Note that I am pleased at President Bush's new concern (finally) over gas prices and the U.S. economy. Please also note that I do not blame Bush or his administration directly for our problems. Many of these economic trends began a long time ago as globalization began. What I am unhappy about is how many of these problems were handled, the alienation of many important allies, the "for us or against us" mentality, the "black and white, good and evil" way of thinking, the breaking down of important barriers between religion and politics (the very barriers our forefathers set up to protect religious freedom and unmuddy political waters), the minimizing of environmental and social problems, the complete refusal to admit to any mistakes (because God has, after all, appointed this administration), and the very un-traditional Republican way of making very quick, very huge decisions without a lot of backing or information.
My Grandfather, WWII veteran, long-time Colonel in the Air Force, fierce public servant and defender of the U.S. and staunch believer in support of our government and military, was very worried about our entrance into Iraq for a war of aggression with a country we knew very little about. Near the end of his life, he was also very concerned that we would try to make war with Iran. He, like I, thought that would be a very foolish move while still embroiled in Iraq and Afghanistan. Furthermore, it's even more foolish considering that we have no concrete reason to invade and still do not understand that region of the world.
Please know that I felt all these things before I knew how my Grandfather felt. After discovering where he stood, I am even more proud to be his Granddaughter.
Now I'm done with the PSA's and will return to the IF world. Thank you.