And Other People Die

To the Editor:

There was a time when members of Congress worked for the people rather than their own political party. Both Democrats and Republicans have betrayed Americans with their partisan politics. Their rifts on every piece of proposed legislation have grown tiresome. Do they really care, or are we just background props for their constant bantering, and egotistical posturing over almost any issue? It’s bad enough that the president has disregarded important things like hard facts, basic truths, public opinion, advice of military specialists and scientists, centuries of history, and documentary evidence — not to mention the Constitution! But the incessant sniping and shameless politicking by our senators and representatives is beyond annoying; it is downright pitiful. (Self-important people vie … and disenfranchised people die.)

A few responsible members of the news media, including “fake news” shows like The Daily Show, are venues where the public can see people in high places caught in the act of lying. Bush & Co. have made definitive statements, which they denied months — or years — later. Preserved on videotape and played side-by-side on the air, records reveal contradictions and deliberate lies. But, this administration cannot be embarrassed. The Executive Branch sees itself as being above the law. (Powerful people defy … and weaker people die.)

I have contacted senators and congressmen, sent money to watchdog groups, emails to family members, and maintained a dialogue with friends and associates — especially those with differing opinions. We all have families, jobs, responsibilities, and priorities. But too many people have thrown up their hands in resignation — a gesture I’ve longed for the president and his minions to make!

Most frustrating was when I contacted friends, in late 2003, requesting an answer to the following: “What event, revelation, piece of information, disclosure, or inane action by members of the Bush administration would cause you to question your trust in them and their policies, or withdraw your support?” I received not one response.

This President and Congress not only have divided us from our global friends and allies, and squandered our good will around the world, they also have succeeded in separating us from ourselves…from our own awareness of the precious reality of each other’s lives. (Rich, entitled people deny … and poor, unwitting people die.)

 And it has taken the amazing story of courageous TV journalist Bob Woodruff — not the president, not Congress — to bring to our attention the legions of young soldiers who have returned from this immoral war with conditions and injuries unimaginable to most of us. How can we spend hours discussing Dancing with the Stars, Britney’s behavior, Anna Nicole’s remains, and March Madness? How will the recent fiasco involving the Attorney General play out? And how can those at the highest levels of government justify their jockeying for position as if Americans are disposable pieces in a board game? (Indifferent people play and thrive ... and indigent people pay with their lives).

Michael Luzzi

Boggs Hill Road, Newtown                                          March 22, 2007