We are our own worst enemy.

I want the world to see the best of the American justice system. The presumption of innocence until one is proven guilty. The right to a fair hearing. And a fair trial. And to be read one's Miranda rights. Doesn't even matter if one is a suspected terrorist. And suspected of heinous crimes. One must still be treated fairly. And with respect. And to be provided with legal counsel if one can't afford an attorney. Of course, some Americans prefer a different set of standards for suspected terrorists. They'd lock 'em up and throw away the key and resort to torture and maybe even execution -- without a trial. But if we do that, we'll have abandoned our principles. The very beliefs and practices of fairness that have made America great. A shining example for others to follow. Unfortunately, we aren't living in the best of times. We are a nation on the decline. We seem willing to sell the American soul. Because we are living in fear. Scared. We want security. At almost any price. And some of us are willing to compromise our long-standing principles for the sake of defeating the so-called enemy. But if we do that, we will have become our own worst enemy. --Jim Broede