FlyAAway,

Yes, I am guilty of using feckless[ness] twice in the same thread. It seems to me that this word in particular, both phonically and etymologically are particularly appropriate these days. I might just have easily used futile, ineffective, incompetent, etc...

What kept me away from military service was the pursuit of two bachelors and two masters degrees coupled with five years of internship and practice. As the United States has no compulsory military service requirement I submit that it was not un-patriotic for me to do so.

I was born into a world of relative peace and freedom won through not only the military service of my grandfather, you, and those that came before you but also by the intellectual labors of many other patriots (both historically and contemporaneously) who never fought or served for whatever reasons but provide the ideological framework, rights, protections, and laws that are the true foundation of this nation.

I remember my grandfather telling all of his grandchildren that he volunteered, fought, and was injured in WWII precisely so we could do such things and that from his point of view our family had "paid their dues." It was/is his sincerest wish than none of his progeny ever have to fight again. Just because I never served nor choose to support every position of the current administration do not presume that I do not honor and respect the sacrifices of others on the battlefield.

Yes I do wholeheartedly support the efforts of our government in the pursuit of the terrorists and yes there are exceptions. These ideas are not inconsistent. Disagreement and criticism of the government or current administration even in times like these are not unpatriotic and do not enhance the likelihood of future terrorist acts. Following in unquestioned lockstep with what any government or administration says is a sure recipe for bad government at best and totalitarianism at worst.

While I may not have every answer to every question as to the proper solution, I do know that it will not be found in preventing passengers who read "certain" books from flying on commercial airlines.

Also, while the Lexus is a fine automobile, I come from a family of Jaguar (for their warmth and personality) and Mercedes (for their precision) owners. A Lexus would be heresy.

As for the ultimate measure of a man, that can only be found in the degree to which he can be honest with and true to himself. Anything worth any real value will flow from that. As for myself I make mistakes everyday of my life. But I do what I say. I suppose that is how I define "being a man".




[This message has been edited by anrkitec (edited 10-25-2001).]