Hope for transfer of our blessings

To the editor:

In his recent letter, Alan Journet suggested it was the patriotic duty of Americans to oppose the war in Iraq. The definition of "patriot" in my dictionary is "one who loves his country and zealously supports its authority and interests."

At the end of his political meander, Journet said the president is cynical and immoral and that it is the president who is the chief promoter of terrorism. This assertion goes beyond hyperbole and is outrageous. One cannot quarrel with Journet's evident dislike of war. Most Americans share that sentiment. But I do object to the tone of his letter, its lack of civility and its lack of respect, which sadly may be a sign of the times. Some of Journet's remarks tend to suggest that he is an all-knowing seer possessed of extraordinary moral insights. Journet stretches credibility to the breaking point by saying White House appointees planned the war in Iraq to promote U.S. global domination. Now who is being cynical?

I have no idea how the war in that divided and tragic land called Iraq will play out. I suspect many Americans have some hope that the blessings of liberty are transferable to Iraq. Time and historians will sort it all out.

SCOTT BROWNING

Cape Girardeau