First-hand report from rural American.

[Just Me]

Believe it or not, I support a "Mom-n-Pop" gas station and general store run by dedicated Republicans. They have taken care of me when my lines froze or the when "critters" invaded the walls of this old house or when my water heater broke or when I was without heat. Now, that I have work, I support them with my dollars,...and then some. I love them.

Over the last year or so, we have inched to wards discussions that include "politics". I guess our respect for one another has always taken front seat preventing our political orientations from interfering with that. I did take the step of just asking questions, though, about what is really taking place beneath the veil. I never demanded answers; but rather, stay tuned to the connection of our common respect and caring for one another.

Earlier today, I went to my favorite "Mom-n-Pop" shop to pick up the usual mid-week milk, bread and fragrant golden home-grown tomatoes I love. As always, the daughter and cousin cashiers kindly asked me "how's life fer ya'". I didn't even hesitate this time responding, "it's sweet with so much bitter,...I've been crying that my favorite brother, in the National Guard, is being sent to Iraq, and rejoicing in helping plan his first wedding."

Both nodded and reflected. The cousin said, "I don't think we should be there." We put our heads down for a few moments. I replied, "The ones benefiting from this insanity does not include us or the Iraqi people. Why are we even there?"

They quickly bagged my groceries and smiled. I respected their time and their limits with a "Thank You".

There are those who manipulate and abuse such good people (Bushco & the neoCONs) and there are those who underestimate both the common sense and spirit of people (put your name here).

Those of us who are genuine advocates of human value and potential must FORCE the distinction between those who are advantaging themselves through emotional manipulation or physical will over the less advantaged,....from the rest of humanity.

We MUST NOT be fragmented/distracted/divided away from our very CORE belief in human compassion and human potential and the human spirit.