Gareth,

I don't believe that is what I said. I believe I was putting myself in the shoes of another person whose view may be everybit as parochial as ours may be, only from the otherside of the rifle.

I am frequently embarrassed and ashamed of what our government does in the name of self interest. But I am never ashamed or embarrassed by the soul of our nation. I am constantly enlightened and dignified by the strength and power of American character.

It is truly a shame that American Character and American politics are lumped together when Politics knows no character and the lack of character in politicians is what divides the nation and makes us contentious at home and feared abroad.

Don