Submitted by John House, Dec 30, 2007 21:15

No matter how strong a cult of personality, it is not a government.

Government responds to people's needs and maintains allegiance. Cults demand allegiance and give minimal support to people to coerce allegiance. The murders in Pakistan and the pointless violence in Iraq are creating a sense that terrorists offer a false contract.

I hope in the coming year that people in this unhappy region find politicians who will faithfully reflect their legitimate aspirations. I hope the United States and Israel will recognize such honorable politicians and meet them in good faith.

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