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Donald Johnson — Mon, 12 May 2008 17:53:01 GMT

I lived in Thailand for the past 5 years, and not too far from Myanmar. I agree that 1.5 million people are at risk of dying there unless the world community acts decisively and over-rides the roadblocks put up by the junta. I think that the US Navy should start airlifting supplies directly into the Irrawaddy Delta area, without the permission of the Myanmar military. The US Navy has the technical prowess to counter Myanmar's air defenses, but I also believe they can do this without worrying about interference from the Myanmar Air Force, because the junta would not want to create an international incident over trying to stop food from getting to their own people. Plus, they would not want the embarassment of admitting that they were impotent at preventing the aid from getting through should they try, so I think they would be too afraid to try and will look the other way. In SE Asia it is better to pretend nothing is happening than to lose face by admitting you are powerless to stop it. They might even give permission after the fact to allow foreign aid workers in, to regain some control over the process. So, I think we and the other Western nations, including France, should call their bluff.

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Richard D. Trifan — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:29:02 GMT

I think all governments with gunship helicopters should fill them eith food, water and medical supplies (that can be air-dropped), paint a Red Cross or Red Crescent logo on the helos, and fly directly over the Irawaddy Delta, the most affected region, and perform the air-drops. If any Myanmar militia shoots at them, the gunships should eradicate any military instllation firing from the ground.
Richard Trifan
Ringwood, N.J. 07456

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AJ — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:44:22 GMT

We didnt allow Venezuela help us out (Katrina or oil issues)and have not given Mexico credit for all the illegals rebuilding New Orleans..Its the same thing..We should look at ourselves before creating judgement on Myanmar leaders..

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BBrooks, Portland, Oregon — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:58:50 GMT

In a world where dozens, if not hundreds of terrorist and military leaders continue to oppress and restrict citizens even the simplest basic needs I can’t help to wonder why President Bush picked out Saddam of Iraq to attack knowing he really was one of the better dictators. Does anyone know what Bush really was/is after?

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Kevin D. Zephyrhills, FL — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:02:11 GMT

I too am glad that I was born in a free country. We may have a gluttonous overzealous corporate run government, but at least they help us and allow anybody else in that wants to help.

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Robert Boos, Plainview, New York — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:21:26 GMT

What can one expect from a bunch of military thugs? One mmust always bear in mind that military people are seldom compassionate people. Alexander and Julius Caesar are good examples. Many of us are familiar with the excesses of Genghis and Kublai Khan.

Alexander slaughtered the inhabitants of cities that would not surrended to him immediately. Julius Caesar hired thugs to beat up his political opponents.

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John Doe — Mon, 12 May 2008 19:55:15 GMT

Boo, Myanmar military junta. Boo, girls dancing and balloons being released into the air. BOOOO, I say!

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Karalee Krueger, San Antonio, Tx — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:10:08 GMT

It is my observation that should someplace like, oh let's say Plainview NY for instance, be slammed with any sort of major disaster, the US military will be the first ones in to risk their lives to save people. I agree with the airdrop notion. Our uncompassionate military did it for Berlin, why not Myanmar? If fired upon in the process, they should be allowed to defend themselves. There would need to be strict rules in play, but I think it could be made to work.

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Boston, MA — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:11:16 GMT

We have a government we can count on? Ummm, Helllooooo, KATRINA!?!?!

yeah, let's send in war ships and force aid on them - umm... OUR TROOPS ARE WORN OUT, RUN THIN, AND THERE'S NO FUNDING LEFT! Would love to know if the bone-heads that suggested that have been in the military, on A SECOND OR THIRD TOUR IN IRAQ. If not, get YOUR butt in so MY kid can come HOME.

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EFricke, OC, CA — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:27:07 GMT

"Saddam of Iraq to attack knowing he really was one of the better dictators."
BBrooks, Portland, Oregon (Sent Monday, May 12, 2008 2:58 PM)

Your kidding right? Please tell me your joking? Because, the rapes, the killings, and execution squads really depict an excellent upstanding dictator.

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toby hill, carrollton, texas — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:34:37 GMT

Who cares? The media ends up lying about everything anyway. There's a crisis going on and since the media's trustworthiness is lower than a used car salesman how would anyone believe the extent of the crisis? I have been in contact with a church group in Burma and while they want to get the people help, they don't want the media exploiting the crisis to sell stories in which none of the profits will even help the suffering.

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Wendy, Bellefontaine, Ohio — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:38:26 GMT

I agree that the people of Myanmar need help. Someone made the comment that we did not allow Venizuela to help us with Katrina...not to say that Katrina was not horrific but this is a cyclone in an already poor country (not rich like the US), they have already lost over 100,000 lives in a week....I think Myanmar is much worse off and those people deserve help.....however we have to get it there.

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M.O. in New Orleans — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:39:24 GMT

"But my predominant emotion is thanks to the world into which I was fortunate enough to be born. My world has enough food and my vote is a force that cannot be changed, unlike Zimbabwe; I can say what I like, unlike in Tibet; and I know I can count on my government in case of a natural disaster, unlike in Myanmar."

Mr. Fletcher,

If you think YOUR government will be there for you after a storm, you have either a very short memory OR you need to start reading more! Our great and wonderful FEMA is just as deficient NOW as they were for Katrina. Nothing has changed so BEWARE people.....when the perfect storm comes you better evacuate (with your own plan and enough money to carry it out) or expect to die of exposure.

We may not have a Junta but what we do have is incompetence beyond belief in ALL government agencies - especially FEMA.

My heart goes out those in Burma. I agree with the other posters - the US and other countries to bring the aid and fire on anyone that tries to stop them.

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Peggy S., Pontiac, IL — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:40:01 GMT

"I too am glad that I was born in a free country. We may have a gluttonous overzealous corporate run government, but at least they help us and allow anybody else in that wants to help."

To Kevin D: Ask the citizens of New Orleans where all that "government" help is---they're still trying to repair and rise above the havoc caused by Hurricane Katrina almost three years ago. And did you honestly read some of the stories concerning that disaster? The U.S. refused help from certain countries such as Venezuela and Cuba. And it's our citizens that should have had that kind of deliberation, not the government. Before remarking on how glorious our nation is---take a look in our own back yard. We don't even treat our military personnel properly. I'm sick of the HOORAY USA that everybody signs up for these days. I'm not a traitor---yes, we have certain freedoms not enjoyed by most in other developing nations. Yet, our country isn't "all that", either. People need to get REAL.

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Simon, Cleveland,Ohio — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:43:09 GMT

Why aren't we hearing about the high and mighty Soviet Union helping out - or the Saudis, or those crazy guys from Dubai who are building, building, building? Where are all those goof balls - jeeez!

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Terri, PA — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:44:04 GMT

I think that we should care less about the rest of the world. How many countries helped the USA when we were attacked? How many are helping us feed our children?? How many are stepping up to help us in our time of need? Time to focus on home and our rising costs. How many people have to choose between gas or food these days?? Worry about home first. Our government should take care of us before sending millions of dollars to other countries. Look at our people still struggling after being hit by Katrina. No other country stepped up and helped us when we needed it. We are a stupid country for not taking care of our own. No one else cares about us and neither does our government. Shame on everyone that does not see that the Americans need help as well.

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Dan, Levittown, Pa — Mon, 12 May 2008 20:51:17 GMT

I say turn em around, if they want to play games we have other needs for our resources.

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Stone, San Francisco, CA — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:00:47 GMT

"Tibetans complain of beatings and killings." is an assertion by the author without concrete evidences. It might have happened. Why is there no mention of tens of the innocent people the Tibetan rioters killed? Is it good journalism to present only your views?

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bhoover altoona,pa — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:03:21 GMT

to bbrooks portland oregon..how many people do you have to kill to be a good dictator???

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Legolas, AZ — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:04:42 GMT

Truth be told, unilateral action by the US or any country to drop aid unrequested will be seen as another act of invasion that will be cited by many countries in their future dealings with the US. Although it makes a lot of sense and some countries will support it, it will create longer-term tension and divisions as to who has the sovereign power over their own people, is it their government or any country can simply go in when they have humanitarian reason behind their action. What happens is a complicated game of world politics that must be played out carefully, perhaps even at the cost of a few hundred thousands of people. Unreasonable? Maybe. Which is why the US would've been better off invading Myanmar than Iraq if its motive is really to bring democracy to the world, but they don't have oil, just some lowland swamps waiting for a disaster to happen.

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Chris C — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:08:07 GMT

At this point, who cares? Are we going to start wars with more countries because they wont let us HELP them? You want to change the world, DONT help them, let there people die and see then if their govt's can stay in power. We cant take care of people in our own country, I am tired of us running to help everyone else in the world. Are we supposed to next spend millions/billions to help the victims of the today's Chinese earth quake? Come one, China cant help its own people?? I don't want to be called cold and cruel, but the entire world hates us (often rightfully so), and we are supposed to help them?

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ALB, Milwaukee, WI — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:09:06 GMT

Like AJ, I wonder how the world viewed post-Katrina issues. Unlike Myanmar, I believe we do (and did) have the resources to address the devastation - we just didn't do very well at making sure they were organized to assist in the most timely fashion. I read an article that said the Myanmar leader had not been seen since the cyclone hit and I think about relying too heavily on one single word of OK before aid can be sent. Maybe an over ride is due.

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david,baltimore — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:09:17 GMT

The Junta should be given an ultimatum.Either cooprate in assisting thier own people or face crimes against humanity charges in the Hague.If convicted an international force should be commissioned to arest all of them and turn them over to their own people.I think you would see some quick cooperation.

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Ann, Los Angeles, CA — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:14:28 GMT

Yes, this is a horrible incident, but we Americans need to stop thinking we are the "only" way to do things. Our journalists just want the story and will leave...our soldiers are already hard at work. Just because these countries are not democracies does not make them horific. Just because we are "free" doesn't make us good...we need to help our own and stop trying to fix everyone else...

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Jeremiah, Portland OR — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:21:34 GMT

I think it's premature to say you can count on your government in the case of a natural disaster. If you are from the U.S., don't forget about Hurricane Katrina.

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Bill Edwards, Surrey, B.C. Canada — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:22:03 GMT

I have a few questions for those of you who are suggesting that gun ships, navy boats, and jets should be used to air drop supplies into Irrawaddy Delta, and shoot down any opposition from the forces of Myanmar's Oppressive military regime.
What's this "we" crap you're spouting? "We" implies that you're ready, willing, and able to participate in this action, whereas in fact, you're doing nothing more than sitting on your cans recommending to others what "They" should do.
Are you writing your entry from a plane headed over there, intent on contributing to the welfare of these affected people, regardless of the responses of the regime? I doubt it. Again, you are sitting in a nice comfortable chair telling the world what to do.
Is your Passport up to date? How about you get on a plane, and give those people a real hand instead of yak-yak.
How much less have yoiu eaten in the last week, and how much less have you spent on yourselves in the last week with the intent of making sure the money saved, and/or not spent gets into the hands of organizations dedicated to working and not talking?
Me?
For your information, 4 days ago I was sitting in my comfirtable living room in British Columbia, Canada talking to my wife, who had just returned from the area of China that was devastated by an earthquake yesterday afternoon.
It is now just after 4:00 am in Bangkok, it's raining buckets, humid, in the high 70's, and miserable. In a couple of hours, it'll be daylight, In four hours, I will be doing the same thing I was doing all of yesterday afternoon. Standing in a line-up waiting for permission to enter Myanmar, and help in any way I can, whether it be digging graves, or hauling garbage.
I don't belong to any relief agency, or to some group of Bible Thumpers willing to feed those who are willing to listen to the word of God first, although I understand I will be assigned to an NGO once consent is given. I'm just Joe Blow. I don't care about military regimes, corrupt politicians, or anything else like that. I just care.
I'm not independently wealthy either. My boss has granted me my vacation early, and even added one more paid week, so I'll see you in a month. In the meantime, I still have a mortgage to pay, and other bills to look after. The only advantage I do have is that our kids are grown and gone.
My wife? Bless her heart. Dispite the fact relatives of hers are being affected by the earthquake in China, she'll be joining me in about a week. Right after she's checked on them.
I get sick of listening to people preach and do nothing about it.
Don't tell me you "can't" do anything to help either. I don't buy into that.......ever. No passport? Get one. No spare money around to either buy tickets with, or send help? Why? Everyone should have savings. Can't afford it? Hmmmm. Seems to me that all this time you spend criticizing others, and encouraging the world to do your work for you is time you could spend holding down a second job, or running a small business that'd give you that money.

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Lori SArno chicago, IL — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:26:21 GMT

Obviously the Junta do not want to help their own people or they would have postponed elections to prioritize efforts to save their fellow people. Instead they are worried about their own political fate. Perhaps if hundreds of thousands die, it is less people they have to micromanage and support with government funds. I hope their fate is sealed by their ability to so easily turn their backs on their own citizens. I wish the Myanmar people the strength to one day over turn these ruthless, evil dictators. It would be ideal if their helicopters suddenly crashed into the Irrawady Delta cesspool that they have created.

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Mike, Birmingham AL — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:29:31 GMT

Why can't we do a "regime change" in Burma?

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Ted Weiss, Molalla, Oregon — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:33:43 GMT

I agree with Richard Trifan. Let the compassionate forces of the world come in and take care of these people by doing air drops and rain some death upon any Myanmar military that fires upon them.

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Danya DeNiro. Mesa,AZ — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:36:32 GMT

I agree with Ann.

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Z, New Orleans, LA — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:38:03 GMT

WOW Bill, I think everyone who posted just got told by you.

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Bill Shawgrilla — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:46:04 GMT

Katrina - other countries did come in and help -
I am sure I remember Mexican Military troops, Canadian, German volunteers and perhaps others. The Cubans and Venezuelans offered and were turned down.
It sounds good to propose closed US borders etc, but we can't turn back the clock, it is a global situation. Not 1923..... If no help gets into Mynamar perhaps pressure will be put on the military gov't.
Enough people finally say NO and many troops will not shoot there own relatives....
I do think India, Austailia, and Saudia Arabia being from that area could help as much as we the USA can.
A simple guy from Indiana....

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Bill Bruner, Oklahoma City, OK — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:46:35 GMT

The biggest blow to hypocrisy is action based on pure intentions. The quickest blow to a blog like this is an honest challenge by the man that took that action. It sure got quiet in here...

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San Diego — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:47:07 GMT

"...and I know I can count on my government in case of a natural disaster, unlike in Myanmar."

Wow, really? I'm going to have to assume that you are not talking about the United States here, because I think any number of people who used to call New Orleans home (or still do) probably have a pretty strong argument for you to deal with about that.

Granted, it did not effect everyone when it happened and we were spared a reliable infrastructure and resources because of it, but when the fires swept through my part of town, we were certainly wise to reality. By the time the federal government made an attempt on our behalf, we had already taken care of ourselves and were moving on without them.

No, believe me... you would do well to know that the competence of the U.S. government when dealing with a natural disaster is parallel only to that of the uselessness of Myanmar's.

Forgive me for the tangent. I just can't believe the author of this article has the audacity to make such claims when there still exists a memorial of overturned cars in the front lawns of abandoned homes in New Orleans.

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Ronnie Means Thornton CO — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:48:33 GMT

Why bother sending all the aid and money to countries
who don't care about us and just as soon kill us. I feel sorry for the people. Keep our money and aid state side for our own people and let's start taking care of our selves because no one else will.

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Wes Barron Porter, TX — Mon, 12 May 2008 21:56:02 GMT

the U.S. credit junkie government has found another
global obligation only they can solve with borrowed
money - ten trillion dollars and counting.. you are broke- quit trying to run the world come clean with
the American people and try to pay your debt maybe a country that actually has money will step in

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Chan — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:06:28 GMT

Well said Bill Edwards of Surrey, B.C. Canada

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Fred B. Corona, CA — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:14:27 GMT

What I do not understand is why we, as a nation, are intent on being liked. Being the most powerful nation on earth is NOT a popularity contest. For those who would argue otherwise, please wake up. We have two choices as a nation. 1) continue to attempt to be the arbiter of what is right in the world as best we can, at the cost of billions of dollars and hundreds and perhaps thousands of lives of our young men and women, or 2) Tell the rest of the world to take a flying leap and pull out of everywhere and take care of ourselves. We cannot take path #1 and care what other nations think of us. We cannot take path #2 and care what other nations think of us. IF we take path #2 there will be severe economic repercussions initially and organizations such as the Sierra club will have to get over the idea that drilling in Alaska is to be fought at all costs.

I feel very much for the people in Myanamr and the other places on this planet hit by natural disasters (I have lived through a couple myself). BUT if we don't care for US first, for the people who sweat and strain daily in the US to simply make ends meet, why on earth should we be spending millions to help others?

A couple of directed comments.
First Ann from LA... YES if they are not democracies they are by definition horrific governments. If you have not had the experience of living in a non-democratic nation, you have NO CLUE what you are talking about. Sorry.....
Chris C.... I agree. I am tired of hearing people come to MY country, for which I have fought and bled and lost friends, and have them stand here and criticize the US and tell me what is wrong with MY country when they are a fugitive from their own. They should either shut up and fit in or go home and fix it.

I come down squarely on the side of don't help anyone in the world anymore until we help the people who live here LEGALLY. It is sad that natural disasters happen, but the first time the Junta refused our help, were I in charge, I would simply say, "cool, your call" and walk away FOREVER.

To those of you are who are vehemently cynical about our own government and its flaws, remember what Tony Blair said.
"The only reasonable way to judge a nation is by how many people want to get in as opposed to how many want to leave." We have our flaws, our faults, and a WHOLE BUNCH of useless politicians on both sides of the aisle, but if you haven't lived elsewhere on this planet, don't be too quick to be so terribly negative. For one thing, it is NOT our government's job to take care of you, or me, or anyone else. It is YOUR job to take care of you, and mine, me. The governments job is to provide for the common defense and maintain the infrastructure of our nation. Past that, they are simply meddling in my life and yours, and it is high time people realized that.

Have a good day and sleep well in your warm comfy bed tonight, secure in the knowledge that there are others in this fine nation who are standing between you and the mess that is most of the rest of the world .

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steve Morgan, Schenectady, NY — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:18:09 GMT

I don't know how you can think you can count on your government. How're they doing recovering at ground zero? or in New Orleans?

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Jax Dax Dallas Texas — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:19:14 GMT

Bill, why not get a life and help those in your own country? Why waste time in a third world country doomed to be destroyed by its own leaders?

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pm New Orleans LA — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:21:26 GMT

Wendy said ".. they have already lost over 100,000 lives in a week....I think Myanmar is much worse off and those people deserve help"

No journalists or information coming out of that country. How on earth do we even know those numbers are accurate? Even in New Orleans the numbers of dead were exaggerated until time had passed and an actual count was known. You don't think a "poor" country (run by guerrilla warfare) might be exaggerating these numbers just a little -- especially since they are reluctant to let aid be distributed by anyone except by their own people? Sure, send aid which will promptly be distributed to 1. The rich/powerful. 2. The army. 3. The blackmarkets.

The US has sent aid (and got it across the world faster than it did to one of its own states) and has no way of knowing where it is actually going.

Ann said "...we need to help our own and stop trying to fix everyone else... "

I could not agree more.

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Charles Miller, Fort Worth, TX — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:26:08 GMT

I think the United States is too involved in foreign affairs now and should start taking care of it's own and stay out of other people's business.

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Tom Blackshear, Phoenix, AZ\ — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:31:05 GMT

Would it not be possible to get aid into Burma through Thailand and by-pass the junta?

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Glen in Dallas, TX — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:37:06 GMT

Look at this from the viewpoint of the Myanmar leaders. By allowing only themselves to control aid distribution, they can stockpile enough food to support their army for years to come.

No wonder they don't want any foreigners in the country to distribute or report. It's not as though they have deep technological military secrets to guard, but they do smell a gold mine of free food for the army.

The non-military cyclone victims will not see any of the foreign aid if "distributed" by the military leaders. Either parachute-drop the supplies, or don't bother.

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kym , south australia — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:44:46 GMT

it is sad at the way the military is not allowing Us Aid in the country at an acceptable rate

this shows how much power NATO actually have none . it also shows the iron wills of the burma military in total defiance to the united states of america

americans can not have it all their way , you have caused enough trouble on the global playing field and now every one has had enough

i believe aid will be allowed if the americans are not involved

americans are living in fear due to their own stupidity and over the top policies

i can survive without the United States of america , but the united staes of america needs a clear headed person controlling it

obama is your saviour

obama will bring global healing to your shores

who would want to travel to the united States , the glitter and shine has gone

your economy has gone down the drain

you have caused oil prices to rise globally and which in turn is causing the global community extreme pain

wake up america

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monkeebacon, Eugene, Oregon — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:52:23 GMT

Can we not agree that our standard of living in the U.S. is better than Myanmar? Our country is messed up and our government is somewhat evil (and a little duh), but we are all blessed to be here. If you don't think so, then go to Myanmar and work in the sweatshop that may have made the shirt you have on. That being said, those people need compassion from us because we have taken advantage of them for too long. Why don't we just overthrow Myanmar's government - seems what we like to do, har har.

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Mark Anthony Pottstown, PA — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:58:48 GMT

Bill from B.C. I applaud your efforts,I am glad of your willingness to help, and I am glad you phrased that as you did. Bravo.

For the story about the press and the freedom of press, I think that one thing many people have confused is that Myanmar, is not in the U.S., for that fact, neither is any other country...Freedom of the Press is specific, though not exclusive to the United States. Those arguing freedom of the press should try practicing objective journalism. Just the way the story was written shows that there is no longer any objectivity in the press. The press has long been a puppet for all political parties, here and abroad. Believe nothing that you hear, and only half of what you see...you will be much smarter for it.

One would believe that the entire world were falling apart if one follows the current press printed almost anywhere in any country. Stop believing everything that you read and do some real research on your own, find out the facts and make up your own mind instead of having your opinions fed to you.

Since when is any government responsible for any of us. Take your life into your own hands and quit blaming everyone else for anything and everything that happens to you. As Bill stated, there are tons of excuses for why your life didn't turn out the way you wanted. Tough cookie! Get over it and move on! Life gets better if you keep trying at it. When you give up, you are a victim of your own making.

The victims of these natural disasters are there because of nature. Their situation in Myanmar is deplorable and my sympathies go out to those in China and Myanmar. Whether the ruler is elected, despot, dictator, or other form, the people are in charge of their own lives and should stand as a group to be counted for what they believe. When each person sits and avoids conflict to remain anonymous, unknown, or obscure, people will take that as a gift for their ideals to be heard. In any fashion, when you sit on your hands and do nothing, it is very difficult to blame any other than yourself. Though with this crowd, it appears they will blame everyone but themselves.

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Star Eugene Oregon — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:04:14 GMT

And in this country voting is still corrupt in many locations. People turned away, people lied too about voting being another day, and the sad tale of fixing voting machines. This nation is supposed to know better. I would love to go and help out any nation in a disaster sitution, I am in my 60's and have always helped. How about some 20's, 30's and 40's people that may have to give up some electronic entertainment device. Go and help someone else.

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K Grzegorczyk, Rhineland-Pflaz — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:04:22 GMT

Well put Bill Edwards....I think you should run for U.S president and I am not being sarcastic

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Adrian M., Luttrell Tn/ Jacksonville NC — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:11:38 GMT

To Bill Edwards. You, sir, are a hero among men. I commend you (if in fact you actually are doing what you say. Since I have no way of knowing either way, I'll just shrug and say to myself, "yeah he probably is"). I'm glad I forced myself to stomach the bile that crept upwards while reading some of these posts. I am in the military, and not one of those "seldom compassionate" people.
I do what I can, where I can. That is all anyone should ask of themselves. And who are we to ask it of anyone else? I do agree that we have our own problems on the home turf to worry about, but there are some things that we should at least offer our help in dealing with. If that offer is turned down, then it is turned down. Don't get pushy! That's one of many reasons why we are, as a nation, frowned upon by the other nations of the world. Might still does not make right and just because we are a democracy doesn't make us right either. Still, Mr. Edwards, I commend you for your actions and I wish I could do the same. A lot of you people out there sitting behind your computers reading this may get upset with me and I hope that some of you do. I hope to whatever god you associate with that you all do open your eyes soon. Our world is headed for the drain. Before long we may very well end up wiping out half of the world's population in wars that were brought on by these same egg-heads who think they are always right and that it's their way or the highway. It makes me sick. Most people in this world are concerned for themselves, their family and their own future. Most of them, I'm sure, care nothing for the rest of the world's troubles, if they even know about them. I do tend to see things more from an Isolationist stand point, but I have my reasons to that. We, as a species, are all who we are because of different things. That should be celebrated, not confronted. Different countries act and treat their citizens differently than others. Let them! Eventually one of two things will happen: One, the citizens will grow tired of it and do something about it (*ahem* like we did...) or Two: they'll be dealt with by someone from the outside who's business none of it was to begin with.
Blah, I've gone off point... Mr. Edwards, good on you. I hope you and your wife well and that you return home safely.

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Delmar Fairchild, Barron, WI — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:16:39 GMT

Myanmar is the hub of Asian Drugs coming into this country. We should feed them otherwise the price of drugs in the USA will go up. If they go up, then crime will go up from those looking to pay the higher cost of drugs. We could stop the Junta in Myanmar just by eliminating the need for recreational drugs in America. We are our own worst enemy.

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Bill Ward Corpus Christi Texas — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:18:55 GMT

I suppose the Democrat Governor of Louisiana keeping the Federal govt out of Louisiana after Katrina is about the same as the Burma govt keeping out aid. You cannot blame FEMA for sitting on their hands initially when it was the Democrat Governor that refused to request aid. Without the request, FEMA cannot act.

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Heather M, Vancouver, BC — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:25:46 GMT

To Bill Edwards: Kudos to you for stating a much-ignored point. We spend too much time criticizing and telling others what to do. We don't care, we don't give, we don't even help ourselves.

I do hope people get the point of your message. Bless your heart.

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Ann T, Tacoma, WA — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:29:00 GMT

I like you Bill Edwards and those like you. I give frugally to most all the charities including the Red Cross. I have a daughter with disabilities and I think my best contribution to society is making our own way without welfare assistance or being a burden to our over-taxed working citizens. I would love to be able to go and physically help after disasters right here in America--be it fires in the southwest, tornadoes in mid-America or Hurricanes off the Gulf coast. But, sometimes around the world in less industrialized countries our help is not easily accepted and remote areas hard to reach quickly even with a cooperative government. I admit that I am not always current on how and when and who but often it is the media-our; those journalists that we depend on to bring to our attention what is happening-- be it a Nation we have or do not have a financial interest in. Humanitarian is apolitical. I think we can afford to help. I think our government has given aid (with limits) in the past and usually in cooperation with the Red Cross which is usually welcomed in even the most hostile of nations. Or am I wrong on that count? It's easy to say let us look to taking care of our own first. But, we did and do get assistance from other nations. After Katrina, as with the fires in the west last year, Canada and Mexico sent volunteers. Just as I know that if I have problems there are some neighbors that would come to help and some who would only watch from their front steps. And, there are those stangers that would run in to help because they are the type that needs to do that. We need to be thankful for those who have this desire to help.

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Len Porochnia — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:47:23 GMT

There are times when the lust for power and human compassion must collide and this is one of those times. God is allowing nature to teach us that tyrannys inevitably produce human misery and suffering beyond imagination. Governments whose primary purpose is to keep power instead of to serve the people must one day disappear from the face of the earth or the cycle of hunger, pain, suffering, torture, torment and hell for the majority of the world's population will never end. Dear God, please do for us what we cannot do for ourselves!!!

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SSG Num Bnutz, 10th mtn division (lt) — Mon, 12 May 2008 23:47:57 GMT

Bill E.... I am not worthy, as many readers are. I asked my Commander for leave saved up after reading your letter, I have almost 90 days of vacation saved up, but to him my mission in Iraq is more important. Truth be told I would volunteer any day of the week for missions that would result in a positive outcome.
To help in other countries? I am not sure, and I have not seen the area after Katrina, but I do know even on a meager salary povided by the military I would not find myself 3 years afterwards still looking for handouts. I fear to many americans are scared to get there hands dirty, break there backs working, or just no longer used to good old fashioned problem solving (thinking)

I say again, bravo Mr Edwards.

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Me from Fort Polk, LA — Tue, 13 May 2008 00:02:46 GMT

Our government did try to help N.O. Do you people so easily forget that the wonderful gov of LA was out of town and could not be reached for 2 days while the officials in DC tried to reach them??? The White House cannot just step in and force aide. They can't do it in our country, what makes you think that they should do it in another country. Oh yeah, you are too busy NOT getting on school buses to evacuate and shooting at the National Guard to notice that huh?? It's amazing that no one in Biloxi was murdering and raping other people. No one in Myanmar is stealing big screens and cadillacs. They do need help desperately, there is no doubt of that. But, we cannot continue to step in when we are not wanted and waste our supplies and energy on foreign soil. Help those in this country first, or you get your happy-to-suggest aid butt on a plane and go help with your dollars and energy.

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Charles, St. Pete, FL — Tue, 13 May 2008 00:13:16 GMT

I say we don't send them anything until we take care of ourselves here in America. How many homeless do we have? How many kids are dieing in our streets? America gives and gives and gives....but one thing is never mentioned we have the biggest national debit in the World. Why do we keep putting ourselves in such a bigger hole?

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Karalee, San Antonio, Tx — Tue, 13 May 2008 00:19:01 GMT

So, if I am absolutely incapable of being there physically, I can't have an opinion about how my government should behave? So much for living in a republic. Apparently, according to some, I should be denied the vote because I cannot personally enact legislation. I understand the idea behind "if you don't vote you don't get to complain about your government" and "if you dodge jury duty you can't complain about OJ", but I vote, I pay taxes, I donate, I do what I can. Hah! Can you imagine if several million USA citizens were standing in that same line, waiting to get into Myanmar? You thought the line was long before? Don't be silly.

As far as FEMA goes, people in charge should be put in jail for the gross suffering they have caused New Orleans et al. The suffering goes on and probably will continue to go on until February '09. Does this mean we need to turn our backs on others in dire straits? And where is it written we have to send in an entire Army to do some humanitarian air drops? Hyperbole is not helpful. Nor is self righteousness. It does not have to be an all or nothing situation. We just need to apply some common sense. We may not be able to solve the problem, but I bet we could make it better.

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J.L. Carter. Dagupan City, Philippines — Tue, 13 May 2008 00:29:08 GMT

A big thank you to Bill Edwards. I am happy to finally hear someone tell it like it should be told. I too am in the Philippines doing volunteer work on some orphanages and have applied for a vist to Myanmar to do whatever I can do there. I am a 100% disabled vet and am not rich and wealthy either. But I like to think that one person can make a difference, in whatever way one chooses, and I like to think that more people, not organizations, involved would solve, or at least help with what the world needs more than money, and that is compassion for those less fortunate. I hope to run into Bill in Myanmar....

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L. Thompson, Huntsville, Rexas — Tue, 13 May 2008 00:47:55 GMT

Be safe and many blessings, Mr. and Mrs. Edwards!

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Patrick Lefebvre, Saint John, N.B. — Tue, 13 May 2008 01:01:56 GMT

RE: Bill Edwards from Surrey B.C.

I take my hat off to you my friend from British Columbia for acting on what you know to be morally and ethnically the right thing to do. To have dedicated a portion of your "Vacation time" to go to an "unknown part of the world" (for me it is) to provide assistance is in my own family known as a "Humanitarian". I consider my parents to be Humanitarians as in a few months, they will be heading to Africa to join a friend from a U.N. Peacekeeping base to provide assistance to a place known as Bamako, Mali. No there wasn't a disaster there but people starving, without medication, no clean water to drink, no clothes to wear. Might as well say they have nothing. My Parents are going to be with their friends for 2 months and at the same time, they are shipping goods through the Military to the U.N. base and then delivered to these people in an attempt to provide any and all assistance they can give while they are there. My best to you and your wife Bill, my thoughts will be with you both and the people of Myanmar.

A Canadian Friend on the Atlantic Coast.
Patrick

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A mom — Tue, 13 May 2008 01:26:16 GMT

Bravo Bill Edwards from BC Canada!

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Russ, St. Louis — Tue, 13 May 2008 01:31:00 GMT

The problem with our country is we've gotten too accustomed to thinking it's our responsibility to fix every other country's problems. For God's sake, we don't even feed, clothe, and house every American. If another country asks us for help, that's one thing. However, at a time when this nation's own people are struggling to make ends meet from week to week, we should not be sending our military in a violation of airspace over foreign soil where we're not wanted. Every year I pay thousands of dollars in taxes. Do you know how much good I could do for my family if I'd been allowed to keep it; instead I have to constantly borrow money to pay for essential living items like home repairs and major medical bills because the government steals away the hard-earned money I need to pay for those things myself and then spends it to make war on the region of the world that in turn needs more money to fund the enemy, so it raises the price of gas. Folks, our fate is well deserved with a government like ours in charge!

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bob, bowlegs, ok — Tue, 13 May 2008 01:44:51 GMT

b brooks of portland, or you are a fool. to say that saddam was "one of the better dictators" you lack any knowledge of the atrocities carried out under his rule. rape, murder, indiscriminate maiming - this man was a thug that ruled with an iron fist. you really need to get your news from some reliable sources. think before you speak.

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Rob D. , Western North Carolina USA — Tue, 13 May 2008 01:52:26 GMT

In response to you post Bill Edwards, Surrey, B.C. Canada, those of us who can't do what you do can support those of you who can do what you do, I work extra jobs, I save money, and work a full-time job with overtime yet I would lose my job to take a month off to do this, my employer would not allow this so don't say everyone could. What we can do is support agencencies and individuals who can provide aid to others. That being said and I believe that anyone that can should do so, yet I still look at my country and how lacking we are on our own soil, for health care, diaster relief for our own, feeding and housing the homeless, and the unemployment rise here. Look at the contractors in the Katrina so called rebuilding and at the government approved people that ripped off so many with making millions and doing unsatifactory work, and those who spent their own money just to find out now they will get nothing in aid from their government. I know you are in Canada but I know your leaders aren't perfect either, but here in the USA we need our leaders to take care of our own first and foremost.

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Ken Hamlett, Tampa, Florida — Tue, 13 May 2008 01:59:00 GMT

Sadaam was one of the better dictators in the world. The military as we all know are not compassionate people. Send in an international force to arrest those dictators. Comparing the US military to Julius Caesar and Ghengis Khan. No wonder our next President will be a black, Muslim, Marxist.

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slim — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:01:12 GMT

i havee to agree with Bil Edwwards. although i didnt make a comment on this issue , but was going to. I have to say I am guilty of the what "we" can do and "should do" but i'm doing nothing but typing away at this computer. and still prolly wont do anything to help.

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fed up, usa — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:07:17 GMT

to bill: 'everyone should have savings...' now is your wake up call. forceable welfare is communism. the working take care of the lazy.
U.S. poor are mostly looking for the same handout the world wants from U.S. Strike that - world poor dont even have a chance. U.S. poor know how to work our f'ed up liberal system. I'd rather my tax dollars help myanmar unfortunates than fat, lazy U.S. freeloaders. How come foreigners can come to U.S. and succeed? cause they value hard work and the rewards it brings.
Lazy americans want food stamps, welfare and whatever
other freebies gov't offers. We are creating our own demise.
Why don't U.S. require welare recipients to work public projects??? clean freeways, paint over graffiti, cut weeds/shrubs that pose fire threat?
stupid liberals answer 'that would be mean = requiring lazies sitting at home to work for their handout'

i'm sick of our rewards for welfare moms pumping out more babies to get bigger welfare checks.
give my tax dollars to help myanmar instead

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fed up, usa — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:11:20 GMT

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JP, Hertford, NC — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:19:00 GMT

Great job expressing yourself Bill. I absolutely agree and really admire people like you who go out and take action vs sitting on their butts complaining. Thank you for your contribution to the lives of the people you help. I am not far behind you.

Be safe and God Bless.

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Concerned — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:31:04 GMT

Mr. Edwards, you make a fine point. If everyone relied on their governments to help out other people, (which I suppose many do,) perhaps no humanitarian crisis would ever be completely solved (which I suppose many aren't).
However, it is not fair to expect people to have the same flexibility as you do. You acknowledged that you are lucky in that your children are "grown and gone"; something I'm certain many families cannot claim. And not everyone has paid vacation time available.
But, with that all said, I still admire your actions, and your enthusiasm and motivation for helping others. For all those in a similar position, I urge you to heed his words and help in any possible way you, personally, can. And, if you cannot physically or monetarily be of help, write a letter to Bush or a local Congressman asking them to send more aid, talk to Myanmar's leaders, force them to accept international supplies.

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D. Evans — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:37:09 GMT

That's what happens when a leftist xenophobic government runs a country. Communist military dictatorships work SOOOO well don't they?

By the way, The federal government was ready to go into NOLA but had to wait TWO DAYS for the LOCAL government to decide to request assistance. Katrina was a disaster due to POLITICS at the local and state level.

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mike johnson,oldsmar,fl — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:38:47 GMT

my hats off to you bill and though i cant make the trip with you my thoughts and prayers will go with you. dont have much but do you know of any outfit thats takeing funds to help out. know that a few dollars goes a long way over that area of the world. just a couple of more words be carefull and be safe.

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Kansas City, MO — Tue, 13 May 2008 02:52:17 GMT

Bill. I am inspired by your bravery. Good luck to you and your wife. I hope the visas come through soon.

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Lenny Longo, Effort, PA — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:13:11 GMT

Bush did it all. He created the storm, caused the earthquake and caused the waters to rise and kill all the people. Ask any Democrat they'll tell you!

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Verbal Harpoon Los Angeles,Ca — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:17:04 GMT

I certainly hope not one item of relief makes it to the earthquake victims in China. Why should there any aid at all? China thinks of itself as a great country so let them take care of their own. China did nothing to help after the 9/11 attacks,yet they think they're owed help? If China wants to look for help they need to check the mirror,and see what they get. Shortages? Check the politicans pockets. They have no one to blame for a crisis but themselves. They already have most of the USA's money anyway,they don't need any more. BUT,I will say this. They can have all the help they need..for a price. Erase pollution,implement freedom,disband the troops,give people their land back,re-unite families, and others to be named later.
If they want help bad enough they will comply.

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Tristene, Anchorage, Alaska — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:25:20 GMT

I am not cruel nor heartless but we have our own issues to deal with. We are heading quickly into a depression. We have our own hurting, starving citizens. People who can't afford to go to the doctor and end up dying or living sickly lives, children starving and doing poorly in schools because their family has to chose between rent and food, gas or cloths. Yes our counry is rich but not every one who lives here is. Take care of our own limping country first...then and only them look elsewhere to help. Clean our own home first before we look at our neibours yard.

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Mark, Boston, MA — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:27:32 GMT

To the moral relativists who would want to stretch a comparison of Myanmar to the US, the Cyclone to Katrina, and the responses of the respective governments to the respective natural disasters:

First off, you have GOT to be kidding me! No? I guess I shouldn't be surprised (lemme guess, you pull nothing but 'D' when in the voting booth). Living in Boston, I'm used to this perverse method of thinking.

Second, please accept my invitation to move to Myanmar and experience the relative, comparitive differences. I'd give you less than a month before you come crying home to your mean 'ol Uncle Sam.

You should be embarassed for even thinking of these events and governments in the same vein.. with at least one poster claiming "it's the same thing". You mind be mentally deficient to arrive at such a conclusion, based on the vast amount of evidence to the contrary. But, hey.. it's all relative in your world made up of your many shades of gray, eh?

Enjoy your warped sense of reality. Don't spoil it by actually checking your facts or performing critical analysis. It's much easier, your way.

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leo, oak brook.illinois — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:28:40 GMT

Main stream journalism is a farse in America. Its bought and paid for the special interests that are running this country.You and I will only learn about the kind of news they want us to hear and read. We have no right critisizing other countries for clamping down.Where's the beef on issues that America needs to talk about, or are you guys leaving that part to rush diareah of the mouth limbaugh. Nonsensical bullshit, over and over again.With all due respect: the only reason this article is being aired, is for the critisisim.Lets look at China's earthquake? At the end of the day there might be more devastation there then Myanmar. Lets see how negative this tragedy will be played out by the media. it wont

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Tommy, Cedar Rapids, IA — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:35:39 GMT

>>and my vote is a force that cannot be changed, unlike Zimbabwe; I can say what I like, unlike in Tibet; and I know I can count on my government in case of a natural disaster, unlike in Myanmar.<<

Ever heard of a hanging chad?

How about the guy here in Iowa who asked McCain about what he called his wife and got interrogated by the SS like he was a terrorist?

Ever hear of Katrina?

Just what fantasy world are you living in, Sir?

Yeah, we have it way better here than it is anywhere else and that's no joke. But that doesn't give you the right to insult our intelligence. You can stop pandering to the neo-con ideology now. It's dead. It killed itself through negligence and arrogance. The page is turning. Make yourself useful.

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Armelle Hofer — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:56:15 GMT

The junta has been there many years oppressing its people. Aung Sun Kyi has been under house arrest for what, a decade? (She's the woman who inspired Walk On by U2.) This is major humanitarian disaster: 100,000 dead? (More?)

OK, now let's connect some dots here. And the guy who was going to put together McCain's Summer Republican convention is Mr. Goodyear who happened to work for the military junta for a little while back in what, 2002? In terms of American politics, it's starting to show who the villains are.

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cathy — Tue, 13 May 2008 04:26:50 GMT

i cannot agree more with those posters who said "hello?? wake up people...remember Katrina? remember 911? who sent aid to us??" i fully understand that the world is a huge spider web..and what happens in other countries affects the world all the way around, but i am thinking we better take care of the fly buzzing in our part of the spider web...we better make sure our own doorstep is clean...before we invade another country with our idea of salvation (which seems to so many times have a hidden agenda)..i am not saying not to help others...but there is plenty to do HERE in our own country. Isolationist you say?? not at all...but the knee jerk reaction to run out into traffic is stupid..and this will sound cold...maybe this is just nature's way of "population control" it might happen here in the midwest where reside...when the New Madrid fault blow...i may be one of the first to die...so be it..i work in an emergency department, and then true triage will happen (if the place is still standing) ..we wont be spending resources on problems that cannot be solved but on the true emergency...nor on the frivolous abuses of the BOTH the privileged insured and the public aid leeches that occupy most of our time. when millions of dollars are spent on keeping alive half dead elderly yet scores of children go without basic immunizations...oh, this would just be another thread..i digress.....take care of your own!

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K.G. Empey — Tue, 13 May 2008 04:44:38 GMT

Boy oh Boy, this is the first time I have written or even read coments on the disaster in Myanmar. As some have said, or maybe not, Charity begins at Home!!!! Plenty needs to be taken care of Right here in the good old USA. The world as we knew it is falling on its face, and America is fast becoming a third world country, other nations have no respect for us, but we are the first ones they expect to help out in times of crises, and boy, do we run to help!!! We can not and should not try to save the world. Keep the help at home, where there are many places, and people who could use the billions being sent out of country!!!

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Old Time Citizen — Tue, 13 May 2008 04:48:45 GMT

I am so tired of hearing about Politics both National and International. What about doing just plain old fair thing or right thing? Our own govenment doesn't care about what is fair or right, all they care about is how they can line their own pockets or passing the buck on blaming someone else. They only care about getting rich off the lobbiests that represent everything from Kleenex to Oil and promote every way possible to take away every freedom they possibly can. The definition of Politic's is: Poli is the Greek word for 'Many' and a Tic is a 'Blood Sucking Creature'. If our 'leader's' could line their own pockets by sending Aid to anyone, I guarantee nothing in the world would stop them from delivering. We need to wise up and get out government back to the original Constitution and Bill of Rights.

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T Stauffer, Atlanta Georgia — Tue, 13 May 2008 05:05:12 GMT

I think we should do the right thing and go in to help. Not just drop ship, but go in and give medical aid as well. The UN should be on top of this. This is a humanitarian issue, not an issue of democracy. But none of it matters anyway, by the time anyone gets through all the red tape and actually gets down to doing something about it, it will be too late.

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valerie wheeler ottawa ontario — Tue, 13 May 2008 05:39:02 GMT

very good message Bill!!
I live in Ottawa Ontario where our troops are in afganistan, but we go all over the world where help is needed, thank god , as far as i can remember we have not had that kind of natraul disature here, but I am sure it will come, probably B.C, the big one (earthquake) they keep telling us, but I have to agree with most people here, these people are going to die if no one goes out there and helps, why coundn't a few countries get together and help! it would take a few planes, force our way in if we have to (We did it in affganistan and Irag) why can't we do it for people who are dieing, not just for politcal gain!, ohh this makes my blood boil!
do it just because we are human and so are they, human and under unimagiginal pain and suffering, with no one comming to thier aid, that is pretty sad.

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Karen Kenosha, WI — Tue, 13 May 2008 05:40:59 GMT

To: bhoover altoona,pa and everyone else who asks:
how many people do you have to kill to be a good dictator??? I'm not sure. Ask the bush in the white house. He-he. Sad, but oh, so true!

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Karen Kenosha, WI — Tue, 13 May 2008 05:44:03 GMT

Bill Edwards of Surrey, B.C. Canada - God Bless You!!! You've got the right idea. Wish more people got up and did something like you're doing. Keep up the good work.

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DeAnne Davis, Kuwait — Tue, 13 May 2008 06:08:41 GMT

You know, living in the Middle East for the past four years, I have heard more anti-American statements from Canadians and English, than from the Kuwaiti, Iraqi, and Iranian friends and strangers who I meet daily. America always seems to be the one expected to solve others problems but hated for their efforts. It's fine when we play superhero and, in fact, are now villified if we don't jump every time heh batsignal is lit. But, even then, we are spit upon. Ironically by people I would not expect, as well as the ones I would.
We need to take more care of our own backyard. Focus on starving Americans in the destitute sections of the US. We have our own mouths to feed and medicate. We should help others, but we should also start at home.

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Andrew Butterfield — Tue, 13 May 2008 06:10:14 GMT

Bill, I understand your frustration and commend your efforts. I am one that is sitting comfortably at home this evening after putting my kids to bed and finishing some work before I go myself. I hope that you and others get to Burma before it's too late. Unfortunately the situation will have to get worse (amazing to think that it could) before the UN and others take the necessary action to help fellow man by doing what's right regardless of borders and insane obstacles.

Donald and others are right. Those governments that have the resources should call the bluff of these selfish twisted individuals who are jeopardizing lives of even more survivors. It is the smart approach with high reward and relatively small risk. The kind of decision that LEADERS make. Let's lead by example and help the Burmese get back on their feet as best they can.

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Jennifer, New Orleans, LA — Tue, 13 May 2008 06:19:04 GMT

well, good for Bill that he has the luxury to pack up and fly over there, get a weeks extra paid vacation. i, on the other hand, am american, and truly cant afford to just hop a plane because living paycheck to paycheck just doesnt leave you with the option. so, go ahead and pat yourself on the back, Bill...and make us that cant just up and go feel a little less. truly an inspiration, you are. oh, and before you point out that im still in my comfortable chair on my "can" telling others what to do...im not. just telling only you to think about what you are saying before you assume that you are on the moral high ground. you are no better than anyone else writing on this message board. and, just because i dont have a savings or a small business doesnt mean that i am not entitled to be disgusted and want to help, even if it is just to donate what i can spare. and before you school me on disasters...please note where im from...im WELL versed in what devastation looks like.

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Khanyo Kandawire, Gauteng, South Africa — Tue, 13 May 2008 07:26:52 GMT

Iam South African and I'm sick and tired of Zimbabwen's flocking into our country. It's not that we don't want to help, but they are ruining OUR country and our homes. People from Zimbabwe are just like their leader-they have no compassion. They are killing our people and taking our jobs, not to mention incresing the crime. Last noght there was an attack on Zimbabwen imigrants by South African citizens because really we have had ENOUGH of them. I don't support violence...........I just want them GONE. ALL these illegal imigrants from Zimbabwe PLEASE LEAVE SOUTH AFRICA ALONE...GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!!!
We have enough problems of our own as a country without adding the STRESS of Zim.

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Scott, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii — Tue, 13 May 2008 07:34:07 GMT

Mr Bill Edwards, who are you to judge? You make a lot of ASSumptions. "We" implies to us that have free speach and live in the USA and wish to make suggestions and try to come up with ideas on how to help and resolve the situation. Many many people help in many different ways and don't feel it necessary to tell everyone how great they are for helping. Why do you feel it necessary to tell us all about your "sacrifices". Ever tried a little humility? Because someone does not list all of their "good deeds" does not mean that they have not contributed. We all cannot go to Burma and there are ways to help here. You have no business lecturing any of us on how we should have two jobs and a savings account etc. It is great that you are doing the things you do but do not tell the rest of us how we should be doing it. Your ideas are socialist, offensive and arrogant. You say don't criticize but your letter is the most critical of those I have read. I also do not know of any "Bible thumpers" that would make you listen to the word of God before helping. You sound like a very bitter person. For someone so full of love and care for others you show none of that in your speach here, only hate and anger because we don't do as you do. Your letter could have been filled with love and guidance as you listed your ways to help. Instead it was all criticism and anger. You sure inspired me, Please!

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mary smith, sylvania ohio — Tue, 13 May 2008 07:41:29 GMT

I dont blame them for not letting the usa in. We have become internationakl bullies and starting wars where ever we chose. Besides we have a tremendous debt and we need to remember charity begins at home. Our own people are suffering without jobs and healthcare. Right or wrong, each country should have the right to say no to foreign aide. Just because we can overwhelm another country with our military might and just enter their country doesnt mean we should.

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Tony R., Seattle, Washington — Tue, 13 May 2008 07:53:52 GMT

Bill Edwards of Surrey, B.C., Canada I must say this:

Hoo-aah.

I was in Bosnia back in '94. Chechnya in '95 during their first war with Russia and Sudan later that year. I've seen people butchered and slaughtered. Entire villages massacred. It never fails to amuse me how Billy Joe Bob or Mary Sue Jane can sit on their couch, order a pizza, pop a beer, smoke a cigarette and watch re-runs of Seinfeld and claim they "understand" and "feel" for the poor peasant being raped and starved six ways to Sunday half way across the world. When I was a freelance soldier I witnessed atrocities on a scale most could never comprehend. For most of these hypocrites out here their worst nightmares I would laugh at and call sweet dreams. If war is h.e.l.l., then I was born the devil. I give kudos to Bill from B.C. Canada. I couldn't do it anymore. I said to heck with the world a long time ago. Same for the human race. The sooner this toilet bowl of a world flushes that big turd called humanity down the drain the better. When it happens, when the end comes, I'll be sitting there howling with laughter. Mad? Probably. Insane? Could be. Going out in a blaze of Glory? We'll wait and see. Won't we?

Most definitely.

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chaos39, Buffalo NY — Tue, 13 May 2008 08:27:29 GMT

Bravo! to our cousin from across 'the world's longest undefended border', for an extraordinary demonstration in the ongoing tale of, 'them that can, does; them as cain't, supervises'.
Less talk and more doing would do 99% of us a world of moral and educational good. Not to mention what it would do for the afflicted and the victims of nature around the world.
Sadly, talk is what we're mainly about anymore...

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Pookie, Washington, DC — Tue, 13 May 2008 09:27:43 GMT

<applauds> Bill Edwards, in Canada, that is the best comment I've seen, and the best suggestion. The least a person can do is send some financial help, (rent a couple less movies or go out for a few less burgers) and the most they can do is exactly what you're doing. (got some vacation time and/or sick time just sitting around waiting for a good time to use them? It's a good time!)I applaud you for your generosity, your sense of charity, and willingness to stand up and be counted.

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Shelley, Asher, OK — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:00:57 GMT

I concur w/ David, Baltimore, not only for the junta in Myanmar, but also for Mugabe in Zimbabwe. Being leader(s) of a nation is like being a parent, abuse or neglect your children to their detriment, have them taken away and be punished severely...

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John Lennon, Alexandria, Ky. — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:30:03 GMT

China's been an oppressive nation for years crushing anyone who doesn't agree with the state. We should not even be at the olympics and the IOC is a bunch of losers for choosing this nation.

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David Middleburg, FL — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:45:51 GMT

To Bill Edwards of surrey B.C you live in canada for christs sake! what else do you have to do? Hell you must be bored, I would have went to.

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keith a dewey — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:58:30 GMT

Along with the three countries baby bush is not mentioned. How come?

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Beck — Tue, 13 May 2008 11:11:52 GMT

"In a world where dozens, if not hundreds of terrorist and military leaders continue to oppress and restrict citizens even the simplest basic needs I can’t help to wonder why President Bush picked out Saddam of Iraq to attack knowing he really was one of the better dictators. Does anyone know what Bush really was/is after?"

One of the better dictators? Restricting freedom of speech is one thing, Saddam was on a whole other plane well beyond these other dictators you're referring to. Highest known genocide rate in the world, I'd say that puts him at the very top of the list. Really, your comment sounds like you're just trying to throw cheap propaganda around, the what was he after comment obviously was meant to start comments about oil or his father, not actually a real question.

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disgusted — Tue, 13 May 2008 11:58:58 GMT

Let's just send all the aid that people want to give, to the people of China - at least their government is moving rapidly to respond to their people in need. We've offered help in Myanmar, it's been refused. How often to we need to extend our hands with aid and have them slapped away?

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Me, MPLS — Tue, 13 May 2008 12:32:08 GMT

To those that think that other countries didn't help after Katrina or 9/11. Take note. England/ Britain sent help, money. Indonisia sent money to aid agencies. After 9/11 Ireland shut down completly in rememberance of the lives that were lost then their National Soccer team donated their earnings for a match in NY to go to victims of 9/11. There other countries that stepped in and helped when Katrina hit. They just were not as publicized as much.
Their government in Burma doesn't want help. So, let them do it their way. If they kill their people what can we do? Nothing. That is as a country we can do nothing. It is up to the UN to step in and get those people taken care of. They need to demand and then maybe force them to help their people. I would have no problem having our military do what they have to do to get aid and help to those people Remember they are people and think if you were in their situation.
Send in what we can however it needs to be done. The time has come for the UN to finally do what the charter was meant to do. Protect people.