Week two of our 'war' with Iran; let's stop debating semantics, for the result's the same. I think it's safe to say we're all still in shock: not again, various generations are bemoaning. One poll asked listeners how long they think the war might last and most guessed one year; half-that said one month, and the rest split between one week or not in our lifetime.
I filled my tank with gas two days after hearing we were at war, $4.15 a gallon. It's always been higher out here plus I get the Hi-Test for my 2004 Volvo, but I don't drive much so a full tank can last a month.
Yesterday I saw the prices up to $4.50-something, and I pitied those who must commute some distance to work or school, or heading for vacation (especially with their RV). But I remember in one college class, c. 1973, being asked by the instructor, "Who would pay $1.00 a gallon for gas," and most everyone's hand shot upwards. He gradually increased the price per gallon and fewer hands went up; until he said $4.00 a gallon and mine was the only one up.
Why, he asked me and I replied, "I'm not a walker.," but I always regretted not adding my second reason: Prices would increase gradually and there wouldn't be such sticker shock so we'd all pay anyway. I'd answer the same now if someone asked if I'd pay $10 a gallon, for the same reasons.
As to our war with Iran, if someone asked me whether I'm for or against it, how would I answer? I've long been in favor of cutting the head off that snake, since Iran has indeed been a thorn in our side for far too long, and I bet the majority of Americans agree.
It's how we went about it. I don't expect instant notifications every time the State Department takes a breath; but they should have been better prepared to help Americans get out of harm's way. Twenty-four hours is not enough notice to fly everyone out, so since the President announces most threatening timelines at "2 weeks" why couldn't he have used that bluff, get them out, then begin?
Thank goodness they're helping now. Lots of us remember watching the 1979 hostage crisis on TV and counting the days of captivity along with Ted Koppel on ABC's new show, Nightline. My Ex was in the Army working with the new Patriot missile project on White Sands Missile Range, and everyone was on edge. Kinda like how military families are feeling right now.
As I watch the bombardment of Tehran and elsewhere, I can't help thinking that after all we've seen in Gaza, we're becoming sort-of immune to destruction like that. How many people will be displaced, and how much is this going to cost? Three fighter jets get accidentally shot down - how many tiny-homes and other social services could that have funded?
A definitive reason and clear objectives would also have been nice; but despite my nit-picking, I suppose my answer is Yes, I must support the war for the sake of our troops and innocent civilians. Unfortunately, the Genie is out of the Bottle and we can't put him back, so all we can hope is it's over quickly.
After this then Cuba and back to Venezuela to defend oil companies; and when NATO-minus the US focuses on war approaching their backyards will they still defend Greenland or will it become a casualty of war? What'll happen to Ukraine?
How thin can we be stretched and still defend ourselves if our enemies strike? Doesn't sound so implausable anymore, does it?
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