Dear JoJo

So apparently our little conversation propelled the mechanization of your brain and the cogs began to slowly turn in the unfathomed swirl of thoughts that is your mind.

First, I'll address the topic that started the domino cascade of intellectual musings in your subconscious. I haven't always been an Obama fan myself. But I was optimistic that he could live up to his promises and change America for the better. One year from his arrival in the White House, the economy has shown little signs of life despite efforts such as "Cash For Clunkers", the date of withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan has been extended, and Guantanamo Bay has not been closed. Obviously, the issue of Guantanamo Bay takes a backseat to the welfare of the nation's economy and the recovery from a damaging recession. Even universal health care seems to be higher in priority than dealing with world-class criminals.

Of course, Obama still has three years left in his term. I believe that it is enough time to still live up to his campaign promises. But quite frankly, there are many Americans who are sorely disappointed.

Now with the debate at hand. I think you failed to realize that Teddy was joking about killing the criminals. At least, I think he was. Think about it logically. You can't kill anyone at anytime you feel like it. It takes years and years for people on death row to be sentenced. Obviously, Ted is enamored with the idea of bloodshed and violence, both of which are inherent in his personality.

As for myself, I do not believe that killing the terrorists will solve the problem of Guantanamo Bay. Of course, it'd be easy and simple to carry out. But only in theory. The controversy and the conflict that would arise is a risk that no one in the government will be willing to take. So let's just scratch the idea of killing anyone for now.

I also called you a liberal mostly because you supported Obama. No other reason.

So you had this brilliant idea about a reality show starring all of the world-class terrorists currently in prison. Sure, it would make a lot of money. No doubt about it. The media and American audience would certainly eat it up. But in the end, it would be about the money.

It's not very likely that any U.S. official would compromise in order to save a new terrorist friend. If the government made compromises, what kind of country would this be? It's not pragmatic. The law has to be enforced to protect people in the future.

This brings me to your next point. I admire that you know the the word of God so well and that you so readily love your enemies. It's not like Teddy and I aren't Christians and we don't believe in what the Bible says. If you thought any different than this, then you are very mistaken. We do love our enemies. Yes, it is extremely important to love those who persecute you. It is even more important to love those who are lost and fallen from God's path.

But I'm not sure this means that we can condone any sin. I believe in second chances. I believe that by accepting Jesus as your savior, you attain the gift of eternal life. Sure. I also believe that each criminal in Guantanamo Bay still has a chance to spend eternity with God. But does that mean we can let everyone in the world do what they want, thinking, "oh well. God will still accept me in the end."? Unfortunately, actions have consequences. To love someone doesn't always mean letting them get what they want. I'm sure every criminal would love to be exonerated and exempt from punishment. But they've got to learn their lesson. Maybe that's what it takes for them to realize that life without God sucks.

So in short, I don't think it's such a great idea to let these individuals off the hook by giving them television fame or online stardom. Maybe it would be better to let them serve their sentence. Maybe that will change them more effectively.

Basically, yes you are a liberal in my book, but mostly because you are an Obama fan and the term is used very loosely (with little to no seriousness)when I say it. No, I don't really think that we should kill the terrorists. I can't speak for Ted. The reality show would make lots of money (which would probably be the goal of the producers) and would not be as successful in amending the sentences of the criminals. Love is awesome, but that doesn't mean we just let them go.

I can't wait to see what Teddy writes.

Thanks for making me waste 30 minutes of study time.