes that since September 11, the United States has become both more united and more aware of its vulnerability. She reflects that prior to 9/11, many were not aware of the potential damage that could be inflicted on the country, but after the attacks, there is a greater sense of unity across the nation. She emphasizes the idea that "we, the people of the United States, exemplify 'united we stand, together we fall.'" Additionally, she mentions having moved past the anger she initially felt after the attacks, realizing the importance of love over being paralyzed by anger.