Freedom
One of the many things I've noted about writing from a red zone is how it affects the organization of my thoughts. I'm very careful about looking for common ground, and presenting my ideas in as rational and polemic-free way as possible. I would like to think this is a good thing, but there are drawbacks. It is because I recognize the limitations of being reasonable that I have no problems with my neighbors to the left and right of the spectrum who choose to speak with passion and zeal.But our administration (particularly Dick Cheney), many members of Congress, and quite a few residents of our community, do not agree. They are convinced that any discussion of the war borders on treason, and will "hurt the troops."
I find this line of "thought" to be absolutely bizarre. The refrain one hears repeatedly is that "we should support our troops since they are fighting to protect our freedom and democracy." We also hear that the exercise of freedom and democracy is devastating to morale. Could it be true that our men and women in uniform, facing suicide bombers, insurgent attacks, and a hostile force, can be brought down not by the enemy, but by debate at home?
There appear to be wide swathes of our citizenry who have no idea what freedom actually is. These are the people who cheer when they find out the FBI has exceeded the already excessive powers granted by the Patriot Act, and has investigated tens of thousands of persons with no conceivable ties to terrorist organizations of any kind. They argue that we have to sacrifice some civil liberties in order to stay secure, although one has nothing to do with the other. We can bow to a police state, and still find ourselves less safe in our homes than before.
I personally doubt that the current war in Iraq has much to do with protecting freedom and democracy in America, and I am certain that it is increasing the terrorist threat rather than reducing it. I am also certain that many of the men and women fighting the war in Iraq disagree with me, although not all. It is the nature of humanity to be fractious and opinionated, and it is the nature of democracy to celebrate that quality and forge a nation that can accommodate everyone. And that is as true in times of war as in times of peace.
Let freedom ring.
posted by Lenore Wilson @ 5:41 AM
2 Comments:
Just checking in and letting you know that people do know how to use the comment section...just so you know I have now linked to you on my blog...the address is http://cm1165.livejournal.com.....it is not updated very often although I think that I am going to try and write more often now. Hopefully I will see you around....
Thank you - I hate it when the comment section gets lonely. I visited your website also, and it really struck home. You write about the people and events that loomed large in my life when I was as young as you are. I appreciate your giving me the address. I can keep up with how you are doing when you head off to the wilds of North Carolina.
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