the Prayer of an old gun.

Some who are soft and gentle look at US guns and frown and say:
"Don't you know; violence is the last refuge of the incompetent"

and yes, that may be true...

But do 'we' forget how often our own... businessmen and women, scientists, diplomats, politicians, and so many others, in fact, have proven themselves incompetent?

How often do they say
. "I can find no way"
then turn and call
. "YOU! Son!
. . Private #18 year old with gun!
You must solve this problem
. save your friends, family, future...
indeed, YOU must come;
. and save your Country from these scum:
. . Kill them...
. . . KILL them, every one."

And god help me, I did.

But I survived; I'm alive! They didn't kill me... they can't any longer; it made me stronger! I've learned from it; I remember.

And here is what I must remind you before I can go, before I may rest, before I will die;
this is the most important quote of our history

Our way of life and the very lives of our children quite literally depend on understanding this quote:

"Of course the people don't want war. But after all, it's the leaders of the country who determine the policy... Voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism, and exposing the country to greater danger."

Who said that? Do you not know?
Oh, my god help us... Doesn't anyone remember?
Must we repeat it again and again?
How could you forget!

WHO AMONG YOU KNOWS THE NAME OF THE MAN WHO SAID THAT?

Oh, please, please tell me that you've learned it and, almighty god, let me rest... rest in peace.