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I'm sorry to say I was underwhelmed by the hostages and their families. Not that I don't feel extreme compassion for their situations. Not that I wish anything for them but a peaceful resolution and return to their homes in the very near future.

But it just seemed like a whole lot of whining and begging to me. I swear, if I'd have had five months to think about what I might say if I had the chance, I promise you I'd have first told my family that I may very well die but I want you to know I believe in my country and our mission. I knew what the risk was when I took the job, and I may end up losing. Please go on without me and lose no sleep over the state of my conscience and my soul. I'd also have crafted a clear message to President Bush that he is absolutely right not to negotiate with these terrorists.

Let's just put it this way: there wasn't a Jeremiah Denton in the group.

I will pray for these Americans and I fervently hope we can secure their safe return. But if they do return, I fully anticipate hearing them tell us their mission was a joke, the war against drugs is a joke, and the Bush administration left them high and dry.