Reply #19: Bob Burnett: "Playing by Bush Rules" [View All]

[understandinglife]

If you have ever played a competitive sport, you understand that there are actually two sets of rules. In regular games, there are formal rules and, usually, referees to ensure that all players abide by them; the competition is governed by an ethic, “It’s not whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.” In irregular contests, pick-up games, there are informal rules – in some venues called “jungle” rules – and no referees; in this situation, the game is often reduced to doing whatever it takes to win.

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Bush promised to bring honor and responsibility to the Presidency. Moreover, he claimed to be a Christian; not a superficial believer like Clinton, but a “born again” Christian. His profession of faith bolstered his declaration of integrity.

Americans know a lot about Christianity as more than 80 percent identify with that religion. We understand that orthodox Christians do not lie, put their personal fortune above the common good, or believe that the ends justify the means. Proper Christians operate by the ethical equivalent of the Marques of Queensbury rules. Most believe that it’s not whether you win or lose but how you play the game.

But George W. Bush plays by his own rules. As American watch this administration unravel – as the electorate begins to understand the folly of the Iraq occupation, the fantasy of homeland security, and the abandonment of governance in the pursuit of political gain – one wonders which realization will come first: Will it be that Bush the President is incapable of leading the U.S., or will it be that Bush the man doesn’t deserve to be called a Christian?

More at the link:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-burnett/playing-by-bush-rules_b_8788.html

Thought this would be a fitting comment to contribute to another of your excellent posts.


Peace.