Anybody else catch Tony Blair's speech today.  I was very  impressed.  I
found his words very eloquent, moving, and heartfelt.  I could really
believe in what he was saying and was glad to hear from another country, and
how deeply they have been affected as well.  I can't help thinking too, how
interesting it is that the first "Lord of the Rings" movie opens in theatres
this December.  Men, dwarves, elves, hobbits...all must come together to
defeat Sauron, the dark riders, the twisted grotesque orcs who were once
elves, Saruman, who was once good but opens his heart to evil and and
betrays those who trusted him.  As we embark on this war against terrorism,
I can't help seeing how this ultimate battle between good and evil, is
mirrored so well in Tolkien's world.

A couple of things Tony Blair said really stood out.  One thing in
particular was when he said that going to war would be costly, but that to
do nothing would be far worse.  It has really hit me that despite many
hardships this year, I am very grateful for the freedom that we have, and
that while the United States is not perfect, this really isn't just about
the United States..it involves the whole world...there is nothing that could
justify the attack on the World Trade Center...it was an act of pure evil
and in no way was it deserved.  And no, I do not wish to enlist, which is
somewhat of a moot point anyway as I have had suich poor health this year,
and I will sit in my living room and drink a martini and will be glad for
the freedom and the beauty that I have been able to find in life, and be
thankful for all the beauty that is yet to come.

Stephen and Kakki, thanks so much for relaying your experience with Joni.  I
found it very moving and was really glad you were able to connect with her.
I miss you both!

Victor in Athens






Victor Johnson
http://www.cdbaby.com/victorjohnson

"Velveteen rabbits and moonbeams,
Come when you lay down your head.
While you are sleeping, they kiss you and tell you,
That you are the reason the sun lights the sky."
                                                 Scarlet-V. Johnson

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