What A Year It's Been
By Jon Alvarez (12/17/03)
Wow, what a year 2003 has been for America and the world. I have learned quite a lot this year, not only about myself, but also about my fellow countrymen and the world in which we live. Much of this new insight has centered around the War on Terror. Prior to January of this year, I would not have considered myself to be much of a political activist.
In fact, I'd have to say that up to that point in my life, I was very representative of mainstream America. While I had become more politically aware since 9/11, I had not encountered the impetus that would transform me from an apathetic couch potato into a patriotic activist.
One of the most important lessons learned this year is that it is important for us to do what we feel is right, regardless of what others might think. Prior to 2003, I most certainly would not have stood out in public to express my opinion. So what drove me to step out of my comfort zone and become involved in the fight for the future of America? I had become incensed upon hearing the news of anti-war protests taking place around the world, especially here in my own backyard. While respecting the right of the anti-war crowd to protest, their message was not representative of mine. I felt the need to have my voice heard. It is only when other Americans are effected by the action of others will they, too, join the fight.
My life has radically changed over the course of the year. From organizing and participating in patriotic rallies to creating an organization dedicated to boycotting anti-American Hollywood, I've been able to shrug off the indifference that seems to hold so many of my fellow countrymen in such a tight grip. I've become motivated to stand up for what I feel is right versus those forces at work which seem intent on destroying the fabric of our wonderful country. It's been a gradual process for me, but one that has been more rewarding than anything I've ever done in my life. I can't help but wonder if Sam Adams and the Sons of Liberty experienced the same sense of purpose and accomplishment as I've felt this year?
Apathy would have to be considered our greatest enemy in the struggles our country faces. It's easy to recognize the role apathy has played with regards to many of the predicaments our society faces today. By remaining silent, we've witnessed the gradual erosion of America's traditional values and mores. The turning point in 2003 could very well be the controversy surrounding Senator Rick Santorum and the Pandora's Box opened by the Supreme Court concerning homosexuality. We have since become inundated with gay television programming and talk of gay marriage. Polygamists and NAMBLA members seeking the freedom to practice their beliefs will surely be heard from in the near future. Where do we draw the line?
We've also seen the Pledge of Allegiance come under attack for its reference to God. We've witnessed a court battle over the removal of the Ten Commandments in Alabama and concerted efforts to remove references to Christmas within our schools. Just recently the FCC has approved the use of the "F-word" on television. Are we witnessing the decline and fall of America? When does this all-out assault on American values end? Could 2003 be seen as the turning point, when Americans decided to speak out, to no longer allow their silence to be misinterpreted as acceptance?
Apathy has certainly played a role concerning world affairs. We've allowed terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda and rogue states like Saddam Hussein's Iraq to exist and plot with little concern. Only after 9/11 have we been forced to deal with these threats. Our view of the world has certainly changed. We've had to reevaluate relationships with those whom we had long considered our allies. The United Nations has proven itself to be a corrupt and inept institution, which has lost all of its credibility. I, for one, do not wish to die knowing my daughter may have to live in a world dominated by such an organization. For the life of me, I cannot understand those people who would prefer to surrender our autonomy to such a body. Our future interests will be best served in a manner that is independent of the United Nations.
On a final note, what better way to cap off the year than with news of the capture of Saddam Hussein! This is certainly most excellent news for the forces of good versus evil. History will look back on 2003 and wonder why there was so much controversy over the removal of such an evil man. Of course, those on the wrong side of history, the Democrats and their allies in the United Nations, will surely find something to criticize concerning this historic occasion. My condolences go out to the pro-Saddam forces in Hollywood, who will surely regard this as unwelcomed news. Wasn't it great to hear the people of Iraq cheer and celebrate the news of his capture? How appropriate that this cowardly man was captured hiding in what is called a "rat hole".
If we've learned anything from this year, it's that we should do what we feel is right, regardless of what others might think. It's this kind of attitude that enabled us to exact change in Iraq, not only to aid in the War on Terror, but also for the betterment of the people of Iraq. It is critical that we continue the battle versus the left in America and their campaign to further erode our country's values. In 2003 we've seen that American attitudes have continued to change for the better. The ranks of the patriots in this country continue to swell as more people become aware of the challenges our country faces. Patriotism and pride in country have continued to surge as as result. It's up to all of us to make an even bigger difference in 2004.
"It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds" ~ Samuel Adams
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