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I trust in Bush, but also think that there are wise men who are trying to make sure he thinks this through. Some may have their own agendas, but when Armey, Kissinger, Scowcroft, Schwartzkopf, et. al. speak out, their voices have merit. Along with Papa Bush, these are leaders who have served and seen enough to know when caution is warrented. Think of it as a generational issue, the wise elders moderating and counseling the headstrong and fiery leaders of the Boomer generation(now reaching the apex of their power). Its a good balance, since historically we are in the same pattern where the uncompromising idealists(Boomers) rush to seek total victory(which may not be possible). Idealists generations were at maximum power during the Revolution, Civil War, Depression, and now.

Not to imply any lack of support for the President. If Dick Cheney is for war, then there is good reason to be. He is levelheaded, in command of excellent judgement, pragmatic, and knows how to accomplish. I trust his judgement. My point is that while there may be good reasons to go after Iraq, how that is done is also vital. We have many internal weaknesses and vulnerabilities, and a difficult judgement as to what and when sufficient purging and rearming has taken place. Too many things can spin out of control, there are so many variables, and a Pandora's Box of negatives IS quite possible. Unlike many here, I do not salivate for war, but rather am very concerned. I think few understand what hardships we will ultimately face, and the very real risks. We are in a temporary calm, but once it starts we will never again be the same. While I think we will prevail, I don't think it can absolutely be guaranteed, nor the costs predicted. 'Victory' may end up being defined quite differently from what we now envision, and there will be waves of vulnerability to escalating threats for the rest of our days. Its kinda the combination of technology, king-of-the-hill, and the Tower of Babel.

But there is no choice. We must intervene proactively, and I am thankful that Bush, Cheney, and Rumsfield understand that. The fact that Bush hasn't attacked yet strengthens my belief in his judgement, patience, and ability to find a successful strategy. How lucky we are to have the calibre of leaders and counselors at this point in time. We have been forced into taking action, and the only debate is to how. There is no alternative. Let the other nations cry about how we cannot take Canaan, I will side with our own Moses, Joshua, and Caleb.