And some are more American than others, in that we have performed our national service, at first willingly, and continue to pay our taxes, willingly.

That said, understanding a people wanting to rid their country of a foreign invader is a short stretch. I would want to rid mine of one. That's an easy one.

And calling my country a repressive occupational power in a land half a world away which was no threat is patriotism of the highest order - some group has to be grounded, has to see the emperor has no clothes, and has to be the voice of a collective conscience.

The lynch mob, "if you ain't with us you hate your country", form of patriotism trumpeted by neo-cons isn't patriotism - it is the attitude of rioters hell-bent upon looting, and hating the people who don't join in because in their hearts they know they're wrong.

But so wrong it would be impossible to face it.

But your continual, heartfelt belief that liberals such as me are traitorous, less than patriotic, and hate their country, is beneath contempt. (Although I have to admit I hate what my country is becoming. Mostly because I was raised in a grand, noble place which is being trashed.)

I would suggest you calm the rhetoric, and also understand that Bush is a passing phenomenum. That in a democracy, a real democracy, dissent is a duty and an obligation. Especially when matters are so wrong, so immoral, so evil.

Arf