Ground Zero Memorial
Over the weekend, the President ruffled a few feathers and triggered a controversy, when he weighed in on the subject of Muslims erecting a Mosque in the shadow of the Ground Zero memorial under construction in mid-Manhattan..
With a bit of a strain (tension?) in his voice, the President underscored in no uncertain terms, that Muslims have the right to build a mosque where they "choose" pursuant to the U.S. Constitution.
"Muslims have the same right to freedom of religion as everyone else in America," he declared in a White House speech on Friday evening.
Duh!
Most folks - critics and supporters alike - were already keenly aware of that fact.
And, are in accord with the acceptable argument.
Then, why are opponents (a smattering of Democrats, too) in a huff over the issue, bright and early this August morning?
For starters, a niggling question remains.
Does Obama honestly believe (in his own heart of hearts) that erecting a Mosque - "this-close" - to "Ground Zero" (where thousands died a horrible death at the hands of foreign terrorists) - is of little little or no consequence?
If so, then the President needs to re-think the situation.
After all, the two structures generating so much heated dialogue, are not just buildings being constructed out of mere mortar, steel, and stone.
In this instant case, the two architectural beauties envisioned by their creators, represent free-standing symbols intended to profoundly resonate (and speak volumes) in their own unique way about their own respective cultures.
In view of the events unfolding in recent days, one has to wonder, will the Mosque (and what the structure represents) ever be able to overcome its potential to hurt?
Many believe that a Mosque built according to the plan that is underway - at the current location - amounts to nothing short of a slap in the face to the 9/11 victims and their loved ones - and ultimately - is indicative of poor judgment and "bad taste".
What is the subliminal message being transmitted here?
The World Trade Center - a symbol of America - was destroyed.
And, in its place, a Muslim House of Worship is being erected.
Mr. President, what are your thoughts on THAT sentiment?
Obama's willingness to side-step the obvious (i.e., lousy idea) - coupled with his audacity to speak up now (in the manner he did) for political reasons and with an eye on the upcoming elections - has turned the issue into a National one.
In fact, judging by the reactions of pundits and politicians over the past forty-eight hours, Obama's impromptu statements have propelled him full-throttle into a debate that Democrats have been trying to avoid for weeks.
Now, a handful of his cronies (and supporters) feel they've been put on the spot.
With three months to go before the mid-term elections, they were decidedly nervous about the prospect of trying to hold the house, because of Obama's drop in popularity at the polls and approval rating.
Also, until the Friday night fiasco busted the political terrain wide open, the White House expressed its desire to stay out of local decision-making (Mosque controversy, for example).
What happened?
Well, 'ya know what they say.
"Loose lips sink ships."
In a nutshell, Obama couldn't keep his yap closed on the issue, for some inexplicable reason.
Yes, Muslims have the right to build where they wish - but shouldn't the land developers acquiesce under the circumstances - to show respect (something they so vigorously seek for themselves daily) for loved ones forced to grapple with the Mosque dilemma - now that Obama hurled it into the controversial light over the weekend?
One also has to wonder - in view of the outrage - why Muslims have refused to reconsider?
Constitution aside, shouldn't the Muslims (a religious entity) entertain the idea of a relocation, if only to appease the "dead" and the loved ones who mourn them?
God willing!
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