These are the times that try men's souls:  The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it NOW, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.  Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.  What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly:- 'Tis dearness only that gives everything its value.  Heaven knows how to set a proper price upon its goods; and it would be strange indeed, if so celestial an article as FREEDOM should not be highly rated.

Thomas Paine

December 19, 1776

Unfortunately, time and progress has not taught the hearts and minds of many the true values of life.  But truth and goodness will prevail if those who claim to cherish them will defend them with the same conviction as those who have gone before us.

Keep the faith and keep goodness in your heart.  Justice, not revenge is what is needed in the days and years to come.

George