Here's the thing--I understand the reasons for going to war in the Middle East, stopping human suffering, giving the choice for freedom to people who are unable to secure it for themselves, not to mention making sure that the Western powers are in control of the last remaining carbon-based fossil fuels upon which our entire global economy is based.

I know the reason all to well.

But when I ask myself if I would urge my son to go and fight for Iraqi freedom or to secure the long-term American interest by murdering human beings who have not invaded my country or my personal land directly even if they talk about doing it--I have to say no.

I am not willing to give my son over to the state or the state's interests. I will teach my son how to defend himself, his family and his land but I cannot, in good faith, tell him that it is either wise or noble to die for a symbol, be it iron, gold, or an conferred idea in the minds of the rich which plays out with the bodies and blood of the poor and middle class.

I understand all too well the reasons for going to war in the Middle East and I am not willing to give my son's life for them. If he makes that choice on his own then that is his choice but the war will not enter the conversation in my home until it encroaches upon my land.