A letter from the editor

0 Comments | Insight on the News, July 1, 2002 | by Paul M. Rodriguez

Dear Readers,

Politics and religion, along with money, ought not be discussed at the dinner table lest an otherwise fine dining experience be upset. Or so it's said. But we've never subscribed to such namby-pamby political correctness and, we hope, neither do you. We say vigorous discourse not only is good but it helps digestion, as it were.

What brings this to mind is patriotism. No, not jingoism, but plain old-fashioned patriotism in the best sense of its meaning. Americans can disagree about policy but ought not disagree about the principles upon which this greatest of nations was founded and that its people enjoy every day as free men and women.

The recent spats over "profiling" of Muslims or Arabs at airports is a case in point. When does patriotism kick in? When do we accept the fact that to help keep America safe some of us--me included--must seek to protect our nation from current and future enemies? If that means temporary inconveniences such as being stopped and searched by airport security screeners or asked to leave a plane because the captain is uncomfortable then so be it. Because "I" am an active patriot "I" shall cooperate during temporary times of national need.

Does this mean giving up my rights? Hell no! But it does mean accommodating security needs for fellow citizens who, in turn, shall be on the lookout for my safety, too. Unlike other countries, America is a land not just of great opportunity but populated by a people who actually have authority over how their country is run. It may not seem that way at times but, if ever this notion was submerged at the bottom of our consciousness, it surfaced clearly during the Florida recounts. Even more so now that war is being waged against all of us by fanatics opposed to our way of life.

We've assembled stories that shine light on what's good about us and what is not so good. But, as you will see, there's a reason that flag is on our cover.

Until next issue then, God bless.

Paul M. Rodriguez