Now more than ever, Americans need to to know why we should strike and send our soldiers in harms way. The President needs to share his mission expectations without press secretary hyperbole and innuendo.
Will we embolden the wrong coalitions if we strike? How many embassy workers are at risk? Who really benefit from the strike? Will it be the Muslim Brotherhood, al Qaeda, both, or the democratic, freedom loving Syrians who want to see their country modernize and progress.
While I have weighed this debate over and over in my mind, even at one time supporting the idea of not striking, the recent videos and photos of dead, bagged children and young Syrians lying side by side on death row has convinced me that all civilized, peace-loving nations who can, must get involved to remove Assad and his deadly regime immediately.
What truly frustrates me is how politically calculated President Obama and his trusty advisors have been on the Syrian issue (not to mention other issues: IRS, NSA, Benghazi, and the list goes on). In recent days, I have heard: we must strike...no we will wait on Congress (so I can blame GOP in Congress if my Syrian proposal fails)...we are not sure of the outcome [but hey, what difference does it make now - sound familiar?].
Look, while no one is saying it out loud (well, maybe a few are), I feel confident the Benghazi debacle was and remains connected to Syria. It's kind of a duh?! Oh, if Americans would only embrace the facts with open eyes, hearts and minds.
Obama needs to put a viable Syrian "use of force" proposal in front of the military, Congress and U.S. allies — a proposal the civilized world can get behind and support. It must include a definitive endgame, the mission must be clear and Obama must get Americans behind him, even those who don't inherently trust him like me.
The United States is a noble country, albeit seemingly morally and ethically devoid right now, and always has been despite the past and present bad citizens and politicians who have shaped history for the worse. If we go into Syria, we must triumph, there is no other choice.
I listened yesterday to the guest host on the Glenn Beck radio show. He was right, we can't let ourselves get fatigued. It's important to get out and enjoy family, friends and local surrounding and stay fresh and vigilant. While it is critical that we all stay engaged in this battle because our freedom and liberties are at stake, it's essential to stay lucid.
It is true, this fight against terrorism and radical Islam is thoroughly exhausting and at times feels hopeless. Our children are the light and hope, and should always remain the reason that we as a nation and individuals never give up the noble fight that is for and has always been about life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
