And conclude that we and our values are all f'd up, and although Bush reflects that, he is acting within the value system that we allow to remain in place and in pursuit of the things that we want as Americans.

One approach, and the one that most will likely adopt, is to pin this all on Bush. Another is to take a look at ourselves and see what we have become. Bush's presidency is one of the few chances we have to see the operation of the machine without the smoke and mirrors. And when we look at that machine, we, as Americans, have to reconcile our romantic notions of America with the actions America really takes.

If I recall, a high percentage of the population supported invasion of Iraq back after 9/11. Also a large number of people who are now anti-Bush continue to drive two vehicles, at least one of which is an SUV, live in large homes far from their place of work, and want to drive 2,000 miles on their summer vacation. Bush isn't making people live that lifestyle. His actions are in pursuit of the things that will allow people to continue to live that lifestyle.

On reflection 50 years from now, I think, and hope, people recognize this. Once they do, Bush won't be seen as a monster so much as a representative of America at the dawn of the new millenium.