Thomas;

Actually, the first memories about Iraq (Babylon, etc) are in my childhood when somebody tried to raise a religious boy so they fed me with lots of Bible doses.
As you know is very difficult to agree in a high percentage of the contents when people chat about political beliefs, views, opinions, affairs, principles, etc. (even religion and sports sometimes)
However in this case all I have to say is: Your approach in this topic it’s almost an accurate reflection of my thoughts. And… yep, fortunately we’re not presidents.

>Fabian;
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>Try this for a quick history of Iraq.
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>http://home.achilles.net/~sal/iraq_history.html
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>As far as the rest of the world, at any point in history you will find countries at war, civil war, ruled by dictators or people of a nation being suppressed. Others interpret many of these conditions. To resolve all of the world’s issues and have a perfect planet is impossible. For one nation, the United States to assume the part of world peacekeeper and insure the tranquility of the world is absurd!
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>The United States will selectively act to control other nations as it sees fit. Dependent factors include which administration is in power and how it feels on any given issue. We act selectively according to the needs of the administration, as it perceives the relationship we have with the rest of the world. Actions may include economic, political, diplomatic or military actions.
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>At this time I would estimate there are about 50 nations who are candidates for governmental replacement. I base this upon how certain governments treat their citizens and the citizens of other nations. China is but one of these nations. Perhaps these same 50 nations want to change the United States to meet its ideal of how a nation should be modeled!
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>To invade another nation is to violate its national sovereignty. When should this be done? Why are we selective when there are so many nations that are not “perfect”?
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>I like your examples of "fat" (well fed) and "skinny" (hungry) cows. The 7 year itch, and Lemmings 7 year cycle come to mind. Where is the cliff?
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>People suffer all over the world. I cannot solve all the worlds problems. Adding to the problems is not a good idea in my book.
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>The belligerence of the United States is not appreciated by many nations of the world. At this time we seem too intolerant towards others.
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>Diplomacy may not be full of truth but it does appreciate tolerance and patience among other qualities. President Bush is not a diplomatic person. If President Bush were to use his approach of diplomacy as a Poker player, he would place all his cards face up and say, “Gentlemen, place your bets”! Diplomacy dictates you never revel your hand but rather negotiate your position. You give and take as is acceptable amongst the parties concerned. You do not pull out your gun and threaten, “Give me what I want or I will shoot”!
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>Think of the good in all of this - neither of us is President! :)
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>Tom