[BigSkyFreeper]

Instead, I would like to see the various disparate parts of the country develop more responsible attitudes based on the folks in those areas (yeah, I'm a believer in states' rights and old-style federalism). Certainly religion has a strong place there, but it shouldn't be a national religion.

Yeah, I agree. But I will add that this country needs to get back to the roots of the Founding Father's. America has strayed too far off course for far too long as far as morals and values go.

I consider myself a devout Christian, but I do realize there is going to be a natural give-and-take.

[dayglored]

> ... I will add that this country needs to get back to the roots of the Founding Father's. America has strayed too far off course for far too long as far as morals and values go.

I agree. The writings of the Founders are full of good guidance, and I wish it were more widely known and taught. Our present culture has little regard for its roots.

> I consider myself a devout Christian, but I do realize there is going to be a natural give-and-take.

The Christian and Deist beliefs of the Founders would serve well as examples today. There are also a lot of non-Christians who have good moral grounding and can provide sustenance to the recovery of our national moral situation.

It's more difficult without a state-imposed or state-sponsored religion, but it's better if done with regard for the huge range of legitimate beliefs in America.

IMO the toughest task is respecting legitimate differences, without also allowing the crackpots and weirdos to run the show by default, which is some of how we got to where we are now.