I wish it could be better understood that people do not “want” to go to war. In a perfect world there would be no such concept as war. Surprise! We do not live in a perfect world, and thinking that we can achieve that perfection is about as real as an Oscar nomination for Steve Gutenberg.
I cannot begin to explain how angered I was to return to my home in San Francisco for spring break to witness the destruction and chaos caused by protesters in response to our nation’s decision to eradicate a frightening leader and regime of an extremely volatile country.
First off, the only aspect that is more idiotic than disgruntled protesting in the first place is protesting something that is already in effect, especially a declared war. Though I may have not agreed with the numerous protests that preceded the war, at least the individuals involved with those demonstrations were trying to prevent something from happening. Though there are more productive, effective and efficient ways that should have been explored more vigorously, at least the pre-war protesters had somewhat of a glimpse of reality in their actions. However, when I saw the number of extremists protesting days and days after the coalition forces entered Iraq, I was disgusted and disappointed to see how many unrealistic and ignorant people there are in this country.
Because of the crazed protests in San Francisco, police were working an unbudgeted $1 million in overtime daily, retailers were losing thousands of dollars due to hesitant shoppers, and traffic congestion was causing millions of hard working Americans to lose precious time with families and personal interests as well as wasting high-priced petroleum. And all of this in San Francisco alone! Protesters, what the hell are you trying to accomplish?
Call me conservative, but I do not believe that the “Yoga for Peace” demonstration — clouded with tie-dyed shirts, dreadlocks and pot smoke — that closed off downtown San Francisco’s economically important Market Street is going to convince our country’s administration to withdraw our troops from Iraq. All that these overzealous protesters are achieving is instability and economic disaster for a country already in an unfortunate recession.
I praise protesters for the motivation that they exhibit. I believe it is important to be passionate in life and that people should work and fight diligently for what they believe in; however, there is idealism, and there is realism. If you want to evoke change or make a difference, try doing something productive, not destructive. Raise money to aid in relief and support for the Iraqi people, start a letter campaign, create a petition, or throw on a suit and tie and set up a meeting with your local politician! Try working with the system — you might be surprised.
We are at war whether we like it or not, so we may as well deal with it in an appropriate, productive and dignified fashion. No one wants to go to war, but sometimes there is no other choice — and this is one of those times. Love your country, and be proud and thankful that you live here.