I am very thankful for everyone who has rallied around our flag, the Kossack flag. (It's hard for me not to recall that Cossacks were a fierce bunch, even if they fought for the Tsar.)
Now it is very important not to be self-righteous about views many of us hold, one way or the other. We need to be calmly supportive of our group. We need steadfastly to stand our ground.
Most Kossacks support the Kerry campaign to some degree. Nonetheless, it is very important not to become drones or clones. Sen Kerry may not know it, but his best chances lie with those who have their own thoughts and keep their own counsel - EVEN THOSE WHO DO NOT COMPLETELY AGREE WITH HIM.
What Sen Kerry needs to consider is what this recent contretemps implies about his handling of the nasty problems that often confront Presidents. Is retreat into social conformity the best course? How are dissenting views handled?
Meanwhile, I feel we should just go about our business ...
Kos, congratulations on making a friend in OHIO, a very important State this time around.