Good Riddance Attention Whore
I have endured a lot of smear and hatred since Casey was killed and especially since I became the so-called “Face” of the American anti-war movement. Especially since I renounced any tie I have remaining with the Democratic Party, I have been further trashed on such “liberal blogs” as the Democratic Underground. Being called an “attention whore” and being told “good riddance” are some of the more milder rebukes.
I have come to some heartbreaking conclusions this Memorial Day Morning. These are not spur of the moment reflections, but things I have been meditating on for about a year now. The conclusions that I have slowly and very reluctantly come to are very heartbreaking to me.
The first conclusion is that I was the darling of the so-called left as long as I limited my protests to George Bush and the Republican Party. Of course, I was slandered and libeled by the right as a “tool” of the Democratic Party. This label was to marginalize me and my message. How could a woman have an original thought, or be working outside of our “two-party” system?
However, when I started to hold the Democratic Party to the same standards that I held the Republican Party, support for my cause started to erode and the “left” started labeling me with the same slurs that the right used. I guess no one paid attention to me when I said that the issue of peace and people dying for no reason is not a matter of “right or left”, but “right and wrong.”
I am deemed a radical because I believe that partisan politics should be left to the wayside when hundreds of thousands of people are dying for a war based on lies that is supported by Democrats and Republican alike. It amazes me that people who are sharp on the issues and can zero in like a laser beam on lies, misrepresentations, and political expediency when it comes to one party refuse to recognize it in their own party. Blind party loyalty is dangerous whatever side it occurs on. People of the world look on us Americans as jokes because we allow our political leaders so much murderous latitude and if we don’t find alternatives to this corrupt “two” party system our Representative Republic will die and be replaced with what we are rapidly descending into with nary a check or balance: a fascist corporate wasteland. I am demonized because I don’t see party affiliation or nationality when I look at a person, I see that person’s heart. If someone looks, dresses, acts, talks and votes like a Republican, then why do they deserve support just because he/she calls him/herself a Democrat?
I have also reached the conclusion that if I am doing what I am doing because I am an “attention whore” then I really need to be committed. I have invested everything I have into trying to bring peace with justice to a country that wants neither. If an individual wants both, then normally he/she is not willing to do more than walk in a protest march or sit behind his/her computer criticizing others. I have spent every available cent I got from the money a “grateful” country gave me when they killed my son and every penny that I have received in speaking or book fees since then. I have sacrificed a 29 year marriage and have traveled for extended periods of time away from Casey’s brother and sisters and my health has suffered and my hospital bills from last summer (when I almost died) are in collection because I have used all my energy trying to stop this country from slaughtering innocent human beings. I have been called every despicable name that small minds can think of and have had my life threatened many times.
The most devastating conclusion that I reached this morning, however, was that Casey did indeed die for nothing. His precious lifeblood drained out in a country far away from his family who loves him, killed by his own country which is beholden to and run by a war machine that even controls what we think. I have tried every since he died to make his sacrifice meaningful. Casey died for a country which cares more about who will be the next American Idol than how many people will be killed in the next few months while Democrats and Republicans play politics with human lives. It is so painful to me to know that I bought into this system for so many years and Casey paid the price for that allegiance. I failed my boy and that hurts the most.
I have also tried to work within a peace movement that often puts personal egos above peace and human life. This group won’t work with that group; he won’t attend an event if she is going to be there; and why does Cindy Sheehan get all the attention anyway? It is hard to work for peace when the very movement that is named after it has so many divisions.
Our brave young men and women in Iraq have been abandoned there indefinitely by their cowardly leaders who move them around like pawns on a chessboard of destruction and the people of Iraq have been doomed to death and fates worse than death by people worried more about elections than people. However, in five, ten, or fifteen years, our troops will come limping home in another abject defeat and ten or twenty years from then, our children’s children will be seeing their loved ones die for no reason, because their grandparents also bought into this corrupt system. George Bush will never be impeached because if the Democrats dig too deeply, they may unearth a few skeletons in their own graves and the system will perpetuate itself in perpetuity.
I am going to take whatever I have left and go home. I am going to go home and be a mother to my surviving children and try to regain some of what I have lost. I will try to maintain and nurture some very positive relationships that I have found in the journey that I was forced into when Casey died and try to repair some of the ones that have fallen apart since I began this single-minded crusade to try and change a paradigm that is now, I am afraid, carved in immovable, unbendable and rigidly mendacious marble.
Camp Casey has served its purpose. It’s for sale. Anyone want to buy five beautiful acres in Crawford, Texas? I will consider any reasonable offer. I hear George Bush will be moving out soon, too…which makes the property even more valuable.
This is my resignation letter as the “face” of the American anti-war movement. This is not my “Checkers” moment, because I will never give up trying to help people in the world who are harmed by the empire of the good old US of A, but I am finished working in, or outside of this system. This system forcefully resists being helped and eats up the people who try to help it. I am getting out before it totally consumes me or anymore people that I love and the rest of my resources.
Good-bye America…you are not the country that I love and I finally realized no matter how much I sacrifice, I can’t make you be that country unless you want it.
It’s up to you now.
Cindy Sheehan is the mother of Spc. Casey Austin Sheehan who was KIA in
Cindy Sheehan is right in her decisions. She hasn’t failed Americans — we have failed her.
Juan Siglo
If the United States were the size of Spain, it would be the considered crazy cousin of Western Civilization and kept in a shed in back. Good luck, Cindy.
Good luck, Ms. Sheehan. And thank you for sharing your intelligence and your courage.
As much as I might try, it is surely hard to fault this decision. This is exhibit #786595 on the list of lives destroyed by this administration.
Emmett Till’s mother, Mamie Till Mobley, also “dropped out” when people turned against her. She was the “face” of the civil rights movement, attended events and spoke out for about two years, and then the movement stopped supporting her. She quietly taught school and spoke to student groups when asked. She never stopped seeking justice for her son, but did so in different ways. A whole new generation took up the cause. A writer wrote a book with her, and a young documentary filmmaker made an award-winning film that lead the State of Mississippi to re-open the case. Let’s continue fighting the battle, and let Cindy fight it her own way.
Thanks Cindy. I am going to do everything in my power to make sure that my son has nothing whatever to do with the military services or work for the military-industrial complex. I’ll be vigilant to make sure no recruiter comes any where close to my son.
Dear Cindy,
Thank you so much for all the energy you have devoted to the cause. Rest, you deserve it. As to our country, I gave up on it a long while ago. As long as we are corporate run, with every state invested in the military-industrial-complex, I don’t see a way out. Today I depend on the rest of the world to hold us to account. As a nation, we no longer deserve material or moral support.
Cindy I remember you saying “we’re preaching to the choir but not everyone is singing” sadly you were and are right. Thank you for being that one who let her light shine rather than curse the darkness.
Dear Cindy-
Should you read this I want you to know that sooner or later folks will reach the inevitable conclusion that you reached regarding the Democrats. Many of us were banned from Democratic Underground for recognizing the truth beyond partisan politics. You won’t be the first to get shot down for being ahead of the curve.
You don’t know me Cindy, but I love you.
Take a breather if you need one- if you are burned out, tired, overwhelmed, bullied- but giving up is not an option. There are others out here with you, Cindy and we need to stick together and keep the faith.
It is merely a bump in the road.
Dear Cindy: Thanks for your sacrifice. I particularly remember a Fox interview last year where the woman (pro-neocon?) interviewer tried to tear you apart but you held it together as a dignified American mother, even in the eyes of someone like me who isn’t American and doesn’t live in the States either. People saw that across the world, and it meant something to them. You can still be that mother to your other children and provide inspiration and guidance to others.
I am glad you weren’t just a Democratic party servant and that you have your own views! A lot of the support many of them showed for you was just electioneering anyways. God bless you in your future endeavours - rest, be renewed, and move forward.
Cindy,
Ditto to all of the above. You gave the face of a grieving mother to millions in the US and the world. Sadly that was missing from the anti-war movement. You showed people how war affects families directly,which the anti-war movement was lacking. You gave new life to the movement when the movement peaked too much and burnt out.
Personally, you showed that as individuals we can make a change without adhering to an “ideology” or group. Thank you.
The time for civil action is concluded. The United States is in lockdown. Any civil dissent, brutally crushed by the considerable private resources propping up the current fascist looters.
So consider this a call to the entire military structure. Refuse any further orders and redeploy for the trip home, let them continue their Project for a New Century with just the mercenaries they can pay for.
The enemies foreign were invented to keep you away while the country you love was stolen with barely a whisper to be said about it, but the enemies domestic still have much more damage that they can inflict.
Refuse any further orders from your conspirator in chief. Return and save your homeland while there’s still something left.
Cindy, you have blessed all of our lives. never give up never give in. I remind myself every day that if you think you are too small to make adifference then you have never been in bed with a mosquito.
We need to go back the Populist Party that was responsible for so many reforms in this country.I have felt the same frustrations that you so clearly express. We can’t trust either party we always have to choose the lesser of 2 evils.We have to do it ourselves. My heart goes out to you. Rest and take care of your self.
Nowoman is required to save the world by destroying herself.
Not sure I understand this letter. Ms. Sheehan you make it sound as if you didn’t make a difference, which is completely false. It is people like you that go out and generate our freedoms. Many feel it is the military we need to thank for our freedoms, but that is far from the truth. The military defends our nation against outside aggression—when they’re not busy being directed by our government in acts of aggression. You and others like you are the ones who place yourselves on the real front lines. And you do this in the best tradition of true patriots.
I also disagree that your son died in vain. Had your tragedy not occurred, we would not have had the honor of your service to our country. You fought a great wrong, taking on a great sacrifice that many of our troops never experience. You’ll not receive medical care, bonuses, education, or even a parade. As with many other great Americans who fought the moral fight for our nation, often against overwhelming odds, no support, and no gratitude when proven right, you will now return home to continue your life. But know that what you did these past few years will continue whether you are there or not. You’ve done your part, you helped get the ball rolling, and you all accomplished more than you realize. It is time for others continue the mission. The message and truth is out there, but our current media brokers have intentionally kept that from the world.
Your successes and noble fit far transcends the failed mission in Iraq. You have succeeded far beyond what our current administration has accomplished, and you and your supporters have done this without the US taxpayer to support it.
God Bless you Cindy and the voice of reason against any immoral invasion.
What Ms. Sheehan failed to understand is that there IS NO “Demopublican” or “Republicrat” party. There is the “Money” party and the “People” party.
Guess which one most of Congress belongs to? Guess how many of that party are profiting HANDSOMELY from the spilled blood of people like Casey Sheehan?
Stinger_28 is right - with the Money Party’s iron heel firmly on the neck of American Democracy, the time for civil action is over. It’s up to the military structure and the People now - just don’t be too surprised when those mercenaries from Blackwater, Inc. show up in our communities and start shooting us down in the street like stray dogs.
And for all of those who attacked Ms. Sheehan - one of the greatest spokespersons against this ongoing, illegal occupation out of the movement - THANKS for handing the Money Party their greatest victory yet!
You’re the same people who would no doubt long for the return of Jesus Christ, then would go right ahead and nail him up again!
I echo your sentiments, Cindy.
The business of America is war. Without it, we’re ALL living on the streets. The fear of a world without war, (and a country without an export,) consumes our consumer nation. The “blind eye” that we accuse other Americans of having isn’t so blind that it cannot envision how truly poor we would be without war. And what does that say about the USA?
Land of nothing for free.
Home of the slave.
Thank you, Cindy, for trying. I hope you will find the peace you tried to show us all.
Peace to you and yours.
Not much left to say that hasn’t been said — the road you’re on leads to truth and that truth is a hard one. Thanks for your efforts, there are many of us who moved beyond the two-party delusion and we stand with you. Thanks again and I wish you peace and strength.
Thank you Cindy.
I have always been behind your efforts 100%, and am also saddened that things are moving so slowly in getting all of our troops home from Iraq with their friends and families where they belong. You made me realize there are some people left who actually care about our country and the world we live in. I hope you can rest now and enjoy life for a while? You certainly deserve it. I will continue in the battle with the groundwork you have set.
Peace be with you always.
Cindy’s article is so heartwrenching, it was hard to read without tears. If anyone deserves to retreat and heal, it is she.
Sometimes I believe Voltaire had it right in Candide: cultivate your own garden. This is not “the best of all possible worlds,” and it is not likely to become so.
For many years, I believed people who tried could make a huge difference in bettering our existence, and to a degree this is probably true. But looking back at the Vietnam war, the women’s movement, and civil rights, it occurs to me that in spite of the monumental efforts made by the protestors, activists and leaders, only minimal progress has been made.
Here we are in a repeat of Vietnam, women’s rights are slowly but surely being eroded, gays and lesbians remain oppressed and discriminated against, racial profiling and harrassment persists, and the religious right has become a driving force in politics and the media. The gulf between the haves and havenots has widened to a chasm. Chaos rules in many countries. Religious fanaticism is on the increase accompanied by violence over nitpicking nonsense about the dogma of one sect versus another - not so different from the Middle Ages, just a few hundred years later.
I have finally come to the conclusion that, at the age of 60, I must live my life according to my own standards of morality. I attempt to influence as many young people as I can concerning tolerance, compassion, generosity, and the search for truth (whatever one perceives that to be). I also have real gardens of flowers and vegetables in which I grow most of what my husband and I eat. My husband, family, and friends produce art, play music, entertain each other, discuss philosophy and politics, and try to set a positive example as much as we are equipped to do so.
But for the most part, I have stopped attempting to change the world through protests and activism. Perhaps this is a cop-out, but Cindy Sheehan’s experience is not unique - not in this time and place nor in the context of history. I sincerely hope not everyone follows my example; maybe if enough people find the time and energy to work toward the common good, eventually things will improve dramatically for the world and its inhabitants.
In the meantime, I follow the advice of Voltaire. I cultivate my own garden, both virtually and literally.
I don’t think there’s much that Cindy Sheehan can do anyway now that the Democratic Party and the American public have capitulated to Caligula and his stalwarts. The bleeding will continue apace.
We need to keep fighting to bring it to an end because it’s the right thing to do, but not be surprised if we continue to fail. And there’s always a possibility of a sudden breakthrough, a critical mass emerging for impeachment perhaps. However, the prospects are dim.
It will probably take a war with Iran–if it comes–to galvanize the anti-war movement, and perhaps even that will not be enough. And of course it will be far too late.
The main problem is that the Democratic Party is dominated by tepid, anxious opportunists. The majority of the American public, which is now opposed to the war, is simply not represented by any party at all. And yet they don’t care enough to force a real change in direction.
Does that make the two parties precisely equivalent? Exempting the handful with actual principles such as Ron Paul, Kucinich, McDermott, Woolsey, Feingold, they are, in mass, a dismal lot.
Certainly the Republicans are more dangerous because they are now controlled by savage ideologues toiling in a fog of delusion. They cannot govern. They utterly fail at every practical response to crisis; still they are masters of propaganda and power politics.
They fight for every inch of political turf with a policy of scorched earth. Their principles are corrupt and yet they are monomaniacal in implementing them.
The Democratic Party represents a conservative corporatocracy. Although more pragmatic and less delusional, it is flabby and without principles. It will fight for nothing except the next corporate paycheck and political sell-out.
(Notice that the Democratic Party is also keenly onboard with the attempt to force the privatization of Iraqi oil. They and the corporations they represent really want that oil. So the only benchmark that matters is that the Iraqis give it up.
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/052607Z.shtml
What a shock.)
I predicted, like many others, the capitulation of the Democratic Party to the most abysmal sort of “politics as usual”. For friends who were stunned by my disrespect for Pelosi and Reid, they now fall into two camps: those who are floored, having been caught off guard, and those who are even now making excuses for the Democrats.
Cindy Sheehan needs to realize that people always demonize and try to destroy the messenger bearing unpleasant news.
Truth passes through three phases:
* First it is ridiculed.
* Second it is fiercely and violently opposed.
* Third, it becomes self-evident.
Arthur Schopenhauer
Maybe after a respite with her family, she’ll step back into the public eye. Perhaps by then there will be some real opportunities to end the war.
Eat a Peach for Peace…
This news hits me harder than anything has in a long time; if Cindy Sheehan can’t bring about change, no one can. We, the people, are lost.
Take care of yourself now, Cindy. You have given more than should be expected. We, the people, will never forget you.
Cindy,
You are a wonderful person and much beloved by all of us out here trying to end this war. Your courage in the face of enormous personal loss has been and will continue to be an inspiration for peace-loving people everywhere. Thank you so much for all that you’ve done and all that you’ve tried to accomplish. The Demowimp Demlicans are cowards. They have shown their true colors in allowing this horrible war to continue and by caving to the lunatic in the Oval Office. Everything you said in your farewell letter is, sadly, completely true. Please rest and have as good a life as you can with your surviving children and other loved ones. I will miss your eloquence and tenacity. Hang in there.
Until yesterday, Cindy, I held back from advocating that you should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, because I’d thought it would be unwise that you should be given far too much, far too quickly. Dr. King came to US national prominence in 1955, but was only awarded his Nobel Prize 9 years later. I also thought of Sister Helen Prejean as the front runner for that honour. Now the two of you tie even!
Whatever happens, I hope that we can continue to read contributions from your pen, Cindy. It’s one of the deadliest weapons in the cause of peace that I’ve yet met, because what you write comes straight from the heart!
Dear Cindy,
Goodbye for now and thank you for all of your sacrifices and efforts to try to bring this mentally ill country to its senses. You have nothing to be ashamed of or to regret in all of your anti-war activities. You are so right about our system of “political duopoly” of the “Republicrats” those numerous politicians of both “stripes” whose loyalties only extend as far as the corporate boardroom.
I am sorry that there are progressives that take umbrage at your honest criticism of all those who support this immoral illegal war. In my opinion there are many geeks that need to get off their blogs and go outside to smell the tear gas! My wife met you in Asheville NC at a peace rally in 2004 before most of the media had discovered you and she will always remember you as a real down to earth compassionate person.
You have done more than your duty. Rest now sister!
Unfortunate, but entirely understandable.
Thank you, Ms. Sheehan. You’ve given more than enough.
I would remind everyone:
We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness - That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.
Truth is the enemy of ignorance and Cindy Sheehan’s refusal to obfuscate the truth any longer should be an example to all of us. What is more important than truth? She knows that nothing is more important, and that is why she can speak the most painful words of all, that the death and injury of all involved in this hideous illegal war is for nothing but evil profit. Saint Cindy.
I’m disturbed that Cindy’s medical bills are in collection. It sounds like her efffort has left her under financial stress. Is there some way I can donate money DIRECTLY to her. Not to some organization in her name. (I already do that in my own name.) Is there a site set up by Gold Star Families for example? Or some other legit place I could donate money to to help her out? It is the least I could do for all the hope she has brought me these past few years.
Cindy,you are too kind to this country. America is a worn out junkie who needs to hit bottom to face itself. We crossed a line going into Iraq and re-electing bush. Our future resembles that of an out-of-control meth fiend.What you did was to show a co-dependant nation that its kids are hooked, and its leaders are the moral equivalent of heroin dealers. you are the best kind of hero
Did you hear that pin drop> Just that one split second.
It’s gone as everyone goes back to being anything but what they preach.
Democrats, Liberals SHAME ON YOU
Republican They never really gave a dam for anyone but themselves anyway.
To you Cindy A Great big Thank You. you son had the Bestus Mother. The kind of mother that many songs were once written about.
GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU CINDY
Mike
Cindy, You did the right thing..! as a Proud Member of Code Pink, I supported every you every inch of the way!! I will continue to do so.. You are a role Model for us Women activists! I have 6 grandchildren and do I want them to go to WAR, HELL NO! Nancy Pelosi and other demopublicans should be ashamed of themselves! My grandchildren will know what a wonderful Mother and woman you were and still were for standing Up for your convictions.. We will carry on in Your Name , to Me this is very Important to carry on to My children and grands that WAR IS NOT THE ANSWER! Take care My friend, and regroup and do what you have to do.. Thanks from the bottom of My heart for all that you did for the Peace Movement… I am NO longer a Democract by the way, ALL OF THEM SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES FOR BEING A BUNCH OF GUTLESS COWARDS WITH NO BACKBONE.. Myrna-grannyfromwisconsin
First of all, we owe Cindy Sheehan a tremendous THANK YOU! and ALL THE BEST!
As for her conclusion that her son died for nothing, I had long since come to the same conclusion for all the friends I had lost in Vietnam. As a graduate of The Citadel, I had been convinced of the importance of that war and that my friends had died for a just cause. But years later, I took a good, hard look at our growing business relationship with our former enemy and realized that we had gained absolutely nothing from that war — my friends had died for absolutely nothing.
Unfortunately, now I see that I was wrong on both counts. They did die for something, and the young men and women being slaughtered in Iraq are dying for the same thing. They are dying so that the Corporate State may flourish and extend itself over the world. They are dying for the Republicans’ and Democrats’ business friends, who cannot possibly lose. If we “win,” the Corporate State will go into high gear to exploit the region. If we “lose,” the Corporate State will pour a tithe of its profits into the next great conflict between good (us) and evil (them).
The neocons accuse progressives of wanting to see a defeat in Iraq. That’s just the old good-us-against-evil-them rhetoric that the Corporate media thrive on and the population needs in order to maintain the divisions that convince them that they’re right, holy, and just. But perhaps some sort of catastrophe there would be the only way to save us. Perhaps then the deaths would not be for nothing. But no, the politicians and their Corporate owners in business and the media would convince us that it was due to the traitors in our midst (like the Jews who stabbed Germany in the back in World War I) and that the only way to national salvation is through even more Corporativism (like … well, you know the rest).
The Republic is dead. So let us get used to the old Latin appellation: “Ave, Imperator. Morituri salutamus — Hail, Commander. We who are about to die, salute you.” Gladiators used to shout that one to the “Emperor” (Latin imperator ‘he who gives commands’; preferred dictionary definition: ‘commander-in-chief’) before they fought to keep the people distracted and to keep the rich in power.
the world is better for your presence, whether on the front lines of “the struggle” or at home. this new direction you are taking opens the way for new voices and energy to emerge. hopefully, those who carry on will do justice to the work you have done.
Cindy electrified the peace movement when it needed it–early in the occupation of Iraq. And she did much more.
She has a degree in history. This sort of background helped her penetrate the veils of propaganda to see that the invasion and occupation are not mere “mistakes” but were and are immoral crimes. And she did something else. Something even more important. She helped define the *identity* of those seeking a better world and better US policies.
For example, she said this in an interview with Joshua Frank:
“We need to take Hillary and [Nancy] Pelosi on to reflect true progressive antiwar values, not AIPAC or neocon values . . .”
http://www.antiwar.com/frank/
That phrase “true progressive” is one she used many times. And her actions exemplified it. She meant the term as values that apply even beyond matters of war and peace, to how we see and shape the world. It amounts to defining a true (not fake) progressive worldview. Here is an example from an article she wrote:
” . . . true progressives have many issues that we focus rightly on: a woman’s right to have control over her own reproductive system and other human rights issues such as an end to the occupation of Palestine and the atrocities of Darfur and the Sudan.”
She is referring to Scott Ritter’s call to adopt what she called “warrior” tactics to oppose war. She said, to Scott Ritter:
“We won’t use the tactics of Napoleon, or your hero, Sun Tzu, we will use the tactics of our heroes: Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.”
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0407-20.htm
Her formulation of a true progressive identity is not only a politically unifying concept. It is also an essential tactic to prevent “progressive” as an identity from being co-opted by non-progressive, pro-militarist, corporate Democrats. (I’m not referring to Scott Ritter here but to groups like the DLC and its so-called “Progressive Policy Institute” which actually advocates pro-militarist policies in support of “winning the war against jihadist terrorism” not progressive policies that deal with the root causes of terrorism such as occupation.)
As someone both defining and exemplifying that which is truly progressive, she has done more than electrify and amplify a peace movement. By her clear words and courageous actions she has helped clarify and strengthen our progressive identity for politics across parties and groups–an authentic politics of worldview and of values, not merely a party seeking power.
Personally, I hope she runs for the House or the Senate after she rests for a while. But regardless of what she does or doesn’t do, she helped us know what it means to be and think like a true progressive. I hope she remains as a writer here at the progressive community at CommonDreams.org.
Cindy now makes us look to ourselves. Perhaps it’s the tipping point. Since neither the Republican nor Democratic party can bring peace to the world in the face of the military/industrial combine, what can we do? We might start a “Peace Lobby” via the Internet. Some 70% of our country are against the war. Wouldn’t their contributions amount to many millions to support a significant lobby in Washington at least equal to the corporate lobby powers? For only $1 a person, annually, that 70% could amass over $100 million for this purpose. How about it America? What’s peace worth to you? At $10 each that would mean over a BILLION DOLLARS a year! Now we are talking in the language that Congress uses. There wouild be no stopping our influence on proper legislation. With those funds we could involve the most brilliant minds and lobbyists, not to speak of those motivated to contribute their talents.
Cindy–I hope you read all these. I have a 20 year old son, who, thank God, would never join the military. My cynicism may have preceded yours, but the result is that I have done far less work, and my son is alive. If Casey’s death keeps others from joining, in that he will not have died in vain. Please rest up. God keep you.
Reading through the above comments reveals how most reading, thinking, caring people really feel.
Good work Cindy!
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Brian
Stopping a war is in itself a life threatening situation. Those who chose to resist are on the front lines. I’ve been there. Cindy will be missed, but her resolve was not equal to the task. We need a modern day Jerry Rubin to step up and say F*** this!
Well Done Cindy.
May you be blessed, may you be healed.
I believe we all make a mistake when our efforts are fueled by outrage and fury. Certainly it is justified, however it is not sustainable. Outrage burns hot, but all it leaves is a burnt out shell.
The powers that be love activists because the whole world sees their efforts come to nothing. Goliath beats David once again. Consequently even fewer activists arise.
(this is not to say she failed. Larkspur is absolutely right. The depth of Cindy’s achievements cannot be measured. Ripples have turned into waves, and now the tide is turning.)
We must be motivated by something more concrete however; something permanent. Perhaps love would make better fuel for our endeavors.
Let’s take the foundation she has laid and build on it. Let’s learn from our mistakes. As she slips into some well deserved rest, let’s not abandon this courageous woman. She rallied around Casey. Let’s rally around her. Let’s pour cards and gifts down on her. Let’s go over the top to reward her for taking the slings and arrows that we were too busy (or cowardly) to accept.
“Good-bye America…you are not the country that I love and I finally realized no matter how much I sacrifice, I can’t make you be that country unless you want it.
It’s up to you now.”
This cry coming from the mother of son killed by accumulation of lies, started not yesterday, is the greatest contribution, which single individual can make; thank you Cindy Sheehan for making public your cry.
Your very disappointment with Democratic Party and our triangulating anti-war movement is the sure sign that tsunami is coming. In your person American nation made a giant step forward even if you made a small step back to refresh your battery; thank you Cindy Sheehan for making public your disappointment.
Ever growing number of people argue that it is not the Republican or Democratic Parties that are responsible for this War in Iraq; it is the Money Party’s iron heel firmly on the neck of American Democracy and that is exactly what Cindy said in her resignation letter; thank you Cindy Sheehan for making public your understanding.
It behooved us to spread old news that Bastion of Democracy these United States claimed to be for so long was and still is the bastion of now global financial oligarchy that has allegiance to no particular people; financial oligarchy that is driven by profit only, ceaselessly and mindlessly; financial oligarchy that thrive as a virus, as a malign tumor, which distort perception of reality on our collective brains; financial oligarchy that is in itself victim of that pseudo reality it creates in order to survive.
And the only way to kill that malign tumor is to recognize its very existence and readjust our collective being to real reality; thank you Cindy Sheehan for making public your first step in that direction.
Cindy is completely correct. The Democratic Party and its appeasers of evil make me sick. Hillary Clinton and the DLC gang are complicit in war crimes. They are bootlickers, parasites, and whores. John Brown was right: there seems to be only one way to expiate the sins of this guilty nation.
It is heartbreaking to see this kind of thing happen. But all our leaders for peace have gone through this. It’s to be expected in an Empire. Those on the “left” that have been unable to take Cindy Sheehan’s criticism without spewing hateful words should really take a step back and reexamine their motives.
Cindy has been the best example of motherhood, and now that includes a different focus of her energies. I hope Cindy will come back when she has re-energized, and at least keep sharing her views with us as much as possible.
Dear Cindy,
You are an inspiration to all women.
We must take responsibility for our share of the problems this nation faces, for we have bought into the “lies” (capitalism, nationalism, greed, ignorance etc)and have helped perpetuate them. Abdul’Baha once stated that war will not stop until the women stop supporting it. I took that to heart and refused to allow my son to join the armed forces, for it is an instrument of destruction and not of righteousness or justice.
I too have withdrawn from the confrontational aspect of protest because it does no good. There are too few voices for justice and too many for the status quo–as long as it serves the interests of those who perpetuate it, whether they be labeled Democrats or Republicans–or Libertarians, Greens etc. It is going to take an incredible upheaval, and much, much suffering–life altering experiences to make Americans realize they HAVE TO CHANGE THEIR PARADIGMS!!
I support you in your efforts, as well as your retirement. Right now, creating a safe haven for your children and family is critical, for the difficult times have only begun. They will need your strength and courage.
Go in peace.
Cindy is absolutely correct in what she says about the reaction to any who don’t toe the party line. When she said: ‘Blind party loyalty is dangerous whatever side it occurs on.’ She hit the nail on the head.
This nation does not deserve any more sacrifices from Cindy, she has already given far more than anyone should.
I just want Cindy to know she is not alone, there are many more of us out here, who will hold both democrats and republicans accountable, as well as media people and American citizens.
The Democratic party has betrayed us all by caving into the Bush administration on funding the war and in cutting the secret trade deal. No one wants to admit it but Ralph Nader was right, when you vote for Republicans or Democrats you are voting for Tweedle Dee and Tweedel Dumb
Dear Cindy:
I am a 68-year-old grandmother, and my brother served in Viet Nam with the 7th Air Cavalry. We will always be grateful that he came home healthy in mind and body after having numerous brushes with death. I saw my mother age 20 years in the one year that he spent there. He gave up college to join the Army, a choice that, at the time, he thought was patriotic. In 1965, most people still believed that Viet Nam was a just war. We didn’t realize that we were being duped into fighting an unwinable conflict.
My son, who is 42, has never been to war. I view this as a gift.
You have honored your son’s memory over and above the call of any mother I can recall. The abuse and hardship that you have endured is a more patriotic and heroic struggle than any of your antagonists can dream of achieving themselves.
Casey and his fallen comrades will live on in the hearts of many because of you, my dear woman.
I send you healing light, courage, energy, hope, and a wish for good health and a long and happy life with your loved ones.
Thank you Cindy, for all you’ve done!
Mayhap you were not able to change the darkened hearts of those that hold the strings of power in this nation, but you DID touch millions of lives with your courage, and compassion for peace and humanity in a dying world.
You did make a difference, you set a shining example for all to see. We that love the truth, are thankful that you were born. And some in seeing your example, were and are loathe, because their own decrepit natures were shown full well in the light of day.
No worries dear one, for everything WILL come out in the wash. All of us need to trust that. For at the end of the day, every one of us, for good or ill, will receive our just rewards.
With much love and gratitude…..
(((hugs)))
Cindy:
Ever since you first stood up to the regime following the death of your son, we have been watching and listening; wishing we had the energy and money to join you on your journeys. Daily, we become more and more disgusted with the behaviors of this administration and its Gestapo officers (especially after the State of the Union debacle), and we have been active locally. But to see the rising numbers of dead and wounded troops, the increase of profiteering in Iraq, the rise of Blackwater, the upcoming nuclear confrontation with Iran — all whilst the majority of the American people sit back on their couches to watch FOX and ‘American Idol’ and do absolutely nothing (while they claim to want to) infuriates us even further.
We are sorry to see you go, though I feel in the back of my mind you won’t be too far away. If you give up entirely, then you’ve allowed the Dubya Shrubbery and adjacent Nursery to win. This is what they’ve been waiting for; this is the point in time where they can instill the totalitarianist theocracy, so long in the planning.
We hope that if, indeed, you are totally giving up, then someone can follow your footsteps and recruit more TRUE Americans to undo the evils which have polluted our great nation since January 2001.
Love,
Mister and Missus with Wee Ones
Cindy, you have my heartfelt gratitude. I too am concerned to hear about your medical bills. Can I help you?
As I sit here tearing up, I am reminded that as amazing as Cindy has been illuminating the cold hard facts about our war machine (which is our government), sacrificing herself more than anyone person should have to, she was never meant to be our savior. No one can do that with all the forces aligned in our destruction.
I, too see that humanity, no matter where it springs from is important.
Do you think that perhaps we’re all missing the point of what’s going on in our country? Nationalism, love for country and “our” people (but not those people) has gotten us where we are today. Beliefs and non critical thinking are why we are who we are as Americans. We believe that we are #1, without any evidence. We believe that we are good people, no matter what is done in our name. We believe that Bush is an aberration, despite evidence to the contrary. We refuse to look at the past and present with any clarity, with our rose colored Gucci glasses. We fail to look at the mirror, because we spend too much time looking at television and what we can buy with our credit cards. Our media and our willingness to sell ourselves, our ideals, our souls for money, security and material things have made us the pathetic beings that we are today.
We are missing the big picture, seeing only the leaves not even the forest for the trees.
No democrats, republicans or even the independents can save us. We would need a complete over-haul to have enough independents to even make a dent in our problems. We must stop looking for a savior, no matter how appealing. And any idea that includes favorites, chosen countries, people, religions are not going to save us, they will inevitably push us further in the murk. I believe that God doesn’t discriminate, that he includes everyone not dividing up humanity in handy little piles. I reject any teachings that advance the belief that God has “chosen people.” How could that be when God created us all, which means that we all have worth, right? After that we can be judged on our deeds.
So I invite you to consider this. If you’re thinking that the democrats, republicans, Bush and others are not realizing that they are destroying “our” military, “our” country, “our” way of life, then you’re missing the point. What if they are doing what we as people should have done a long time ago; not having an allegiance to only our country, our military, our people, our way of life. I’m suggesting that, unlike the evil oppressive environment that the “Powers that be” rain on millions, we should consider thinking of the community of all people as being important, regardless of where they happened to be born; having allegiance to the plight of people not a country or certain people.
How can a country be completely dismantled from within? Well it’s easy, first of all create a community of over fed, overworked, over materialized cats who think that they are more important than any other cats. Have them think they are important, not for what they contribute, but just because of where they have been born, and then continue to congratulate them, for what they can own. Then dangle various cat toys in front of them, so that they are constantly being distracted. Oh yes that is us, most of us anyway; watching “reality TV”, while true reality eludes us; shopping for the latest new gadget; watching more sports, playing none; being the ultimate spectator, consumer. Then make us feel even more important by what sport teams we belong to, yeah, I’m a democrat, I’m republican, I’m a Christian, I’m a Catholic. Have our people more concerned with the lives of “our” people than the lives of any other. We lost 4,000 lives, but we’ve taken 600,000 of theirs. Uh, that seems fair.
Yeah, and what if those in power see the trees, see the forest, see the world? The U.S. becomes unimportant. Destroying the U.S. military would be an important goal – can’t have them rising up. Make our military indentured peasants if not slaves. Have our people support their actions, but not the soldiers themselves. Create chaos (more pretty little cat toys). Immigration – Oh my goodness those people want to take over our country – amusing at best, because is it really our country anymore?
Yeah and destroying the middle class becomes even more important. Make them feel despair, like they have no choices. Creating one true religion; whereas just to say that a person follows Islam is considered an attack on Christianity.
If you think globally there is no trade deficit with China. China now becomes just the part of the world that is our manufacturing company; Iraq is our personal gas station; Mexico is our slave trade, and the list goes on.
And our auto industry – oh no it’s failing… We have to purchase U.S. cars to support our country. Haven’t you been listening? They are no longer our companies, they are global enterprises.
I hope we wake up, even though it’s frightening being out of the matrix. Admittedly I’m just now trying to wipe the gunk out of my sleepy eyes. Vote with your dollars. Stop over shopping; Stop wasting energy; Stop being fools and enjoy the present because it’s only going to get worse. And while you’re at it, be an individual, act as one and do what YOU can to help others who are less fortunate than you.
trudy, that’s tweedle dumb and tweedle dumber.
cindy, thank you for helping us all with your honesty and heartfelt vision. i hope you reenter public life someday, perhaps by writing a book or perhaps by running for office.
we will miss you, but code pink is still on the case.
tonight after tutoring i am dashing off to an impeachment panel in detroit. eventually the weight of so many states and localities demanding impeachment may tip the scales. i suspect that we will not have peace without impeachment of both bush and cheney.
Thank you Cindy. You are a hero whose courage and leadership will still be remembered around the world when the USA you fought for is but a distant memory. Governments come and go, and this one has chosen suicide, but the hearts of human beings will not rest until we have a society somewhere that values truth and love and fairness. Rest assured that others will pick up where you left off and the Movement will continue. You won, Cindy! You won, and we owe you.
Just what makes her think she has the luxury to quit?!
If you lost your husband over this, he must be one hell of a jerk. Thanks for pulling the load for so long - the rest of us will now pull harder in your honor.
Cindy Sheehan is a true American heroine in the model of Emma Goldman, Stanton and Cady. She had done more than most to stop the horrendous war and well deserves to regain her strength.
Cindy, we were unable to join you in Crawford but did not because of family. I regret that now. We owe you more than we can ever repay. Thank you for your service to our country. You are one of the few true patriots remaining in this land. I fully understand your letter. We failed you.
Cindy,
You should never give up. Those on the other sides of the peace process will only gain from a figure such as yourself leaving the fight for freedom and peace.
Cindy, it is OUR duty to defend human rights all around the globe, I respect you as I respect all those putting their lives on the line to defend the rights of all. I sympathize with you that your family has been strained throughout this whole ordeal, however, people have lost more-they have lost their lives. In memory of Rachel Corrie, Tom Hurndall and others that came to countries other than their own to fight for what is right, for peace. You should continue in their memory this struggle we all endure and should never forget. Your son died, and other sons and daughter’s died. We fight for them, although we have not lost our own children, others have and we fight for them. You should not fight only for your son, fight for the sons and daughters of the world. You have done tremendous work for those people around the globe, you cannot quit!
You just cannot quit!
[[Cindy– people who are sharp on the issues and can zero in like a laser beam on lies, misrepresentations, and political expediency when it comes to one party; refuse to recognize it in their own party… Blind party loyalty is dangerous whatever side it occurs on.]]–These people belong to the “MONEY PARTY” not the “PEOPLE PARTY”.
The money party’s religion is capitalism and they worship money as their god.
They believe in a leader that promises riches instead of believing in themselves and what they know to be right.
Notice how many more people in all walks of life slowly begin to understand and when they do they pick up where you are leaving off.
This occupation is not in vein, the country is learning about itself at the expense of so many innocent people’s lives. Those people are my heroes. They gave their lives to bring this country back to reason.
So Cindy! Come back to the real world and enjoy life again with your true friends and family. Revive your perception of the world around you and see why you were motivated in the first place.
Dear Cindy,
Thank you for all you have done for America and the world. You were a powerful voice opposing a crazy war when most Americans supported it. Now when the tide has turned, it is easy to be against it, but you have continued to speak bravely even when you are rediculed by the powers that be.
I agree with all you wrote above except that your son “died for nothing”. In honor of Casey, you have done more for both America and world peace than any living statesman or politician. Now, go and enjoy your other children. You deserve it, they deserve it and Casey deserves it.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I have never been a real fan of Mrs. Sheehan or most other anti-war groups because they have failed to put the Iraq war in the context to which it belongs; i.e., the working of an empire. Once we begin to realize that an empire is fueled not just by elites and the pursuit or money or oil, but by the vast majority of people who, directly or indirectly, benefit from the workings of the empire we will awake and found a party based on justice, health and peace, not war and empire. We pay very little for our gasoline because we live in an empire that ensures we get a good supplly through our military might–although less might than some once believed. Willlam Appleman Williams made the point a long time ago that until be admited to being an empire, we were not going to change it. Both the Republican and Democratic parties are advocates of empire, and neither will change very much. A third party is possible but the pull of the two parties is too great to overcome without a long struggle. We cannot return to salvation of the Democratic party after one election where the Republicans win. We must have a committment to continue outside the Democratic party election after election until they get the message or a third party wins. It can be done with an organization that is local; returning to the Democrats because they are the worst of evils means that you are always going to get the evil ones, just different stripes. Cindy Sheehan does make one good point: her son died in vain. He did not do good but contributed to Bush just by enlisting. As hard as it might be for others to accept: THEIR CHILDREN DID DIE IN VAIN AND TOOK A LOT OF INNOCENT IRAQS WITH THEM.
Cindy
You have been an eloquent spokesperson for many of us who have no public platform and thus have no voice. You speak truth from your heart, and remind us of who we are as whole beings. We will miss your presence, your vision, and your heart, but as they say, one needs to feed themselves before they can feed others. When you find yourself healed, you will know your own next step.
Reading between the lines of your farewell letter, my interpretation would be that you have seen what the famous comic strip character Pogo said: “We have met the enemy, and they are us.”
The war continues because, on many levels (personally, institutionally, culturally) many US citizens have not purged war, ego, conflict and greed from their own hearts. We only get the leaders we deserve; we can only vote and act and speak as far as we can see clearly ourselves.
You can see truth because you have loosed yourself from attachment to party loyalty, ideological purity, and to ‘my country, right or wrong” in your search for that truth.
Those who have attacked you are those who personally identify themselves with the US, or with the Republicrats or Demophobes, or with military victory, and whom are like a rabid football fan who gets carried away and throws things at ‘his’ own team’s players when they lose. Those who have attacked you have lost their ability to see clearly because they are so heavily invested in, and identified with, a group, a cause, or simply with winning — and not wanting to be a ‘loser.’
It must be painful for you to immerse yourself in the fray as you have and see that many of the platitudes we hold to be true about our country and our political system don’t hold up in real life experience. Those realizations must feel like losses, but in the end you are a true winner because when you were called to stand, you gave your all, as Kipling captured so well in his poem ‘If” (slightly modified!)
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you
But make allowance for their doubting too,
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies,
Or being hated, don’t give way to hating,
And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream–and not make dreams your master,
If you can think–and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build ‘em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it all on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: “Hold on!”
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings–nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much,
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,
And–which is more–you’ll be a Citizen, my son!
–Rudyard Kipling
So, you fought the good fight and helped stifle the Republican run towards fascism. Good job!
However, hindsight is 20-20 vision, and the real problem here is that Americans forgot the lessons of Vietnam.
When I was 15 years old, Platoon came out - and my friend’s mother, who was married to a Vietnam vet, paid for several kids my age to go and see the movie. She was very insistent that we see it, and went with us to the theater since it was R-rated. As a result, we all learned about Vietnam, and about how war can easily turn into insanity.
The establishment spent decades trying to hide that knowledge from the American people, and largely succeeded - so now the American people have to learn the lessons of Vietnam all over again. Those of us who are children of Vietnam vets certainly haven’t forgotten them, however.
Some time later, we rented Platoon and watched it at a friend’s house - and halfway through, his father, a Vietnam vet came into the room with his face white and his eyes bugging out. “Turn that shit off!” he screamed. That’s what returning Iraqi vets have to look forward to - DECADES of trauma, of horrible memories that won’t go away, recurrent nightmates that won’t end, and an incapacity to make human connections.
If your son had come home, you might not have known who he was anymore. That’s what war does to people. What really infuriates me is that these lessons were buried by the media and by the politicians and by the businesspeople, who never had to go to war themselves, but who were very willing to profit from it.
My dad split when I was ten years old, and I haven’t seen him since - he couldn’t hack it. That’s what Vietnam did to people, and that’s what Iraq is doing to people. So forget about trying to tell the jaded adults the truth, Cindy - but maybe you should keep telling the grade-school kids about what’s really going on.
By the way, who is going to be the first to make a movie about Iraq? I bet that’s a question that gives the studio execs the heebie-jeebies.
First off I wish to extend my sincerest appreciation to Cindy for the sacrifices she has made, in both time and blood, by way of trying to shine the light of truth upon the heinousness of this “war”. God bless you and yours Cindy.
Secondly, I wanted to respond to a previous comment snippet.
“…just don’t be too surprised when those mercenaries from Blackwater, Inc. show up in our communities and start shooting us down in the street like stray dogs.”
Let them come. Though I may be shot down in the street as a dog, they should know in their coming that I will not easily be taken. I will make the price of my life very high indeed, thanks to my good friends Mr. Mossberg, Mr. Remington and Mr. Ruger.
Thank you, Cindy, whatever your decision as of now, for the powerful impact you’ve had on the anti-war movement.
You communicated in a way that all our words could not. You touched hearts.
The reason your smears were so severe, is because you are so threatening to those that profit off this war. Consider it a compliment that they worked so hard to kick you down. And of course, there are plenty in the Democratic party that are in on the take from the military industrial complex. It’s a facade among many Dems of opposition, and there are shills that go to the Left sites also, that work to undermine the powerful forces, like yourself, against their greedy, self serving causes, or convoluted perceptions of the “value” of the war.
Final thoughts…THANK YOU CINDY FOR ALL YOU’VE DONE. YOU ARE LOVED BY MILLIONS!
Ms. Sheehan came into the movement naive, I think. Clearly, from this beautiful, honest, heartfelt letter, she does not go on to other things unchanged. Her bitterness is earned.
Her analysis of what this country is - a fascist-corporate imperialist state is exactly correct. Her statement that our nation is impossible to love is absolutely accurate. Her reading on movement leadership, as ego-driven and out of touch with the population as the major political party leadership, is as undeniable as it is disgusting.
Her grief over the loss of her son is as honest as it will be perpetual; though - like nearly all military people - he did not die for nothing. He died trying to save his own ass and those of the combatants around him. That is largely what the violence of what we call “war” is about. Do anything you can to survive and help those around you survive. Most of the rest, except the ever-increasing need to justify murderous behavior, is pretty much bullshit.
Along the way, Ms. Sheehan exhibited a sense self-righteousness, born in the general a-historical outlook of the vast majority of “Middle Americans.” She describes herself - as the media anointed her - as “the face of the movement.”
That is just plain wrong. Too many people have sacrificed - and continue to sacrifice - as much and more than Ms. Sheehan in the day-to-day struggles for personal salvation and social justice. We cannot let any individual rise to a psuedo-position of being the face, the voice, the leader - or - to chide others from it. That’s Hollywood and Madison Ave.-think that contributes greatly to where we are today.
La Lucha Continua - The Struggle Continues
Dear Cindy Sheehan:
I am sorry you feel this way. However I truly don’t blame you. You did the heavy lifting. The mainstream Democrats in their arrogance sold out the American people. They threw you under the bus. You lost something precious that can never be replaced and that was your beloved son, Casey. My heart goes out to you. Cindy, you didn’t fail America. America failed you. Cindy, it’s ok to be a little selfish. You gave America your 110%. It’s high time you give back that 110% to yourself. Be good to yourself, Cindy. And shame on those who sold out the antiwar movement for expediency. There’s a special place in hell for them. God Bless you Cindy Sheehan and may your son, Casey, rest in peace.
Cindy,
Oh how we have failed you. You have done more for this cause than anyone. I agree whole-heartedly with your sentiments and have come to the same conclusions.
I feel like I know you — I couldn’t go to Crawford (but really, really wanted to) and followed it everyday on Truthout.org. I was there when you were on stage with Hugo Chavez at the WSF, I hugged you in the parking lot in Phoenix where we just happened to cross paths on the way to the rally, I marched with you in DC and heard you speak at the PDA teach-in afterward. I have donated to all of your causes (not a lot, but what I could) and consider you one of my greatest heroes. You inspired me, and even now, as you take this next step, you inspire me still. Your courage, commitment, and just the sheer magnitude of what you did and what you accomplished (which I would say is WAY MORE than any other group or single individual has on this issue) is overwhelming. I love you, Cindy. You will always be my hero.
In peace and solidarity - la lucha sigue…
I haven’t cried in a long time about the state of our union, but I’ve cried a lot today reading your letter, Cindy, and these inspirational postings. My daughter went to the local memorial day parade (I couldn’t go it hurt so much) and held her handmade sign ‘ Remember the Iraqi Citizens’. Today it is part of my peace statue in the front yard. I, too, am at the point of cultivating my own garden and believe that the coup which began on September 11 will continue to “lock-down” our country. I have given up on the Democrats, and I sincerely believed last November that I could breathe again. But has Habeus Corpus been returned to us? No. Has the Patriot Act been dismantled? No. Does Bush have blackmail gossip on everybody in congress? Yes. Will he give up the executive power that has been the one and only thing his government has been able to do (or chosen to do)? Why would they accumulate all that power only to give it up? I’m frightened and I’m sad. I want to leave this country but I don’t want to leave my family/community/friends which is what keeps me getting out of bed every day. My gut knows the truth and it’s no longer an overreaction. Worse things, much worse, are coming. Cindy, know that you did more for us than you can ever know. Your work has not been in vain. Look to the natural world, live and rest there. Thank you, Warrior Cindy, be at peace.
dear cindy, i watched your actions with interest as you took on the power with reckless abandon as only a mother can. i share your pain and frustration over the unpredictable outcomes of your actions. you have turned a corner in realizing that left and right are both divisive. and, yes, nonaction is always better than wrong action. human we are, one and all, rich and poor, prisoners of our own minds. in healing ourselves, we can help to heal those around us. perhaps this is all that we can do…
Cindy, talking to you by telephone last year was the highlight of my husband’s last weeks of life (My daughter had picked you up at a Manhattan jail following your arrest at the U.N.).
My friend from Austin, TX who joined you at Camp Casey has nothing but praise for you and what you have meant to the peace movement in our beleaguered country.
Know that you continue to be supported by countless millions for whom you have been a voice speaking truth to power.
Heal, my friend.
Cindy,
Thank you for all you have tried to do. Your efforts have once again proven to all of us that the insidious virus affecting American culture is deeper than one political administration’s renegade assault on the Constitution, or our predatory economic conspiracy to control the world’s resources aided by our reprehensible military-industrial appetite for pre-emptive mastery, or our violent and hedonistic-escapist popular culture, or our religious complicity in support of Empire, or the impoverished collective imagination that can’t conceive ourselves to be mutually-interdependent inhabitants of the earth but only as winners. The old word for our personal and cultural dis-ease is “sin,” now manifest as an implicit master-race anthropology that is systematically engineered through vast and pervasively competitive socialization processes that shape and support our way of being (in)human together from cradle to grave. The remedy is another old fashioned concept–repentence–personal and corporate. Against the temptation to despair that I share with you, Cindy, I continue to hope against hope that our faith communities will one day (soon) awaken to their prophetic heritage and call us all to repentennce–that is, to reconsider our human vocation to be responsible creatures, caregivers, and stewards of life. “The meek shall inherit the earth.”
Cindy,
I forgot to mention that the biggest peace rally ever in my red-city was in support of you at Camp Casey. We all “stood with Cindy” that night and it gave me chills and hope to see what I never thought I would see in Phoenix. And all the people driving by were WITH US for once.
I still stand with Cindy!
Thank you, Cindy. Your wisdom, courage and dedication will be remembered for a long time to come.
Unfortunately, too many Duhmerikans don’t want peace and will continue to manifest the war, poverty and oppression they deserve. I left the US several years ago after coming to the conclusion that things weren’t going to change because too many people supported the insanity.
The warmongers/war profiteers who kill unarmed men, women, and children in other lands have sold their souls to the devil for the almighty dollar. Nothing else matters to them but $$$$$.
When George Bush stole his way into the White House in 2000, I cried because I knew the country that I loved was disappearing. If he had won fair and square I could have accepted it; but he didn’t, and things have steadily gone downhill ever since for America.
Bush quote, referring to 9/11: “The day ended on a relatively HUMEROUS note…we (himself and wife Laura) got a laugh out of it.” If that’s not enough, he called 9/11 his “trifecta!” Don’t tell me he wasn’t thrilled that 9/11 occurred. He (at least) allowed it to happen by ignoring warnings for months in the spring and summer of 2001. Since Iraq was always on BushCo’s agenda, it makes you wonder if 9/11 was the “Pearl Harbor” that the New World Order neocons mentioned that they needed. They’ve used it as an excuse to turn the U.S. into a fascist state.
You are a brave and nobel human being, Cindy Sheehan. Those who don’t understand you smear you because they have not reached the evolution you have reached in this life. They will one day see what you see.
Until then, I wish you the best in your solitude and peace. You deserve it. You have already done millions more than the average ‘American’. Until the rest of these people suffer more and learn those same lessons, we can just pray and hope this world can survive their continued ignorance before its too late.
As a registered Democrat I apologize that my party let you down. I must say that I find it very puzzling that we simply cannot stand up to this administration. Thank you for your powerful courage and dedication. Please know that it has not been wasted. You are a model for us all.
Thank you Cindy. God Bless you.
Cindy Sheehan — a true hero (heroine is outdated, right?), to people from all over the world, of whatever nationality. She is the greatest American hero that the Iraq War has produced.
Thank you, Cindy. You have been a role model, reminding all of us that the Iraq war needs the same kind of civilian involvement that it took to end Vietnam; namely, we’ve got to collectively “hit the streets” in such a way that the government and media cannot continue to ignore us.
For the rest of us, what impact would there be from a million protesters in the streets of every major US city? And don’t just tell me that it’s been tried and ignored, because we let them ignore us by not “staying the course”! Remember Berlin in ‘89, and the Ukraine recently? Like Cindy, we (in the millions) need to be prepared to stay awhile, camp out if need be, until our message is heard and taken seriously.
Cindy has done more than her share. It’s time for the rest of us to form “peace camps” around every city hall in this country, starting with the big one in D.C.
Cindy,
Thank you for standing up and talking truth to power. It is very difficult in America, where the gloves are off at the word “go”, to keep the discission civil,but you are to be commended.
You have bravely gone where no fallen soldier’s mom had gone before and I thank you for your service. If you ran for congress in my district, I would vote for you in a heartbeat.
Sincerely,
Andrew Herman
PS–We’ll miss you and your bravery.
Cindy, you have my best wishes and blessings. Your voice and courage inspired me to get more involved. I’ve been fortunate, so far no friend or family has fallen for the continued occupation of Iraq. However, I have a young child and I must stay involved for the sake of my child and others, here and abroad. And yes, like you I also feel betrayed by the DEM party “leadership.” At least the GOP house members stay the course, the DEMs using cut and run at the wrong time. The DEMs can now join the GOP in feeding off the carcass that we made of Iraq. 110 dead for May 2007, 104 in April 2007, will 4,000 be enough? The hands of the DEMs are just as soaked in blood and oil like the GOP, led those “bleeaders/leaders” answer to their god. May my god bless you Cindy Sheehan, a true American.
This lady was the St. Joan of the anti-war movement. Yet many of us became so complacent to the need for direct involvement with her that we allowed her instead to shield us by taking direct hits from the unrelenting forces of militarism and corporatism in this country while we went about our daily routines. It cost her in several ways. But it cost us more. It cost us a determined spokesperson, activist and leader. Shame on us. We deserve every kick in the head and blow to the gut down the road for our foolishness in thinking Cindy and a small group of committed activists could do what we all should have been doing. But then that’s why we’re all in the mess we’re in today… let someone else do it.
Thank you Cindy. Forgive me for being remiss in marching beside you.
I feel a deep sense of waste and grief today. It is as if I have lost a friend, even if all I did was give Cindy a hug once. Take care of yourself, Cindy. I wish you love and PEACE.
Bonnie S.
Yes, she did more than her share. Yes, mostly we are all behind her in attitude. But is that enough? I’m a military spouse who got tired of going to protests alongside people with “no blood for oil” signs, who then got in their cars and drove the same amount as they always had. It is discouraging to listen to an environmentalist complain about Hummers and worry about global warming, then mention the vacation travel by plane they have coming up. Cindy was talking about all of us more than we’d like to admit. We’re not badgering our elected officials; we’re not closing down the country like you hear of elsewhere when people get disgusted with corruption and evil. We’ve been duped into devoting ourselves to comfort and fulfillment and convenience. Even the most recent Sierra magazine, with a large section on global warming, did not mention flying, and did not include flying in its little “target global warming” diagram. We’ve gotten spoiled and complacent, and would like to, as she put it, show up for protests and then complain on the internet, and feel we’ve helped. If we want to support her, we should stop flying, period, and begin cutting our driving back till we’re using it for absolute essentials and no more. We can buy secondhand goods and raise as much of our own food as we can, and buy locally every possible bit after that. This war was started because our system allowed it and even demanded it. We let it continue because it would have been inconvenient to rise to the kind of action that would have stopped it. We could have, we still can.
My dear Cindy, Your work has not been in vain. I know you are exhausted and feeling discouraged. You did not fail. It is not our place to control the outcome or to know what results from our efforts, but to do our best and you did that. You have lit a path and many are now on it because of you. Rest in comfort with that knowledge and know we cherish you and Casey for your sacrifices. Your courage and steadfastness have inspired us to reach for what is also within us. Ignore those who attack you out of fear. They do not count. They will attack anything that challenges their comfort. Listen to those who admire and love you, we are many.
With all my love, Kathy
Cindy,
Thank you for all of your work and your efforts in the memory of your son. I’ve lost hope with the Dems as well. They are, to paraphrase Ralph Nader, no different than the Republicans…at all.
Peace and solace to you.
First, thank you Cindy for your efforts to save the lives of other sons and daughters of Americans and Iraqis and others.
There is a chill in the air as summer of 2007 approaches and I am sorry to hear that you caught a cold. I hope you feel better soon and continue to compete against other attention whores like O’Reilley and Couric and Hannarity and Lumbahhh and Anne Coulter and others to be our American Idol.
Good luck and thanks again.
Thank you Cindy Sheehan for all the good (and it is much) that you have done.
p.s. If you haven’t yet, you might want to read Richard Bach’s novel, “Illusions, the Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah”. You just might find some inspiration, healing, and meaning in it.
Peace.
Cindy’s journey has taken her through a part of America that few have ever seen first-hand. Our political system and our media system. She is obviously fed up with the political system and seen first hand the media manipulation that takes place in our “free press” country. We should listen to her concerns. She’s like a veteran of a war. She has been through a lot and I’m sure that she has gained quite a bit of wisdom that she would gladly share if America would debrief her. Shouldn’t we, as a society be asking ourselves what drives an unknown-mid-forties- mid-American mother to leave her cherished suburban home in a rage against her own government? Isn’t that a more interesting thing to talk about than who will be the next American Idol.? You want to talk reality television? We may not all like what she has to say but you can’t deny her credibility. She personifies what is great about America. A strong belief in our government and the people who run it. She came out of her kitchen to do battle with her government. She’s returning home not defeated, only wounded.
But I’m glad to hear that Cindy has given up on politics. It was sad to watch her eaten alive. But, I’m not surprised to hear her say she will continue to fight “trying to help people in the world who are harmed by the empire”. She’s only quitting the political process by her quitting the Democratic Party. Which is something I congratulate her on. It’s the same thing that several American unions did a few years ago. They recognized that support for the Democratic party was actually hurting rank and file members. They withdrew from the national union and are seeking better ways to help their members than by spending it on elected politicians. The whole notion of two political parties in America a joke. If there were two different parties then we would get two different kinds of government. But all we get is a continuation of the status quo. We change leaders in America but we don’t change the system that they operate.
D.C. is corrupt. Some may say just some are corrupt. You know the system is corrupt when people like Cunningham and Abramhof, and countless others, can be major players over a long period of time. In an open honest system those characters would have been stopped. To strangle the real democratic procedure doesn’t take much once you throw out honesty. Without honesty the whole process begins to stink. This is what drove Cindy out of politics. It’s now wrong to assume that our elected officials will act honorably or in accordance with our Constitution. They want to get reelected, but they need to have money to do that. Here’s when personal integrity clashes with the values of today. In our “win at any cost” society it’s not surprising that our political system would not remain immune from the poison of such an attitude that has sadly been adopted by so many Americans.
Thanks Cindy for exposing and bringing to the surface more examples of our fraudulent political system and our compliant national corporate media. Your journey was better than any book or movie can be. And I look forward to hearing from you again. Recover and regroup. Moms need to sound off more. Too many years of TV moms need to be balanced with years and years of angry moms. I trust moms to take better care of the house than dads. It would be nice if both worked together. But just like our political system, if there isn’t an actual opposition than you have a dictatorship, not a democracy. When the chips are down in America like they are today, I would rather have Cindy as society’s mother than June or Jane.
Hoa binh
Thank you, Cindy, for showing the world that one courageous person who isn’t afraid to speak truth to power can bring about change. Yours was at first the lone voice crying in the wilderness, saying loudly what so many had wanted to say bud didn’t know how to get it heard. You figured that out, and the rest is history. The anti-war movement is strong now, and it’s largely to your credit that its voice has swelled. We’re not done. You deserve a break, a rest, and a chance to retrieve your life. Here’s promising we’ll carry on with your inspiration in mind.
I met you in Crawford at a rally in November, 2005, handed you some flowers, had my picture taken with you. I’ll pass it down to my children with pride.
You are a true hero!
You did more than I would in your shoes, Cindy. Let it be somebody else’s turn.
Thank you Cindy for your service.
As a movement we need to learn how to honor and appreciate those who serve the peace movement. Those on the front lines of the peace movement and demonstrations are true patriots who need recognition just as those serving at the battle front. Perhaps that is the lesson we can learn from Cindy’s resignation.
The making of peace is a service of honor…at least as significant as the service of making war.
Peace,
Greg
Thank you Cindy Sheehan!
My 16 year old son and I discussed who should be the Person of the Year and the first person who popped into our head is you. You are a hero to so many people.
The Sheehan family has given us two heroes.
Casey Sheehan did not become a hero when he died in battle. He became a hero when he raised his hand and swore the soldier’s oath to defend the Constitution and obey orders.
Cindy Sheehan did not become a hero when her son was killed. She became a hero when she demanded an explanation for Casey’s death from the thieves and liars who sent him to fight, not for the Constitution, but to conquer the oil fields of the Persian Gulf.
Thank you Cindy. You have inspired millions of us to take action, large or small, each in our own way.
Take back you life now and tend to your children. Your contribution has been enough. We will see the job finished and never forget you.
You folks have said it all. I have shaken Cindy’s hand, and will never forget my pilgrimage to Camp Casey II. She is an inspiration to millions of Americans, despite what the media may portray.
Now…those of you inspired by Cindy and pissed off at the Democrats in Congress, please consider voting for, running as, or organizing around Green Party candidates next year. We Greens may not be the solution all by ourselves, but the Green Movement can certainly serve as that solution’s political arm if enough citizens defect.
http://www.gp.org
I feel strongly that We the People are living within a broken system. It may be the only way toward change is to invent a way to live that is so much better than what we have that everyone will want to do it…even brain-dead Republicans….Certainly a lovely side effect of that better way to live will be the absence of Democrats, Republicans and any sort of organized religion. Time for us to go direct, without all these middlemen getting their cut.
“Face piles of trials with smiles
It riles them to believe that you perceive the webs they weave,
and keep on thinking free.”
–The Moody Blues
With or without Cindy Sheehan, the struggle goes on, and I will do my best to keep trying. We each have our own task, and we can approach it as we see fit, or ignore it all together. This is freedom. This is life. It’s as heavy or light as we make it. Smile.
BAHippie
I, too, have renounced the Dems, much inspired by you, Cindy. You’re right - until millions of “attention whores” make enough trouble, our spiral into collapse will continue unabated.
Thank you for your selfless efforts…
Sorry Folks,
Even though I sympathize with Cindy’s sentiments, I don’t think she is entitled to quit.
Don’t accomodate this kind of thinking.
What the hell is the matter with you people, complaining about apathy and giving up, and then encouraging one of the most effective activists of our generation to lay low.
Hey, the hell with that.
The way I see it is Cindy can use this piece to blow off the Dems, but not to lay down and die.
How can one not be sad at your departure from leading the peace movement. In spite of the warmongers of the political elite of the Former USA you have made a difference. I know not what your country has become. I feel that it has lost itself and what was once called the arsenal of democracy is now in the hands of those who would build a Fourth Reich.
La plus que ca change, le plus que c’est le meme chose.
The lady’s got a right to look after her own family now.
The way I see it she fought the good fight.
Me? I’m an outsider, but maybe you ought to ask yourself, WWVD?
What Will Vern Do?
I’m just sayin’…
Dear Ms. Sheehan (I can’t call a mother of adult children by her first name, that’s just the way I was raised),
First of all I hope you are doing well. Grieving is a long process, and I know of few others whose grieving has been submitted to so much scrutiny and outright critcism by people who should know better.
You fear that Casey has died for nothing; on the contrary, you have given his death meaning, by not relenting even in the face of such viciousness. I will always remember the sense of hope and pride that I felt in the summer of 2005, when someone was finally telling the truth to the face of power.
I am beyond ashamed at the actions of the Democrats, especially those who have turned on you personally. Each slam on you was another blow against the already crumbling credibility of the Democratic Party.
[For Cindy, a pilgrim on the Human road.]
And the pilgrim asked his god…
“When we speak of waging war, Lord,
should we not, more loudly yet,
consider fostering a peace?
Shoud we not, in the marrow of our
living bone, feel great stabs of shame
for having entertained so primitive
a notion?
“When we wage the war, Lord,
should we not reel in horror,
should we not weep in utter disbelief
at the depth of hate
and fear
and violence
and insecurity
to which we find ourselves capable
of descending;
should we not stand aghast
against this failure to communicate
our greatest gift,
should we not beg forgiveness
against this grave neglect
of the one true inheritance
which sets us apart from all your
wondrous creatures?
“And should we not, then, Lord,
return this gift you’ve given,
humbly place it at a distance
from ourselves, offer it to ones
who may, perchance, appreciate
the significance of its unsurpassable
potential?
“When we perpetuate the war, Lord,
And fail to even visualize a Peace,
can we claim to be intelligent,
can we claim to be adept,
can we claim to skim the surface
of but your shallowest perceptions?
“When we mock and shun and slander
PEACE, Lord,
do we not deny ourselves
and all our kind
and all the progeny hereafter
the very promise
of our
Human
Virtue?”
Dear Cindy…
In March, 2007, Military Families Speak Out and Supporters awarded YOU an Oscar for Peace…for all that you have done for the PEACE movement. I was there that day, on the corner of Hollywood and Vine as an MSFO supporter…I nominated YOU for that PEACE award, Cindy. You are my hero, my role model for strength, for telling it like it is, for bravery, and spunk, for holding your head up high, even when you want to break down and sob…for your son…who was murdered by a force that seems unstoppable.
You are tired, you have been belittled, you feel that the world is caving in on you. Please, let we, the PEACE community take over for you…for a while…YOU rejuvenate, reflect, count your blessings, love your family, your friends. Reflect on Casey, why he died, and why you started fighting for the truth….”FOR WHAT NOBLE CAUSE, MR. BUSH?” in the first place….Reflect on why you sacrificed so much…FOR YOUR SON, your son, Cindy…and for the countless millions of humans who have/will die(d) in order to pad the already-bulging pocket$$$ of corrupt corporate sociopaths…
Remember Margaret Mead’s powerful words, Cindy? “NEVER DOUBT that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
You changed the direction of the PEACE movement, Cindy.
Thank you for being ther