DougR, you missaprehend the meaning of my analogy. I wasn't making an analogy between our war of independence from England. I was comparing what we did to the Native Americans to what Israel has done, and continues to do to the Palestinians.

And I'm not suggesting that anyone should feel guilty about it. But to the extent that the problem is ongoing in Israel, I am suggesting that we all speak out about it, and do whatever we can to help Israel move forward from this bloody part of its history. I think that's what most Israelis want as well. They just don't seem to be able to break out of the trap denial that they're stuck in.

It's a difficult thing to accomplish. In order to stop doing the things that have been causing the problems, they have to admit that they've been doing them. Can't stop doing something that you don't admit you're doing. Then, after they get real with themselves about it, they can say they're sorry and begin to help the Palestinians move forward out of the devastation in which they find themselves now because of the Israeli policies and practices.

In other words, don't feel guilty. Just stop it, and get to work helping to correct the problem.