Ever after

In 2000, I was disgusted by the notion that George Bush had lost the popular vote but won the election.

In 2004, I am horrified by the notion that George Bush won the popular vote. And the election.

There's a knot in my stomach that won't go away. I feel like a dad who is watching his kid go wrong. I know this feeling is hideous paternalism. I know America has to be allowed its legitimate decisions. But to continue on a course of immorality? Murderous aggression? Indifference to the poor?

When should Dad take away the car keys and ground his delinquent kid?

I am morally and intellectually certain of my position. But so what? The people who voted for Bush must be certain of theirs. Mustn't they?

Kerry's concession speech called for "healing" and the "need to find common ground." But how can I reach out to other Americans who are saying they're okay with a thousand dead American soldiers and 100,000 dead Iraqi civilians?