The terror threat reportedly is high, but Americans should focus on the love and caring of those around them, not on the fear some groups are trying to promote.

This is the holiday season, a time when people of many faiths are expected to go out of their way to be a little nicer and more generous. Among Christians, the Christmas message is peace on earth, goodwill to men.

The expectation that the holidays should be a time of extra kindness and charity makes it especially sad that, in today’s climate, they also are a time of added fear.

Federal officials have raised the national security index to orange, saying the risk of terrorism is “perhaps greater now than at any point” since the 9-11 attacks. The thinking apparently is that anti-American terrorists might take advantage of the Christmas holidays to launch an attack that equals or exceeds the World Trade Center and Pentagon suicide flights.

An attack at Christmas could be both physically and symbolically devastating. Many people are traveling and would be vulnerable to an attack involving airports or suicide flights. The goal of the terrorists would be to cause death and disruption, but perhaps even more, to instill fear in the American public.

It’s good for officials to let Americans know the increased threat exists, and it’s only smart to beef up security and take extra precautions. But America shouldn’t be paralyzed by fear. Federal officials have advised Americans to proceed with their holiday travel plans; to do anything less is to let terrorism win.

This nation is blessed with many assets, not the least of which is its people. There’s no need to be smug or isolationist, but we have reason to be proud of what America stands for. Just being America seems to enrage our enemies; going about our daily routines without bowing to their threats is perhaps the best revenge.

It’s sad that terrorists may be contemplating an attack at what they perceive to be a vulnerable time in America. It would be the greatest Christmas gift of all if we could find a way to defuse their anger and make the world safer for everyone. That may be more than mere humans can accomplish, but it’s a nice thought at the holiday season.

We ardently hope that all of you can gather with family and friends for a holiday celebration unmarred by terrorist acts or tragic accidents. This is a time when people should join in the spirit of love and friendship, not cower in fear.

Merry Christmas to all.