Speech won’t cow enemies
From President Obama’s inaugural address: “To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society’s ills on the West – know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.”
The people Obama is addressing are not impressed. They hold power by keeping their populations ignorant and afraid to express any negative “judgment.” This is not an accident; they are not just stupid or misguided.
They are not going to unclench their fists due to this mild rebuke. Their response will be increased boldness. There will be a price in lives due to this encouragement. The longer Obama thinks and speaks like Obambi, the higher the price. Sept. 11 did happen; freedom is on the wane in Russia and other places.
In my life our choices have not always been good, but I believe we made the wrong choice only once: Carter. I hope we have not made another.
Tom Horne
Spokane