Holly,

As perhaps one of the more liberal members of the group, I guess I feel the need to make a disclaimer to your disclaimer!

I am pretty much anti-military, though I realize total de-militarization of the entire world will probably remain just a wild fantasy in the minds of us crazed liberals! I agree that, as a nation, we need to protect ourselves from our enemies (real ones, though - not just perceived). I'm just not sure of how much military "muscle" we really need. The media and the government are great at distorting the facts.

I do, however, have respect for those who choose to enter the military. While I used to have a fairly negative stereotyped view of the typical military person (prejudices come in all forms), I've come to see that most people in uniform are just regular folks who've chosen a different career. This was due mainly to the fact that one of my best friend's husband decided on a career with the Marines (YIKES! I said!). He has come such a long way in terms of his self-confidence and leadership ability. AND, they have a house, medical insurance, low-cost food and other purchases at the commissary, among other benefits, all paid for, which they'd never be able to afford with three kids.

So, Holly, we may not see eye to eye, but I am certainly open to hearing more about your viewpoint on things, regardless of how conservative you may think you are. And I hope you are open to my views, as well. As John would say, "Because that's what Archipelago is all about!" Frankly, I think conservatism is in the eye of the beholder. I sometimes shock my friends with what they think are very conservative views!