Sunday, March 30, 2008

So many great broads, so many books to read, so little time

I am completely into the John Adams HBO mini-series, especially Abigail Adams as portrayed by Laura Linney. Sure, I knew she was the wife of one President and the mother to another. But I had no idea she was such a strong and inspirational force. Her marriage was a true partnership, as well as a love story. I'm eager to learn more about her, but I already have a book about another First Lady, the much-maligned Mary Lincoln, on my on-deck circle.

Who bears "the biggest burden" during this war?


A wise and sensitive man once said, "War, at its best, is terrible … It has deranged businesses and ruined homes and produced a national debt …" That was Abraham Lincoln back in the 1860s. It's true today.

Dick Cheyney, a most unwise and insensitive man, said that, when it comes to Iraq, "The president carries the biggest burden, obviously. He's the one who has to make the decision to commit young Americans, but we are fortunate to have a group of men and women, the all-volunteer force, who voluntarily put on the uniform and go in harm's way for the rest of us." For ABC's coverage of Cheyney's comments, click here.

I don't believe that the President carries a bigger burden than the kids (and they all look achingly young to me) "who voluntarily put on the uniform." I think every one of those soldiers, sailors and marines are heroes, even though I am completely disillusioned by this war.

To show my respect and gratitude, I am sending a package filled with travel-sized shampoo and body wash to Operation Shoebox. This wonderful group is committed to sending "support, snacks and personal care items" to those deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. It's a small gesture but it makes me happy to do it, and I hope it makes one of those brave young souls "who voluntarily put on the uniform" feel a little more comfortable, and reassured that many of us still believe they carry the biggest burden of all.

To donate items, mail them to:

Operation Shoebox
PO Box 1465
Belleview, FL 34421-1465