NationStates Jolt Archive

I have to say this was one of the better presidential speeches of all time... I didn't watch it live so I don't know how good the delivery was, but the text is right up there with JKF's "bear any burden" and Reagan's "empire of ideals".

NOTE: This is in the public domain since it is a work for hire made for the US Government; it is legally ok to reproduce in full.

http://www.cnn.com/2005/ALLPOLITICS/01/20/bush.transcript/index.html

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- President Bush delivered his second inaugural address Thursday after being sworn in for a second term. This is a transcript of his remarks:

Vice President Cheney, Mr. Chief Justice, President Carter, President Bush, President Clinton, members of the United States Congress, reverend clergy, distinguished guests, fellow citizens:

On this day, prescribed by law and marked by ceremony, we celebrate the durable wisdom of our Constitution and recall the deep commitments that unite our country. I am grateful for the honor of this hour, mindful of the consequential times in which we live and determined to fulfill the oath that I have sworn and you have witnessed.

At this second gathering, our duties are defined not by the words I use, but by the history we have seen together. For a half-century, America defended our own freedom by standing watch on distant borders. After the shipwreck of communism came years of relative quiet, years of repose, years of sabbatical -- and then there came a day of fire.

We have seen our vulnerability, and we have seen its deepest source. For as long as whole regions of the world simmer in resentment and tyranny -- prone to ideologies that feed hatred and excuse murder -- violence will gather, and multiply in destructive power, and cross the most defended borders and raise a mortal threat.

There is only one force of history that can break the reign of hatred and resentment and expose the pretensions of tyrants and reward the hopes of the decent and tolerant. And that is the force of human freedom.

We are led, by events and common sense, to one conclusion: The survival of liberty in our land increasingly depends on the success of liberty in other lands. The best hope for peace in our world is the expansion of freedom in all the world.

America's vital interests and our deepest beliefs are now one. From the day of our founding, we have proclaimed that every man and woman on this Earth has rights, and dignity and matchless value because they bear the image of the maker of heaven and Earth.

Across the generations, we have proclaimed the imperative of self-government, because no one is fit to be a master, and no one deserves to be a slave. Advancing these ideals is the mission that created our nation. It is the honorable achievement of our fathers. Now it is the urgent requirement of our nation's security and the calling of our time.

So it is the policy of the United States to seek and support the growth of democratic movements and institutions in every nation and culture, with the ultimate goal of ending tyranny in our world.

This is not primarily the task of arms, though we will defend ourselves and our friends by force of arms when necessary. Freedom, by its nature, must be chosen and defended by citizens and sustained by the rule of law and the protection of minorities. And when the soul of a nation finally speaks, the institutions that arise may reflect customs and traditions very different from our own.

America will not impose our own style of government on the unwilling. Our goal instead is to help others find their own voice, attain their own freedom and make their own way.

The great objective of ending tyranny is the concentrated work of generations. The difficulty of the task is no excuse for avoiding it. America's influence is not unlimited, but fortunately for the oppressed, America's influence is considerable, and we will use it confidently in freedom's cause.

My most solemn duty is to protect this nation and its people from further attacks and emerging threats. Some have unwisely chosen to test America's resolve and have found it firm.

We will persistently clarify the choice before every ruler and every nation -- the moral choice between oppression, which is always wrong, and freedom, which is eternally right. America will not pretend that jailed dissidents prefer their chains, or that women welcome humiliation and servitude or that any human being aspires to live at the mercy of bullies.

We will encourage reform in other governments by making clear that success in our relations will require the decent treatment of their own people. America's belief in human dignity will guide our policies. Yet, rights must be more than the grudging concessions of dictators; they are secured by free dissent and the participation of the governed. In the long run, there is no justice without freedom, and there can be no human rights without human liberty.

Some, I know, have questioned the global appeal of liberty -- though this time in history, four decades defined by the swiftest advance of freedom ever seen, is an odd time for doubt. Americans, of all people, should never be surprised by the power of our ideals. Eventually, the call of freedom comes to every mind and every soul. We do not accept the existence of permanent tyranny because we do not accept the possibility of permanent slavery. Liberty will come to those who love it.

Today, America speaks anew to the peoples of the world:

All who live in tyranny and hopelessness can know: The United States will not ignore your oppression, or excuse your oppressors. When you stand for your liberty, we will stand with you.

Democratic reformers facing repression, prison or exile can know: America sees you for who you are -- the future leaders of your free country.

The rulers of outlaw regimes can know that we still believe as Abraham Lincoln did: "Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves; and, under the rule of a just God, cannot long retain it."

The leaders of governments with long habits of control need to know: To serve your people you must learn to trust them. Start on this journey of progress and justice, and America will walk at your side.

And all the allies of the United States can know: We honor your friendship, we rely on your counsel, and we depend on your help. Division among free nations is a primary goal of freedom's enemies. The concerted effort of free nations to promote democracy is a prelude to our enemies' defeat.

Today, I also speak anew to my fellow citizens:

From all of you, I have asked patience in the hard task of securing America, which you have granted in good measure. Our country has accepted obligations that are difficult to fulfill and would be dishonorable to abandon. Yet because we have acted in the great liberating tradition of this nation, tens of millions have achieved their freedom.

And as hope kindles hope, millions more will find it. By our efforts, we have lit a fire as well -- a fire in the minds of men. It warms those who feel its power, it burns those who fight its progress, and one day this untamed fire of freedom will reach the darkest corners of our world.

A few Americans have accepted the hardest duties in this cause -- in the quiet work of intelligence and diplomacy ... the idealistic work of helping raise up free governments ... the dangerous and necessary work of fighting our enemies. Some have shown their devotion to our country in deaths that honored their whole lives, and we will always honor their names and their sacrifice.

All Americans have witnessed this idealism and some for the first time. I ask our youngest citizens to believe the evidence of your eyes. You have seen duty and allegiance in the determined faces of our soldiers. You have seen that life is fragile, and evil is real, and courage triumphs. Make the choice to serve in a cause larger than your wants, larger than yourself, and in your days you will add not just to the wealth of our country but to its character.

America has need of idealism and courage because we have essential work at home -- the unfinished work of American freedom. In a world moving toward liberty, we are determined to show the meaning and promise of liberty.

In America's ideal of freedom, citizens find the dignity and security of economic independence, instead of laboring on the edge of subsistence. This is the broader definition of liberty that motivated the Homestead Act, the Social Security Act and the GI Bill of Rights. And now we will extend this vision by reforming great institutions to serve the needs of our time.

To give every American a stake in the promise and future of our country, we will bring the highest standards to our schools and build an ownership society. We will widen the ownership of homes and businesses, retirement savings and health insurance -- preparing our people for the challenges of life in a free society.

By making every citizen an agent of his or her own destiny, we will give our fellow Americans greater freedom from want and fear and make our society more prosperous and just and equal.

In America's ideal of freedom, the public interest depends on private character -- on integrity and tolerance toward others and the rule of conscience in our own lives. Self-government relies, in the end, on the governing of the self.

That edifice of character is built in families, supported by communities with standards,and sustained in our national life by the truths of Sinai, the Sermon on the Mount, the words of the Koran and the varied faiths of our people. Americans move forward in every generation by reaffirming all that is good and true that came before -- ideals of justice and conduct that are the same yesterday, today and forever.

In America's ideal of freedom, the exercise of rights is ennobled by service and mercy and a heart for the weak. Liberty for all does not mean independence from one another. Our nation relies on men and women who look after a neighbor and surround the lost with love.

Americans, at our best, value the life we see in one another and must always remember that even the unwanted have worth. And our country must abandon all the habits of racism because we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time.

From the perspective of a single day, including this day of dedication, the issues and questions before our country are many. From the viewpoint of centuries, the questions that come to us are narrowed and few. Did our generation advance the cause of freedom? And did our character bring credit to that cause?

These questions that judge us also unite us, because Americans of every party and background, Americans by choice and by birth, are bound to one another in the cause of freedom. We have known divisions, which must be healed to move forward in great purposes -- and I will strive in good faith to heal them.

Yet those divisions do not define America. We felt the unity and fellowship of our nation when freedom came under attack, and our response came like a single hand over a single heart. And we can feel that same unity and pride whenever America acts for good, and the victims of disaster are given hope, and the unjust encounter justice, and the captives are set free.

We go forward with complete confidence in the eventual triumph of freedom. Not because history runs on the wheels of inevitability; it is human choices that move events. Not because we consider ourselves a chosen nation; God moves and chooses as he wills.

We have confidence because freedom is the permanent hope of mankind, the hunger in dark places, the longing of the soul. When our Founders declared a new order of the ages, when soldiers died in wave upon wave for a union based on liberty, when citizens marched in peaceful outrage under the banner "Freedom Now" -- they were acting on an ancient hope that is meant to be fulfilled.

History has an ebb and flow of justice, but history also has a visible direction set by liberty and the author of liberty.

When the Declaration of Independence was first read in public and the Liberty Bell was sounded in celebration, a witness said, "It rang as if it meant something." In our time it means something still.

America, in this young century, proclaims liberty throughout all the world and to all the inhabitants thereof. Renewed in our strength -- tested, but not weary -- we are ready for the greatest achievements in the history of freedom.

May God bless you, and may he watch over the United States of America.

Funny how his high ideals about spreading democracy don't apply to Uzbekistan.

The entire thing is just a face-saver after they pulled out the weapons inspectors. The 9/11 report showed that Iraq had nothing to do with the attack, the weapons inspectors found nothing, so now they are preaching some idealistic views on America's duty to bring freedom. As long as we are fighting against or for vague notions the public can be left in the dark.

But as far as speeches go, it is a pretty good one.

The entire thing is just a face-saver after they pulled out the weapons inspectors. The 9/11 report showed that Iraq had nothing to do with the attack, the weapons inspectors found nothing, so now they are preaching some idealistic views on America's duty to bring freedom. As long as we are fighting against or for vague notions the public can be left in the dark.

But as far as speeches go, it is a pretty good one.

Agreed; It reads very well. Deffinitely American. I do give Bush cookies for this.

Funny how his high ideals about spreading democracy don't apply to Uzbekistan.
Or Pakistan.
This made me laugh:
From the viewpoint of centuries, the questions that come to us are narrowed and few. Did our generation advance the cause of freedom? And did our character bring credit to that cause? :D

I didn't see the speech, but then again, I don't need to actually walk into an outhouse to know what it contains.

Wow, whoever wrote that speech for him must be pretty smart. And he must have practiced too, lots of big words......

I didn't see the speech, but then again, I don't need to actually walk into an outhouse to know what it contains.

You can get a good look at a butcher's ass by sticking your head up there. But, wouldn't you rather to take his word for it?

No, I meant, you can get a good look at a T-bone steak by sticking your head up a butcher's ass... No, wait. It's gotta be your bull.

Not only do I like the speech, I think President Bush believes every word of it.

Now comes the hard part: translating all those high ideals and noble sentiments into action. I wish him well.

Wow, whoever wrote that speech for him must be pretty smart. And he must have practiced too, lots of big words......
:rolleyes:

Not only do I like the speech, I think President Bush believes every word of it.

Now comes the hard part: translating all those high ideals and noble sentiments into action. I wish him well.

It is more than hard, it is impossible.

You can get a good look at a butcher's ass by sticking your head up there. But, wouldn't you rather to take his word for it?

No, I meant, you can get a good look at a T-bone steak by sticking your head up a butcher's ass... No, wait. It's gotta be your bull.
Ay...what movie was that from again? It had me laughing then and it has me laughing now...but it'll bug me all day unless you clue me in:).

As for the speech...I hope they pay that writer well!

If you think Im going to read all that you're nuts.

Ay...what movie was that from again? It had me laughing then and it has me laughing now...but it'll bug me all day unless you clue me in:).

As for the speech...I hope they pay that writer well!

Tommy Boy, the greatest comedy ever.

The 9/11 report showed that Iraq had nothing to do with the attack

Other than probably ordering and financing it...

Not only do I like the speech, I think President Bush believes every word of it.

Agreed.

Now comes the hard part: translating all those high ideals and noble sentiments into action. I wish him well.

Things are coming to a tipping point with the elections in Iraq and with Iran's nuclear program. It is scary as heck, but I don't think we have long to wait.

Other than probably ordering and financing it...

That is exactly what it said.

Not only do I like the speech, I think President Bush believes every word of it.

Now comes the hard part: translating all those high ideals and noble sentiments into action. I wish him well.

I would have said the hardest part was training Bush to say it without making up any words.

It is more than hard, it is impossible.

The improbable we can do today. The impossible takes a bit longer. :)

I didn't watch it live so I don't know how good the delivery was, but the text is right up there with JKF's "bear any burden".
The Text? Yep the text is good, they should pay a golden bonus to the SpeechWriter.http://assets.jolt.co.uk/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif

The delibery? Well...Imagine a chimp reading the Golden text... :gundge:

Tommy Boy, the greatest comedy ever.
Damn, that's right! I'm going to rent it tonight...I love that line...

Things are coming to a tipping point with the elections in Iraq and with Iran's nuclear program. It is scary as heck, but I don't think we have long to wait.

Do you believe in the effectiveness of prayer? If so, pray. If not, meditate. This one is going to be close!

Other than probably ordering and financing it...

I like how you snuck "probably" in there, like you're not really certain, or you can't back it up at all.

Not only do I like the speech, I think President Bush believes every word of it.

Now comes the hard part: translating all those high ideals and noble sentiments into action. I wish him well.
It's not a question on whether or not Bush will try to do it, it's a question of whether or not the commie-libs in Congress will obstruct him.

America will not impose our own style of government on the unwilling. Our goal instead is to help others find their own voice, attain their own freedom and make their own way.

Intriguing, is this not contrary to the nature of the Iraq war? Surely if the people of Iraq had wanted freedom, they would have but to extend their hands and grasp it. No tyrant can work without the cooperation of the people, to some extent. The Nazis taught us this lesson well.

And once they have attained this freedom, should we allow them to slip once more into tyranny? If a people support a tyranny, then surely they have no desire for freedom.

*Tutting*

Many questions remain unanswered, Mr President.....

Not only do I like the speech, I think President Bush believes every word of it.

Except, of course, for the part about bigotry. He's just fine with bigotry as long as it is against a group he doesn't like and isn't actually racism.

It might have been a good speech if a few conditions had been met:

1) Delivered well, as bush is a woeful orator.

2) Had any relevance to actual policies by the government, which it in no way did.

3) Was delivered by somone who believed in and intended to accomplish what was set out.

Unfortunately bush is a rotten politician of limitless and consumate mendacity, and we can expect from the next four years what we witnessed in the last: blustering speeches which either presage actions which are their direct opposite or distract from elitist economic politics.

Other than probably ordering and financing it...

Here you go:

The reports describe friendly contacts and indicate some common themes in both sides' hatred of the United States. But to date we have seen no evidence that these or the earlier contacts ever developed into a collaborative operational relationship. Nor have we seen evidence indicating that Iraq cooperated with al Qaeda in developing or carrying out any attacks on the United States.

The person or people involved in putting this speech together for Mr Bush did a great job, it is a very proud and patriotic work.

I just wonder with all the use of the word freedom and the significant lack of freedom that Bush has given to his people, or the world for that matter. What if we were to swap that word and instead use words like profit and control ? After all it would appear that is the real emphasis of the US and their military strikes (bar Afghanistan). Still no convincing reason has been given to validate the war on Iraq, after all during the build up prior to invasion all the propoganda spread by the allies relied on the Iraqi ability to launch an attack with WMD. Yet once they hit Iraq, corporate slime like CNN labelled it 'Free Iraq' or something to that effect. Talk about working in tangent with the Government! I'd respect the whole war effort a lot more if the real reason was given..

I just have one question ? How many of your european leaders have you ever heard say something so profound. The main mission of our country is to spread freedom, it's now policy. You all can continue spend all of your money on helping yourselves, with free education for all, and free health care. We'll continue to spend all of our money and energy making the world a safer place and spreading democracy. I think you all got a little cynical about power, after it bit you in the ass about 50 years ago. All I can say is that i'm proud, it wont be easy, and look out if you are an opressive regime. Only in the good ol' USA are the people willing to take on such a monumental task at their own expense, with barely help or support against all odds. God bless the USA. Woooohoooooooo. "throws cowboy hat in the air"!!!!!!!!!!!

I would have said the hardest part was training Bush to say it without making up any words.

That's more than hard, its impossible.


They may have played a composite recording while he lip synched

That's more than hard, its impossible.


They may have played a composite recording while he lip synched

lip synching might still be a long shot...

Intriguing, is this not contrary to the nature of the Iraq war? Surely if the people of Iraq had wanted freedom, they would have but to extend their hands and grasp it.

Unfortunately that is not true. Tyranny has been the condition of the human race for millenia. Freedom as we understand it is something new, and quite fragile. History shows us that for the most part peoples cannot liberate themselves without outside help, except in very rare circumstances.

I just have one question ? How many of your european leaders have you ever heard say something so profound. The main mission of our country is to spread freedom, it's now policy. You all can continue spend all of your money on helping yourselves, with free education for all, and free health care. We'll continue to spend all of our money and energy making the world a safer place and spreading democracy. I think you all got a little cynical about power, after it bit you in the ass about 50 years ago. All I can say is that i'm proud, it wont be easy, and look out if you are an opressive regime. Only in the good ol' USA are the people willing to take on such a monumental task at their own expense, with barely help or support against all odds. God bless the USA. Woooohoooooooo. "throws cowboy hat in the air"!!!!!!!!!!!

I find it funny that you are so brainwashed as to believe that Bush doesn't have a personal (and possibly nationwide) agenda in mind. Do you really think he is "bringing freedom" to other countries out of the goodness of his own heart? Of course not! He even stated as much. He is doing so because he believes it increases the national security of our nation.

Do remember that Bush ran on a rather isolationist ticket the first time around. The only reason he changed is because he got scared.

Do you believe in the effectiveness of prayer? If so, pray. If not, meditate. This one is going to be close!

Yep. I see my part as fighting on the information front. Those also serve who sit and type, or something ;)

Seriously, I have spend an amazing number of hours talking to people, and I think I have moved many from "US out of Iraq now!" to "hmm, I wonder if we really could be doing something good there".

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL. Why is this so horrible to you retards. Dont you know that your own weasly polititians are using my president as a patsy for their own failures. I think you need to see through the headlines and look at the true nature of the man. Bringing about change to the world is never easy, but I'm a little disapointed that more world leaders dont help carry the flame of freedom. You would love to see america fail in its mission to bring freedom to the darkest corners of the world, just for a little political gain of your own. I think its disgusting and greedy.

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL. Why is this so horrible to you retards. Dont you know that your own weasly polititians are using my president as a patsy for their own failures. I think you need to see through the headlines and look at the true nature of the man. Bringing about change to the world is never easy, but I'm a little disapointed that more world leaders dont help carry the flame of freedom. You would love to see america fail in its mission to bring freedom to the darkest corners of the world, just for a little political gain of your own. I think its disgusting and greedy.
So, when do we plan on invading Saudie Arabia, Pakistan, or any of those Millitary Goverments the CIA put in place during the Cold War

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL. Why is this so horrible to you retards. Dont you know that your own weasly polititians are using my president as a patsy for their own failures. I think you need to see through the headlines and look at the true nature of the man. Bringing about change to the world is never easy, but I'm a little disapointed that more world leaders dont help carry the flame of freedom. You would love to see america fail in its mission to bring freedom to the darkest corners of the world, just for a little political gain of your own. I think its disgusting and greedy.

The difference is, that while everyone else wants to carry the "flame of freedom" into countries, we don't want to start setting fire to houses with it.

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind is what drives us retards to complain when people start getting limbs blown off in the name of freedom.

That's just my opinion, obviously I can't speak for every retard.

[tag] so I can read later.

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL. Why is this so horrible to you retards. Dont you know that your own weasly polititians are using my president as a patsy for their own failures. I think you need to see through the headlines and look at the true nature of the man. Bringing about change to the world is never easy, but I'm a little disapointed that more world leaders dont help carry the flame of freedom. You would love to see america fail in its mission to bring freedom to the darkest corners of the world, just for a little political gain of your own. I think its disgusting and greedy.

However, you fail to address one knawing question. Freedom on whose terms?
The problem is that the US has repeatedly in the cause of democracy and rights sacrificed those very principles within the nations it has tried to save.

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL. Why is this so horrible to you retards.

Actually, I think that would be absolutely wonderful.

Of course, if you really think that *any* politician would really pursue it with "pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind," particularly Bush, who has quite often shown just the opposite. you are *incredibly* naive.

Heard the speech yet, I'll wait for the dance remix...

Yep. I see my part as fighting on the information front. Those also serve who sit and type, or something ;)

Seriously, I have spend an amazing number of hours talking to people, and I think I have moved many from "US out of Iraq now!" to "hmm, I wonder if we really could be doing something good there".

A daunting task at best. Kudos to you! :)

Heard the speech yet, I'll wait for the dance remix...
best comment on the speech so far

That edifice of character is built in families, supported by communities with standards,and sustained in our national life by the truths of Sinai, the Sermon on the Mount, the words of the Koran and the varied faiths of our people. Americans move forward in every generation by reaffirming all that is good and true that came before -- ideals of justice and conduct that are the same yesterday, today and forever.



Jihad! Jihad! :D

America will not impose our own style of government on the unwilling. Our goal instead is to help others find their own voice, attain their own freedom and make their own way.
Except, apparently, in Iraq. Where we set up the government and are currently delivering democracy through the barrel of a gun. Good job there, Dubya.

we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time.

"Except, of course, for bigotry against homosexuals."
Bush has to deliver on this one: either shut up about freedom or stop discrimination against homosexuals. I hope this line bites him in the ass when he calls for a marraige-banning amendment.

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL. Why is this so horrible to you retards. Dont you know that your own weasly polititians are using my president as a patsy for their own failures. I think you need to see through the headlines and look at the true nature of the man. Bringing about change to the world is never easy, but I'm a little disapointed that more world leaders dont help carry the flame of freedom. You would love to see america fail in its mission to bring freedom to the darkest corners of the world, just for a little political gain of your own. I think its disgusting and greedy.

The intent of freedom is great, but it would appear freedom is having a US military presence in your country and only doing what suits the US government, or else pay the price.
The capitalistic attitude of the US really will never allow it to have true freedom, consider it like a corporation, no act is one of charity, rather there is always a specific reason and benefit from the action. Bound to the dollar you might say.
These types of speeches are great as they are idealistic and patriotic, but look at what history shows us? America has killed more people in the last few decades then any other civilised country. Defending Freedom is similar to the phrase of the day 'war on terrorism'. This ambigous definiation allows America to use its power to defend and openly attack against nation/group that do meet their agenda. Check out Noam Chomsky he has some great info on the matter.
So long as they (the government) can come up with proud pro american speeches which make people feel good and media groups continue to fail in reporting the actual events/scandals etc., little will change. The US really doesn't live up to their word (freedom this freedom that) and unfortunately for me the world will continue to suffer America's terrible political and military presence and influence until something happens (ie. change in government).
Shame really, most Americans I've met are really nice people.

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL.

Except the homos.

And the non-Christians, and the countries that we profit from despite their governments (such as China), and the lower class, and the people with vaguely different views, and...

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL. Why is this so horrible to you retards. Dont you know that your own weasly polititians are using my president as a patsy for their own failures. I think you need to see through the headlines and look at the true nature of the man. Bringing about change to the world is never easy, but I'm a little disapointed that more world leaders dont help carry the flame of freedom. You would love to see america fail in its mission to bring freedom to the darkest corners of the world, just for a little political gain of your own. I think its disgusting and greedy.

It's called a speech. If he had compassion for all mankind, he would have acted in Sudan.

Hmmm what was that frequented Conservative complaint about the US can't be the Policeman of the world?

As to change, read Maciovelli(sp).

It's not easy to send your children to the most wretched places on earth to get shot at by murdering hateful terrorists. I find it hard to believe that some people cant see the big picture. For goodness sake, we still have thousands of american soldiers in GERMANY!!! Do you think that we'll be out of Iraq in a couple years.

Pure unadulterated compassion for all humankind, regardless or race or religion, freedom for all. Not freedom for us ONLY, but FREEDOM FOR ALL*.


*Terms and conditions apply

we cannot carry the message of freedom and the baggage of bigotry at the same time.


What if we take the message of freedom as hand luggage?

The intent of freedom is great, but it would appear freedom is having a US military presence in your country and only doing what suits the US government, or else pay the price.
The capitalistic attitude of the US really will never allow it to have true freedom, consider it like a corporation, no act is one of charity, rather there is always a specific reason and benefit from the action. Bound to the dollar you might say.
These types of speeches are great as they are idealistic and patriotic, but look at what history shows us? America has killed more people in the last few decades then any other civilised country. Defending Freedom is similar to the phrase of the day 'war on terrorism'. This ambigous definiation allows America to use its power to defend and openly attack against nation/group that do meet their agenda. Check out Noam Chomsky he has some great info on the matter.
So long as they (the government) can come up with proud pro american speeches which make people feel good and media groups continue to fail in reporting the actual events/scandals etc., little will change. The US really doesn't live up to their word (freedom this freedom that) and unfortunately for me the world will continue to suffer America's terrible political and military presence and influence until something happens (ie. change in government).
Shame really, most Americans I've met are really nice people.

I am absolutely amazed by the naive approach people think we (humans) go to war...Obviously, the leaders of the country have to say it is in our interests or else the people won't support it (this is true even with facist countries since the beginning of time)...people don't fight out of just love.
Also, people get shocked by the "propaganda" from the Bush Adminstration about the war, this above post only slightly mentions it (the media etc.)... to totally lie about a war is bad (but the media makes it impossible anyways nowadays) but to a put a good spin on it is not only logical (I'd imagine America would have pulled out of WW2, if we got gory details and accounts of losses on TV hourly and no propaganda) but smart. The US would be out of Iraq and the lives of solidiers who died in vain if Bush and his supporters didn't put a good shake on things.

Thus freedom for others can only be a point (not the sole point) of an attack because any population won't help people militarily anyways. Given the chance today, I'd like to see how many European countries would come to the aide of Rwanda if their horrific genocide began today...that is supply troops, sacrifice lives for a cause that is someone elses...I'd imagine only the ones who stated that "freedom in Rwanda helps us" campaign would be able to go.
Also, this is a non-fact based point that has no backing attached but I'll say it anyways: Noam Chomsky=Royal Douche...but who would expect anything more from a linguist teaching at MIT.

It's not easy to send your children to the most wretched places on earth to get shot at by murdering hateful terrorists. I find it hard to believe that some people cant see the big picture. For goodness sake, we still have thousands of american soldiers in GERMANY!!! Do you think that we'll be out of Iraq in a couple years.

The big picture is a bit too big for you perhaps. Do us a favour and replace some poor young man fighting the war that he did not want. Its obvious you want it, you fight for it.

the word homosexual should never be found written in any law for or against. I know in europe they are protected like an endangered species. Save the gays!!!! But here in the usa we dont think they are a social group. They should not be singled out for anything.

The big picture is a bit too big for you perhaps. Do us a favour and replace some poor young man fighting the war that he did not want. Its obvious you want it, you fight for it.
We have a professional force, everyone volunteers, everyone gets paid. If you are an american and you dont want to fight wars then dont join the military.

the word homosexual should never be found written in any law for or against. I know in europe they are protected like an endangered species. Save the gays!!!! But here in the usa we dont think they are a social group. They should not be singled out for anything.

what about marriage and adoption?

It's not easy to send your children to the most wretched places on earth to get shot at by murdering hateful terrorists. I find it hard to believe that some people cant see the big picture. For goodness sake, we still have thousands of american soldiers in GERMANY!!! Do you think that we'll be out of Iraq in a couple years.
So when are the Bush daughters going? And I repeat when are we going to invade Saudi Arabia, I mean so what if they payed to get him back on his feet after he drove his early buisnesses in to the ground due to being a drunk. They actually have ties to Bin Ladin and their people are also opressed my a radical Islamic Monarchy.

I'd like to see how many European countries would come to the aide of Rwanda if their horrific genocide began today...that is supply troops, sacrifice lives for a cause that is someone elses...I'd imagine only the ones who stated that "freedom in Rwanda helps us" campaign would be able to go.


You actually think the shrub would commit troops to Rwanda if the genocide happened today?

It was a great speech, and I comend Bush for doing it without butchering the english language. I believe that within the next four years, you will see these things will happen. Hopefully, North Korea and Iran will end their weapons programs (hopefully we'll end ours, too), the economy will be back on track, if not doing better, more and more countries will begin to convert to democracy, and hopefully the gay marriage issue will be settled (NO ONE is trying to discriminate against them- they're trying to keep a sacred practrice the way it is. Yes, gays deserve rights. Yes, they deserve all the tax breaks, etc. We know that.) All in all, it was an awesome speech by Bush. Now, if we'd support him a little more, instead of naming him the anti-christ, we could get things done. You don't have to agree with someone to support them. Take Clinton. I don't agree with him, but yet, I support his actions, and support his efforts on the tsunmani relief. *Applauds for Clinton*

Now, who supports their country? *Applauds for Bush's speech*

You'll see. ;)

the word homosexual should never be found written in any law for or against. I know in europe they are protected like an endangered species. Save the gays!!!! But here in the usa we dont think they are a social group. They should not be singled out for anything.

*sniff*

I think we have a Christian here.

Yup you are right. We don't need laws to protect them. That would get in the way of the Christian fun of bashing them and or killing them.

what about marriage and adoption?
What about it? When two man can have a baby naturally, then so be it but until then lets leave the child bearing to the women. Marriage is defined as a holy/legal union of a man and a woman. Look it up, it's in the book of common sense page 1 verse 1.

It was a great speech, and I comend Bush for doing it without butchering the english language.*snip*

Meh!

Actions speak louder then words.

Part of the family is from Missura!

So I am going to take the "show me" stance.....

*sniff*

I think we have a Christian here.

Yup you are right. We don't need laws to protect them. That would get in the way of the Christian fun of bashing them and or killing them.
Wouldn't the pre-existing laws banning the killing of people be sufficient?

What about it? When two man can have a baby naturally, then so be it but until then lets leave the child bearing to the women. Marriage is defined as a holy/legal union of a man and a woman. Look it up, it's in the book of common sense page 1 verse 1.

So men and women that can't have a baby naturally can't adopt either then, as that's not natural?

Cannot gay men or women be given the same legal rights as a married couple?

Might want to double check that book of yours.

What about it? When two man can have a baby naturally, then so be it but until then lets leave the child bearing to the women. Marriage is defined as a holy/legal union of a man and a woman. Look it up, it's in the book of common sense page 1 verse 1.

When the orphanages(ie the state) are empty of children, you are right.

However, there are many children that probably will not get a home because they are too old, have issues, etc.

If a child can get a loving home, then it doesn't matter if they are straight or gay.

Meh!

Actions speak louder then words.

Part of the family is from Missura!

So I am going to take the "show me" stance.....

*Is from Missouri*

Kiss it, bub. You'll see. ;)

Marriage is defined as a holy/legal union of a man and a woman. Look it up, it's in the book of common sense page 1 verse 1.

Ah, so we shouldn't give special protections to the homosexual and they shouldn't get equal protection either. That's obviously what you really meant to say.

Wouldn't the pre-existing laws banning the killing of people be sufficient?

You would think.

Part of the reason for special case punishments is to "motivate" people not to do them.

There are many Christian hicks(I have family that wears that banner) that see no problem with fag bashing.

So I don't see a problem with creating hate crime laws.

you'll be sorry for making ratarded arguments with me, I dont feel like you will ever get anything that is the truth through your thick skull. So ponder this Profound truth while I feel sorry for you.

Caged Saddam To Be Highlight Of Inaugural Ball
WASHINGTON, DC—Attendees at the Independence Ball, one of nine officially sanctioned galas celebrating President George W. Bush's second inauguration Thursday, will be treated to a viewing of a caged Saddam Hussein, White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said Monday. "What better way to honor the president than with a physical symbol of his many first-term triumphs?" McClellan said as Hussein rattled the bars of a cage already suspended above the ballroom where the event will be held. "And I must compliment the planning committee. Outfitting Gitmo detainees with iron collars and forcing them to serve appetizers was an inspired stroke." Ball attendees will also be awarded door prizes, including a basket of nuts, 20 yards of cloth, and a barrel of crude oil.

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When the orphanages(ie the state) are empty of children, you are right.

However, there are many children that probably will not get a home because they are too old, have issues, etc.

If a child can get a loving home, then it doesn't matter if they are straight or gay.

You're quite right, if they can get a loving home it shouldn't matter. Not at all. The only thing I'd be worried about is the psychological health of the child. Try to think: what would it be like to have gay parents? It'd fuck the kid's head, society telling them that homosexuyality is wrong, kids making fun of them because of their family. Not good. I have a friend whose mother is a homosexual. It's tough for him. His mom is a good mother, loving, caring, and nice to me as well. But god damn that kid is fucked up in the head.

[/QUOTE/]Originally Posted by Blessed Assurance
It's not easy to send your children to the most wretched places on earth to get shot at by murdering hateful terrorists. I find it hard to believe that some people cant see the big picture. For goodness sake, we still have thousands of american soldiers in GERMANY!!! Do you think that we'll be out of Iraq in a couple years.[/QUOTE/]


So when are the Bush daughters going? And I repeat when are we going to invade Saudi Arabia, I mean so what if they payed to get him back on his feet after he drove his early buisnesses in to the ground due to being a drunk. They actually have ties to Bin Ladin and their people are also opressed my a radical Islamic Monarchy.

You're quite right, if they can get a loving home it shouldn't matter. Not at all. The only thing I'd be worried about is the psychological health of the child. Try to think: what would it be like to have gay parents? It'd fuck the kid's head, society telling them that homosexuyality is wrong, kids making fun of them because of their family. Not good. I have a friend whose mother is a homosexual. It's tough for him. His mom is a good mother, loving, caring, and nice to me as well. But god damn that kid is fucked up in the head.

This could be said of *anything*. If a person's parents are overweight, they are made fun of. If a person's mother has a weird mole, they are made fun of. If someone's parents are in the public eye, they are made fun of.

Studies have shown, however, that most children raised by gay couples are perfectly normal, although they have a tendency to be overall more tolerant.

I'd like to see how many European countries would come to the aide of Rwanda if their horrific genocide began today...that is supply troops, sacrifice lives for a cause that is someone elses...I'd imagine only the ones who stated that "freedom in Rwanda helps us" campaign would be able to go.
You actually think the shrub would commit troops to Rwanda if the genocide happened today?


I know Clinton didn't send...And I know that the Bush Adminstration did more in Sudan than the Clintons did (which is by no means a compliment...Clinton not calling it a 'genocide' directly costed all those lives)

Also, Bush I believe would put real pressure on Rwanda but troops (I guess your right The BF) no. But, frankly I'd be a little uneasy about sending troops if I was president...that is w/o the hindsight we all have now...

This could be said of *anything*. If a person's parents are overweight, they are made fun of. If a person's mother has a weird mole, they are made fun of. If someone's parents are in the public eye, they are made fun of.

Studies have shown, however, that most children raised by gay couples are perfectly normal, although they have a tendency to be overall more tolerant.
Well damn we wouldn't want that. More tolerant you say my what is this world coming to. ;)

you'll be sorry for making ratarded arguments with me, I dont feel like you will ever get anything that is the truth through your thick skull. So ponder this Profound truth while I feel sorry for you....


I know! In order to clinch this argument I'll paste an irrelevant comment from a satirical magazine.

Also it's spelled retarded.

You're quite right, if they can get a loving home it shouldn't matter. Not at all. The only thing I'd be worried about is the psychological health of the child. Try to think: what would it be like to have gay parents? It'd fuck the kid's head, society telling them that homosexuyality is wrong, kids making fun of them because of their family. Not good. I have a friend whose mother is a homosexual. It's tough for him. His mom is a good mother, loving, caring, and nice to me as well. But god damn that kid is fucked up in the head.

It's a reasonable concern but it depends on how the two raise the child and where they live. Most gays understand the situation and will respond as needed.

I know of one gay couple that adopted a retarded boy. How many straights are going to do that?

It's a reasonable concern but it depends on how the two raise the child and where they live. Most gays understand the situation and will respond as needed.

I know of one gay couple that adopted a retarded boy. How many straights are going to do that?

I would...

you'll be sorry for making ratarded arguments with me, I dont feel like you will ever get anything that is the truth through your thick skull.

You are right, Im sorry because having an argument with you is like arguing with a brick wall. Little response nor logical argument.
Seriously, you should consider joining the forces, you should do more for your country!

This could be said of *anything*. If a person's parents are overweight, they are made fun of. If a person's mother has a weird mole, they are made fun of. If someone's parents are in the public eye, they are made fun of.

Studies have shown, however, that most children raised by gay couples are perfectly normal, although they have a tendency to be overall more tolerant.

Being overweight isn't viewed as wrong. Weird moles aren't viewed as wrong. Homosexuality is much, much different. I'm not saying it will happen, I'm saying it could happen. But yes, children with gay parents do grow up normal, except they aren't spanked quite as often. (God forbid you have to spank your kids)

Also, I'd like to apoligize to you for calling you a bitch that one time. It was irriational of me, and I was having a hissy fit. I'm sorry.

I know Clinton didn't send...And I know that the Bush Adminstration did more in Sudan than the Clintons did (which is by no means a compliment...Clinton not calling it a 'genocide' directly costed all those lives)

Also, Bush I believe would put real pressure on Rwanda but troops (I guess your right The BF) no. But, frankly I'd be a little uneasy about sending troops if I was president...that is w/o the hindsight we all have now...

Oh don't get me going about Clinton and Rwanda. Poll driven President! :rolleyes:

If genocide happened in Rwanda today, the same outcome would happen. It is a poor country. Probably one of the poorest in the world. They have nothing except tourism for the great park(ie the mountain gorillas).

Troops with guns would have prevented much of the slaughter. Why? Most of the killing was done with machettes, spears, etc.

To the Rwandans credit of their promise of never again; they are one of the few countries that sent soldiers to the Sudan.

I would...

If you truely belive that, then it says a great deal about your character.

It's no simple task to take on a child like that! :)

Being overweight isn't viewed as wrong. Weird moles aren't viewed as wrong.

They are by children.

Also, I'd like to apoligize to you for calling you a bitch that one time. It was irriational of me, and I was having a hissy fit. I'm sorry.

No problem. I had actually forgotten. =)

Being overweight isn't viewed as wrong. Weird moles aren't viewed as wrong. Homosexuality is much, much different. I'm not saying it will happen, I'm saying it could happen. But yes, children with gay parents do grow up normal, except they aren't spanked quite as often. (God forbid you have to spank your kids)

Also, I'd like to apoligize to you for calling you a bitch that one time. It was irriational of me, and I was having a hissy fit. I'm sorry.
People once said inter-racial marriage was wrong and harrased people based on that, so should we never have allowed that?

If you truely belive that, then it says a great deal about your character.

It's no simple task to take on a child like that! :)

It may be my only redeeming feature, but I really think I could do it, and love every damn minute of it.

Okay, let's not spend all our time talking about gays or whatever... that's not particularly relevant to the speech.

I'd like to get some responses to the main point which is that spreading freedom everywhere in the world is now official US foreign policy. I don't think that statement has ever been made before? Reagan spoke of "preserving freedom" but that's pretty different.

Okay, let's not spend all our time talking about gays or whatever... that's not particularly relevant to the speech.

I'd like to get some responses to the main point which is that spreading freedom everywhere in the world is now official US foreign policy. I don't think that statement has ever been made before? Reagan spoke of "preserving freedom" but that's pretty different.

Foreign policy should at some point involve the input of the foreign countries, not "We're here with some freedom, and a lot of weapons, now step aside and watch how its done!"

Okay, let's not spend all our time talking about gays or whatever... that's not particularly relevant to the speech.

I'd like to get some responses to the main point which is that spreading freedom everywhere in the world is now official US foreign policy. I don't think that statement has ever been made before? Reagan spoke of "preserving freedom" but that's pretty different.
As the whole gay issue shows we still haven't got fredom for all the people in this country yet, so maybe we should start with that?

Okay, let's not spend all our time talking about gays or whatever... that's not particularly relevant to the speech.

I'd like to get some responses to the main point which is that spreading freedom everywhere in the world is now official US foreign policy. I don't think that statement has ever been made before? Reagan spoke of "preserving freedom" but that's pretty different.


It is hardly 'official US foreing policy'

Bush you see has a rather strong history of giving speeches where he makes lots of blustering lies.

Foreign policy should at some point involve the input of the foreign countries, not "We're here with some freedom, and a lot of weapons, now step aside and watch how its done!"

No? That sounds pretty good actually ;)

Are you familiar with the NH state motto? "Live Free Or Die"?


The problem with "foreign countries" is that many of them are really "foreign rulers" which is not the same thing at all. I don't think we should give a rat's ass for the input of *foreign rulers*. After we have blown them to kingdom come and set up free elections, the people's voice will be heard.

As the whole gay issue shows we still haven't got fredom for all the people in this country yet, so maybe we should start with that?

I think the whole gay thing is completely blown out of any proportion. Nobody is lynching gay people. They are free to do whatever they want. I fail to see the lack of freedom?

Also I really don't want to get drawn into a discussion of this. Start another thread if you want to talk about that.

I have to say this was one of the better presidential speeches of all time... I didn't watch it live so I don't know how good the delivery was, but the text is right up there with JKF's "bear any burden" and Reagan's "empire of ideals".

I am glad that he had a good speech. But what are the chances he actually wrote it himself.... ?

That's more than hard, its impossible.
Then we will have to turn the impossible into the possible. It's going to take work (*gasp* *horror*) and it's going to take sacrifice (*bigger gasp* *more horror*), but we can, we should, and we will do it.

Personally, I just wish he'd go on vacation some more. I didn't read the speech. I don't listen to anything Bush says anymore.

I am glad that he had a good speech. But what are the chances he actually wrote it himself.... ?

Mike Gerson writes them. However, the themes come from the president, who records ideas on tape and then edits the final product.

http://www.usatoday.com/life/2001-04-11-bush-speechwriter.htm
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6790433/
http://www.21stcentury.com.cn/print.php?sid=17158

I think this is basically Bush speaking with "extra eloquence added".

Now that he's inaugurated...can Shrubs pleeeeaaaaasse take another ridiculously long vacation to Crawford? And can Cheney go back the the undisclosed location for a while? Then we could maybe get some stuff done before they come back and trash the country again.

Now that he's inaugurated...can Shrubs pleeeeaaaaasse take another ridiculously long vacation to Crawford? And can Cheney go back the the undisclosed location for a while? Then we could maybe get some stuff done before they come back and trash the country again.

Um, no, the next invasion is planned for a few weeks from now. Didn't you get the memo?

I'll simply say that actions speak much louder than words, and few (if any) of Bush's actions have impressed me in any way...time will tell.

However...

Originally uttered by George W. Bush

Today, I also speak anew to my fellow citizens:

From all of you, I have asked patience in the hard task of securing America, which you have granted in good measure. Our country has accepted obligations that are difficult to fulfill and would be dishonorable to abandon. Yet because we have acted in the great liberating tradition of this nation, tens of millions have achieved their freedom...


...All Americans have witnessed this idealism and some for the first time. I ask our youngest citizens to believe the evidence of your eyes. You have seen duty and allegiance in the determined faces of our soldiers. You have seen that life is fragile, and evil is real, and courage triumphs. Make the choice to serve in a cause larger than your wants, larger than yourself, and in your days you will add not just to the wealth of our country but to its character.

Thanks Mr. President. Good to know that you desperatly need more troops...since recruiting is at a record low, and you have another war to start. Iran? North Korea? Canada? We might as well know now who your next target is, as there is nothing anybody can do to stop you, short of a military coup. :mp5:

Not only do I like the speech, I think President Bush believes every word of it.
Believe every word of it? He probably doesn't understand most of them! 'Specially the big ones

It's not easy to send your children to the most wretched places on earth to get shot at by murdering hateful terrorists. I find it hard to believe that some people cant see the big picture. For goodness sake, we still have thousands of american soldiers in GERMANY!!! Do you think that we'll be out of Iraq in a couple years.

Hell, you guys still have enough equipment stored here in Norway to take on Russia. A nice left-over from the Cold War. I doubt that you will be out of Iraq in 24 months like Bush promised on an earlier date. Good luck to all of you who are in Iraq. That includes my sisters boyfriend, who is one of the 150 Norwegian Army Engineers sent down to Iraq by the Norwegian government, who acted against the will of the Norwegian people when sending them down there. Thank heavens that the elections are this September, so that we can replace the government!