Jim Warman

Not knowing where "here" is (talk about 'asshat'), I feel at a disadvantage.

If "here" is in the heart of deepest, darkest Calgary or Edmonton, perhaps
you need to look around this province. You'll find that this whole thing is
riding on the backs of us "small town hicks". We're the people that are part
and parcel of the industry that affords this province it's bragging
rights.... We brave the elements and the possibility of physical harm so
that Ralphie can deliver budgets with no deficit and pay off the provinces
debt. Without "small town hicks" both Edmonton and Calgary would wither and
die.

If "here" is Canada....I can assure you I was not born of this country but I
was born because of this country. I am the son of a War Bride. My Father
went to war against the Axis under the Red Ensign.... a flag that was stolen
from him by the Liberal government in the 60s. Born in England, I am likely
more pro-Canada than you could ever hope to pretend.

I speak my mind and offer opinion on things that have relevance.... OTOH,
you and your ilk offer nothing.... even this post to which I reply. This had
the opportunity for you to say something meaningful. Instead, you make light
of the resentment that has a better chance of tearing this country in half
than anything the Bloc Quebequois could dream up. Quebec will forever
posture to Ottawa but will never leave (all one needs to do is look at the
balance of transfer payments to realize this). The West has both the money
and the where-with-all to split this country asunder.... all we need is
"the son of NEP". I will forgive you if you are too young to remember this.

Perhaps if you were to become a contributing member of society..... if you
are going to speak up, speak up about those things that matter. Rather than
spend your time telling people to shut up.... rather than telling people
they are "bad".... offer an opinion on these subjects. If you say an idea
sucks without offering an alternative, you are saying nothing.... I am not
asking you to agree with me.... I'm not telling you to agree with me.... I'm
saying you should offer an opinion. This should be an opinion you have -
not one you were told to have by the media or peer pressure. You never know,
perhaps your observations might even sway my opinion.

Until that day, it is you that will remain being the "asshat"..... I am sure
I have made it clear where I stand.... You live in the comfort of knowing
that nobody knows where you stand (if indeed you have the balls to have a
stance)... And you imagine that this gives you the power to snipe at any and
everyone.