In Al Gore's book, The Assault On Reason, one finds again facts that are disturbing, and even more so, truths that in the past would have called for impeachment. Yet we continue in the same manner with neither real reflection, nor open dialogue. Moreover, we expect our relationships with other countries to flourish. Marriages do not survive such assaults. It is like the abusive husband expecting his wife to happily serve him a gourmet meal with a smile on her face after he has beat her for non-compliance to his unreasonable demands. Even the words "cold war" have recirculated and been cast into a new mold now called "nuclear war," and we have not blinked. We have not blinked because we are in shock. Fear induced rhetoric tends to freeze us in our place and our voice becomes stuck in our throats. Rape victims know about this. We have been raped psychologically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. It is difficult to stay balanced when attacked and even harder to reflect, gather facts, and take responsible stance in such a state. The help of mature, nurturing, loving adults often makes the difference in healing, thriving, and the livelihood of victims. Abused wives sadly often stay with their abusive spouses and die because they were either too afraid to break away or too weak to ask for help. In addition, the sad fact is that often there are people around the victim who could help but do not get involved. Why do we all standing around mute? We all know these victims and we know their abusers. We have the power to stop bullies. It is a courageous and brave person who steps in and says, ENOUGH! When are we going to get our collective voices back? When will the balance of powers be restored to our three branches? When will the bullies be admonished to mind their manners before chaos erupts throughout the world on such a grand scale that we no longer have any control over it collectively. Reason is necessary for living life to its fullest and sharing the bounty of joy with others. It is when greedy, arrogant, self-righteous, unloving people rule that we perish. The Assault On Reason, by Al Gore, is a book that everyone should read, whether Democrat, Rrepublican, or Independent. It reminds us of facts and truths that we must all face. Regardless of ‘party-lines’ we all are collectively responsible for the future of our world. Reason is necessary for our survival and we are the only creatures blessed with this unique gift. ---written by Peggy Jo | 
