September eleventh, two thousand and one.

Why does the idea of closing Gitmo look good on paper, but seems impossible in practice?  We loved the idea when it was simply that ... yet what to do with the terrorists (we all know they are, deep down) when they might end up on our soil?  God forbid.  Not in my back yard.  Just leave things the way they are, I'd really rather not think about it.

Torture?  No, we don't do that unless we need to - and what, pray tell, if we didn't?  It's a terrible thing that we're all naturally against as good and honest working folk, but we must be careful.  If we don't force them to tell us things how else will we find out?  After all, they are all out to kill us, and the professionals are protecting us.  Just leave things the way they are, I'd really rather not think about it.

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Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose.

Losing when you've given it your best can be a very good thing.  If the winner has done the same during a fair fight there is much to be said for the game.  Shake hands and acknowledge the challenge, nod and move on with respect for a job well done on both sides.

Winning when the adversary has a team and you're a solo player is a bit different.  You may have a few cheerleaders and fill some seats in the bleachers, but you're likely down for the count.  Unless you play not to win ... but to change the game.  To expand the margins and question the established rules.  To question the very purpose of the combat.  For then - you're no longer a participant, you are a reason for enlightenment.  And achievement becomes an art, a dance between two opposing attractions.

Sadly - too many things, people, are lost without a fair fight.  Yet there is much to be learned by the endeavour.  Perhaps the future is the ultimate umpire.