'May God bless America.' Excuse me!

Catholic New Times, Nov 16, 2003 by Gerald Vandezande

U.S. President George W. Bush's latest speech calls on Americans and the world to help his faltering administration achieve "Operation Iraqi Freedom".

He urges all to fight terrorist violence against the U.S.-led war in Iraq and "against anyone in Iraq who stands for decency, and freedom, and progress."

Arguing that "we cannot let past differences [in principle and political strategies] interfere with present duties," the president contends that UN. members "now have an opportunity--and the responsibility-to assume a broader role in assuring that Iraq becomes a free and democratic nation."

The U.S. originally opposed this "broader" role. Now Bush insists that the U.S.-led forces "stand for freedom and order." He now requests from Congress an extra $87 billion.

However, polls in the U.S. show steadily declining support by U.S. voters. Bush still boasts: "We are serving in freedom's cause-and that is the cause of all mankind."

"And may God continue to bless America."

He arrogantly assumes that his "God" will "continue to bless America"--no matter how costly its unilateral war is, considering the numerous human casualties, the enormous environmental catastrophes, and the huge financial consequences.

Bush and Britain's Blair should stop their wasteful war and pursue the international public good.. The prophet Micah tells us what is good: to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.

Gerald Vandezande,

Toronto