Friday, March 14, 2003 | 8:58 a.m.
I am an American. I read, I listen, I try to be informed. I do not regurgitate rehashed talk show opinions. Bumper stickers, flying flags and banging Bibles do not make patriotic, moral Americans.
I sometimes disagree with our leadership -- that is my right in this land of the free. Sometimes there just might be a better way. I worry a lot about this country. I live each day trying to harm none. I try not to take more than my share.
The two most precious things in my life are my grandsons. My country already has the oldest, serving overseas in our Navy, distinguishing himself. The other may soon follow in his footsteps.
My beliefs are no one's business but mine -- like my vote. I defend your right to yours. I respect the vision of our forefathers, what they created in this country. I do not respect what we are becoming.
To those of you who would say we should not question, beating your self-righteous chests, telling us America, love it or leave it, perhaps I love it even more than you do. My concern about what we are becoming does not make me unpatriotic. Not sharing your religious beliefs does not make me immoral.
One nation, under the Constitution, with liberty and justice for all.
DOTTY HUGHES
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