..I'm not sure I agree with that, but it's intellectual consistency is admirable.

I usually enjoy subway performers. And, as part of my five year old son's religious training, he's been taught to always give a quarter to beggars -- but a dollar to musicians (the thing about helping those who help themselves)

Later, he can learn to parse out some distinctions about charity--right now he needs to learned that in Hebrew, the word for charity means "Justice"

And, since we're so intent upon imbuing him with the values we embrace, we're not too keen about others poaching upon our turf without our permission (when he become a teen, this will become his choice). What fucking nerve!

Still, we have to understand that those who attempt to convert others believe they are doing G-d's work, and within sensible and consistent limits (keeping away from my kid at the top of the list) our constitution allows them to do so. And, with all due respect for Mr. Bouldin's wise words, it is not inconsistent for them to say they put a high value on family values, but a higher value upon their crackpot interpretation of what they see as G-d's word.

I embrace tolerance and love my bill of rights, but sometimes following the course where they lead almost makes me want to burn a flag.

America, what a country!