"Well, the hardest thing to do, as we know from our own experience on 9/11 is protect everything all the time"

In this quote, John Abizaid is reflecting on the tremendous difficulty of guaranteeing security in a world where hazards can emerge unexpectedly and from many sources. The recommendation to "our own experience on 9/11" instantly evokes the memory of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, which were a stark example of a devastating failure in security. This occasion highlighted vulnerabilities in security systems and underscored the trouble of anticipating and preventing every possible hazard.

Abizaid's usage of the expression "safeguard everything all the time" speaks to the impractical expectation of accomplishing total security. In the contemporary world, with its huge facilities, complex societies, and continuous flow of information and individuals, attaining absolute defense is an unattainable objective. The enormity of this job is suggested in the word "hardest", which emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the responsibility held by security companies and government institutions.

Additionally, Abizaid's statement recognizes the fundamental stress between freedom and security. In striving to safeguard "everything", there is typically a stabilizing act between executing security measures and preserving the openness and flexibilities that are valued in democratic societies. Overreliance on rigid security can infringe on private freedoms and privacy, yet under-preparedness can result in terrible consequences. Therefore, the quote highlights the intricacy of security techniques which should think about not only the technical aspects of security however also ethical and societal dimensions.

Overall, Abizaid is likely pointing to the need for consistent watchfulness, flexibility, and a reasonable understanding of the limits of security measures. His words serve as both a reminder of previous failures and a cautionary note on the continuous need for improvement in security practices, highlighting that while perfection is unattainable, consistent effort and tactical insight are vital.