Hey, Russia! They Don't Call Us The United States For Nothing.

The sharks are circling and the propaganda is beginning. Igor Panarin (professor and Russian scholar) is predicting that the United States' current financial crisis will lead to the breakup of the country, into six (or seven) regions. The Pacific, the South, the Atlantic coast, central states, northern states, Texas (I thought they were their own country), and thrown into the "mix of six" is Alaska, which he feels could become another Russian territory. Yes, they have picked out their own piece of real estate. If Sarah Palin can see them...they can see her, Tina Fey...Ahem. Let me ask you America, which country would you trust to be your ally? Russia? Venezuela? China? Get the picture? Russian warships sailed into Venezuela's port today to rattle sabres clearly meant for the United States. Apparently, the Kremlin is angry over the United States' decision to send warships, delivering aid to Georgia after its conflict with Russia, and their plans for a missile-defense system in Europe. President Dmitry Medvedev's visit coincides with the naval presence. We need to keep our eye on the ball and watch the bases. Washington needs monitoring and so does the rest of the world. Real life presents more twists and turns than any video game. My fellow Americans, we got snookered by our own press during this past election. Let's not fall prey to foreign propaganda next. President Abraham Lincoln felt a portion of this biblical quote inspirational enough to include in his own "House Divided" speech. From the Bible, Matthew 12:25 (King James Version): "And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand". Even though Lincoln was talking about the slavery issue at the time, I feel this segment of his speech is appropriate for any occasion which formulates (either founded or unfounded) the possibility of division. "I do not expect the Union to be dissolved -- I do not expect the house to fall -- but I do expect it will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing, or all the other." Even if you did not vote for President-elect Obama (I did not) you must admit he has been dealt a hand with the cards clearly stacked against him. He has, by now, been totally immersed in matters pertaining to the "State of the Union". His wide eyed optimism has been replaced with a reality check. Obama has to hit the ground running and that will require every American's support. If you have a plan to make America stronger you should share it. Stop gathering in grumbling "clicks" and know that some foreign countries are looking to us as an example. Let's not let Washington run over our personal freedoms, but let's not help foreign foes feel like we are easy pickings.

Note: Voiced perception can be diliberate deception.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 11-25-08