dear President George Bush
It was with sympathy that I watched you comfort your countrymen after the 9/11 tragedy. I was shocked at the incredible loss of innocent lives and I could identify with the anger of your countrymen.
As you galvanized your country and other nations to support a war on terrorism I can’t help but feel fresh hope that the oppression in some nations would be lifted at last. First, it was Afghanistan that was freed from a tyranny of fear. Then it was Iraq. But then there were no weapons of mass destruction as you claimed, only evidence of mass oppression.
Now Iraq is a quagmire and political minefield for your party and Tony Blair’s. A nightmare you wished had never begun. I admit an admiration for the courage and the steadfastness of purpose with which you kept your goals in sight and never wavered from them.
However I have now come to feel that perhaps the divine teachings of Jesus could have been heeded to yield a better outcome. Indeed, it would take even greater moral courage and steadfastness for you to lead your nation at that time to take the high road of forgiveness, reconciliation and doing good to your enemies that Jesus prescribed: “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you”(Matthew 5.43,44). Imagine with me that the U.S. took this path, and instead of war, chose dialogue, diplomacy and gave development aid and mercy. What would the outcomes of resolute steadfastness to this path have been after a decade, two decades?
However, now you cannot but continue to commit resources to limit the damage already done. It looks like Iraq will define the legacy of your stewardship of your two terms in the office of the greatest power in the world. I hope your recent decisions will result in some measure of security in Bagdad and that you will then initiate a phased withdrawal of U.S. troops from the country.
My prayer is that with strong and wise hands you will skillfully steer your country from the threatening rocks and guide it to the safe harbours of peace and prosperity. Forget the oil!
God bless America and Iraq,
Kenny Chee
8 comments February 20th, 2007
