Writing in the New York Times on July 17, the newspaper's well-known columnist David Brooks reported on a White House press conference he attended on July 13. "[Pres.] Bush was assertive and good-humored," Brooks noted.
"It's more of a theological perspective," claimed the president for the basis of his belief in victory in Iraq. "I do believe there is an Almighty, and I believe a gift of that Almighty to all is freedom. And I will tell you that is a principle that no one can convince me that doesn't exist."
These sentiments have been expressed before by the president. However, I was taken aback by Brooks' admiration in the article for Bush's dogged confidence. It all reminded me poignantly of another place and another time . . .