I was sitting comfortably on my living room couch Sunday night watching the evening news; a typically depressing view of what is happening in the world. This Sunday night was different with the United States and a few loyal friends poised to oust Saddam Hussein. This time I know people there. In fact, we likely all know people there: sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, moms and dads, ready to do what their country asks.

I watched the news with Britain and Spain’s leaders standing alongside President Bush telling the world the time to talk was up, the time to act was upon us and diplomacy would likely take a back seat to our John Wayne approach to terrorist threats.

Thinking about the people I know who are readying themselves to fight, I also thought about the protests in downtown North Bend. Those standing defiant about a war with Iraq and those who proudly support our troops. Are these two sides really in opposition to each other? I don’t think so. I think it’s more that some wish there was a diplomatic channel that can be taken so as to prevent war. The other group is simply supporting our troops if and when the time comes to use force.

I’m sure that families across the Valley have had to explain to their children what is happening. It becomes a bit more real when a cousin or relative is fighting our fight. The questions tend to be a bit more personalized with a hint of concern. It’s important that my kids understand what I know and feel free to ask questions about what could happen on the sands of the Persian Gulf.

What is even more interesting is the dichotomy of other concerns over the weekend. Worries about whether to use 2-by-8-foot ceiling joists or 2-by-10-foot ceiling joists on a deck project pale in importance to what this week may bring. I’m sure you all are watching the television, surfing the Internet, trying to understand what is happening, asking questions, answering questions and generally forming your opinion about the path our president has taken.

But whether you support military action or condemn it, let’s make one thing clear to those serving from our little corner of the world: We support you in whatever you do and are counting on you to come home safely. We are extremely proud of you and know you will do the things you are asked to do with pride and conviction.

To Sgt. Dan Forsythe, Maj. Col. Jay Rodne, Brandon Gilmore, Melissa Grinton and all those from the Valley, we are holding the fort down here. If so ordered, go kick some fanny and come home safely. We are thinking about you!