The Character of Goodness and Honor

William Safire pens an excellent commentary today in the Herald Tribune: Character is destiny. "character, a word that grew out of the Greek for "to mark, to engrave". Without citing President Bush's name, Mr. Safire writes that he believes the character of this nation is changing the world for better and for goodness.


Along these lines, the Pope had this to say yesterday:

"In comments before 7,000 people attending the General Papal Audience yesterday at the Vatican, Pope John Paul II commented on the Apocalypse, saying that the increase in violence and injustice in the world is the work of a furious Satan who doesn't have "much time left" and ultimately will be defeated."

More specifically:

"Satan, the original adversary, who accused our brothers in the heavenly court, has now been cast down from heaven and therefore no longer has great power. He knows he has not much time left because history is about to see a radical turning point in freedom from evil and therefore he is reacting full of great fury."

Alia Vibe: In re both articles: I feel it as well. It is a permanent alteration -- just as the deep-sea earthquake "rocked" the world and moved it off axis -- so quick is this change also in the mood of souls all over the world. But of course, it will grow darker before it grows lighter. Tender hearts and faint hearts alike will tremble, worrying this is "the end". And they shall ask that this righteous battle be stopped.

Years and years ago, I told my children that I do what I do and what I can do in order that they might know in their time -- better schools, saner government, a more civilized world. I think it shall be so. I also told them that during their time "in charge" they must not go to sleep and take such peace and peacetime for granted; to be vigilant and never fear hardwork, and doing work that is right to do - that this was how to maintain peace. Keep your own counsel, and never fear standing upon your convictions and beliefs. Be wise.