The following has been broadcast repeatedly over local radio stations in Saskatchewan (Canada), with God Bless America playing in the background. It was attributed to a gentleman named Doug, who preferred that his last name not be known.

In the spirit of harmony and understanding it seems appropriate to share it. -------------------------------------------

I have a friend. He's kind of a big guy, but with a real gentle personality. Oh, I have seen him get into the odd fight, but usually only if someone provokes him. Usually he is the type of friend that we all strive to make. He is helpful without being asked. Despite his size, he doesn't throw his weight around needlessly,

My friend got beat up today. I guess beat up isn't the right word. He got cold cocked by a little guy who hit him when he wasn't looking. This is not the first time. Some years ago another guy up and kicked him in the groin. That guy paid a terrible price for his action, but once that was done, my friend returned to being the nice guy he really is. He even helped the guy that kicked him. Now, the guy that hit him today wasn't as brave as the one that kicked him. This guy sneaked up and punched him right in the face when his head was turned. He didn't have the guts to stand face-to-face. He was not the honorable opponent that his predecessor was. The guy that hit him

today was a coward, who will indeed pay a price when my buddy finds him. I don't think this loser realized what he was getting himself in for.

My friend has a black eye today, quite a shiner actually, and a great deal of pain. What the coward that hit him didn't realize was that any amount of pain simply serves to make my friend stronger. His resolve is without equal, and his friends have gathered around him.

My friend will be okay in a day or two, but I have looked into his eyes and I know he will never be the same. He even looks at me suspiciously now. While I am not responsible for what happened to him, he looks at me like I should have done something. I know that he doesn't really hold me responsible, but the trust will never be as complete between us as it has been until now.

Please, if you see my friend have a good word, and if he makes a mistake be tolerant, because you know that if you need help he will be there.

My name is Canada. My friend's name is America.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

-- Anonymous, September 21, 2001

Answers

Not the best analogy! Don't want a fight here, so I'll say no more.

-- Anonymous, September 21, 2001