The Same old Holy War - Different Despots.

First of all let me say that I have no problem with people who feel comfortable believing in a higher authority. However, serenity, inner peace and a desire to help others can be attained with or without organized religion. Music and meditation work for me.

The sad fact is the whole world is still going mad in the name of religion. Islamic suicide bombers are now making headlines but despots and presidents alike have been duping (doping?) the people for centuries. We all know the real reason for creating human cannon fodder is political influence, power and greed. If you want to control the masses and inspire them to die for your cause, just make them believe they will reap a higher reward if they sacrifice themselves. This includes abortion doctor killers and al-Qaida.

Haven’t enough soldiers died in Iraq and Afghanistan? Were they fighting for democracy, homeland security, oil or revenge? I have said all along that invading Iraq was a stupid idea and that country has now reverted back to religious sect squabbling and murder. Anti-Americanism is rife and it will be interesting to see if another “Saddam” takes over after this billion dollar war is done. Can the United States afford to keep diverting money from domestic programs and infrastructure needs? I think not. An unbiased review of American Middle Eastern policy is required before another generation inherits the suicidal hatred of radical Muslims.

American Christian fundamentalists have hi-jacked a nation founded by men of whom only 20% had any religious affiliation. Let’s get religion back out of world politics and keep blind faith in houses of worship where it can do no harm to the enlightened majority. Blind faith is what helped to elect a man who comes across as a bad reciter of prepared speeches that rely on biblical catch-phrases. After a Hurricane Rita briefing with Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco in Baton Rouge, President Bush said: "I know the people of this state have been through a lot. We ask for God's blessings on them and their families." Of course, it’s hard to find fault with that lovely sentiment but a meaningful plan of action without the born-again Christian rhetoric would be more appropriate. Bush doesn’t say too much anyway but when he does, it’s just repetitive hogwash. Thank “God” he can’t run again. Just take your oil money, George and retire to Florida. You and Saddam can keep Jeb company.