[Munchkin03]

Arya, I think I'd like to hear what you have to say. I've noticed that our opinions are often similar, and it's nice to hear voices that dissent from the norm.

Why does one have to be "Anti-American" if they are anti-war? I am extremely grateful for having been born in a country where I had freedoms that people will die trying to receive by coming here. I pay taxes, vote in every election, write my congressmen on a regular basis, and keep myself knowledgeable of most things that go on in my hometown. I'd consider those actions pretty pro-American. I am a "Pro-American", productive member of society.

But I am against this war more than anything I could ever be against in my life (except the anti-abortion movement, which is another thread). That does not mean that I am against any and all wars--for example, I felt the war in Afghanistan was just, and therefore supported action there. I feel our actions in Iraq are not just. Therefore, I will not support what I see as an unjust war. I support the people who are fighting on behalf of GW's campaign, but I do not support this war.

I have many friends and family members that are in the Persian Gulf right now. Does it hurt me to see the war protesters on TV? Hell no! If anything, I know that many of these people want the servicemen and servicewomen to come home safely--how can that be hurtful? I'd frankly rather see a protest than see bodybags.

If there's anything I'm fed up with, it's the people who allege that I am anti-American because I do not support this war.