I’m not naïve about these things, and I understand that war is sometimes necessary. I may not agree that this coming war, at this time, is necessary, but I understand that some could feel that way, and I’m willing to discuss the question with full respect to those with whom I disagree. What I find incomprehensible is the growing sense that people are looking at this not as a nasty job that perhaps we must reluctantly do, but as something to be regarded with pleasure, delight, and anticipation. It comes out in the words: “let’s roll”, “let’s do it”, “let’s take ‘em out”. There are people around who seem to be looking at this war like a child waiting for Christmas morning. It’s bad enough to see this attitude coming from bloggers on the lower edge of sentience. Seeing it here, coming from people that I’ve debated with as friends, is really and truly disquieting, and it makes me wonder what kind of people, really, we are.
Throughout this past year, it seems our military leaders, both active and retired, have had a fairly muted participation in the discussions centering around Iraq and war. In the beginning, several of America's most noted generals voiced a quiet opposition to this war. In fact, one of them made comments similar to those you make above.
Since then, we hear very little from them. Most military leaders to be sure are getting ready to fight but not with the raucous display often seen in other nations. You would think you'd see our generals at the forefront pushing for war. Beating the war drum! Looking for blood, guts and glory! After all, its what they are supposed to do best. But that's mostly not been the case. In fact, some of them actually have worked to find a way to keep the peace right up to Mr. Powell himself.
During these dark days, when war is on the ascendant and peace fading quickly away, it comforts me to know that our military operates with such measured steps and searches for a way to keep the peace amidst so many words of war.
Thank your for your good words. They are well said.
ted |
