McChrystal is wrong, but so is Obama

Gen. Stanley McChrystal's article in “Rolling Stone” magazine created quite a stir and rightly so. He is telling us not only what he thinks but what general command thinks of President Obama and his inner circle, and it is obviously not much faith in them.

He was wrong to voice this opinion as long as he serves (Obama has relieved him of his command). It is insubordination. Resign, then you can sound off, but as long as you serve in the military, you obey orders and stay quiet. President Obama does not impress me. I think of him as a parading peacock, with little substance. I don't think he will be re-elected.

His administration languishes like that of Jimmy Carter, depending on whom the Republicans throw up.

It will take a Ronald Reagan- or a JFK-type tax cutter to get this country moving again - one who can think pragmatically and dispense with the rigid doctrines of the extreme right and left to end the war machine and runaway government, and drive jobs.

Cort Stapleton

Cedar Rapids

What we can learn from the Romans' demise

Edward Gibbons' reasons for the fall of the Roman Empire: Rapid increase of divorce. Undermining of the dignity and sanctity of the home, which is the basis of human society. Higher and higher taxes, and the spending of public money for free board and circuses for the populace.

The mad craze for pleasure, sports becoming every year more exciting and more brutal. The decadence of the people.

The decay of religion, faith fading into mere form, becoming impotent to guide people.

Because of some senseless letters in the editorial page, let's heed the truth from history's failures and why? Three words: Me, myself and I, rather than we, our and us.

Pastor L.C. Beener

Anamosa