Never for a moment in my life have I been "in love." I do not believe in the notion. Fireworks have not filled my heart. Flames of a fiery passion do not burn within me. Indeed, my soul has not been ablaze. Thoughts of a hot-blooded devotion seem illogical to me. Such sentiments always have. Fondness too fertile is but torture for me. I admire many, and adore none. For me, the affection I feel for another is born out of sincere and profound appreciation. To like another means more to me than to love or be loved. Excitement, an emotional reaction to another, rises up within me when I experience an empathetic exchange with someone who has glorious gray matter.
Today, it happened. I felt an a twinge that startled me. I stood still as he entered the room. I expected nothing out of the ordinary, or at least nothing other than what has become his recently adopted, more avoidant, routine. Although long ago, I had become accustomed to his face, his voice, and his demeanor, for I have known the man for more than a few years. In the last few weeks, while essentially he is who he always was, some of his stances have changed. Possibly, Barry has felt a need to compromise his positions, but I wonder; what of his principles.
For years I have wondered, is this a case of collective Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome? What compels Americans? What distracts civilians and Congress? Why were we, are we, willing to forfeit the rights the founding fathers gave us, particularly the right to privacy?
I surmise the occurrences on September 11, 2001 were a shock to the citizens of this country. We thought ourselves safe, isolated, and insulated. Then, people witnessed their ominous Towers fall, and together we, they, took a leap of faith. We decided to believe in a false leader. A man that maintained a record of incompetence throughout his life was allowed to continue causing calamity worldwide. Americans allowed their President to change the conversation. George W. Bush, a man that was selected for the post of Commander-In-Chief by the Supreme Court, not by the people, assumed a posture, and demonstrated his strength. Frightened beyond belief, we as a nation adopted the fears of a former President's favorite son. Mister Bush cautioned, 'Terrorism is all around us.' With thanks to him, and his war in Iraq, now it is!
Nevertheless, in 2001, captured by angst, the citizens of the United States of America believed. Congress trusted. Thus, they passed ridiculous laws in the name of patriotism. These regulations are more threatening than the terrorists ever were. The Patriot Act looms large in the lives of citizens. Yet, most walk around unaware of how their government now spies on them, legally and illegally, until today.
This issue confuses me, entertains me, scares me, and fascinates me. I am thankful that the "letter of the law" was followed, a warrant was granted and that is good, particularly in light of recent revelations. I do think the principles that guide society are important. I prefer to believe that politicians are altruistic; when bribes are buying influence, I shutter. Nevertheless, I am conflicted. Having experienced an administration that routinely violates the law [thus far, 750 of them in fact], alters the Constitution, and hides behind privilege, I fear for what might be.
Representative William Jefferson, a Louisiana Congressman is under investigation. The charge is bribery. Apparently, serious allegations have been made. It is said that this prominent political leader was videotaped accepting $100,000 from an informant.
The case against Mr. Jefferson has been building for months. This week the court awarded a search-and-seizure warrant. Federal Bureau of Investigation examiners were sent out. Ninety thousand dollars in cold, hard, and ice-covered cash was found in the Congressman's home freezer. The suspect's computer was taken from his office. The money, while fascinating, has caused little clamor. The legality and constitutionality of a Congressional office search has brought much comment.
Subscribe to Site [RSS]
