I like the new and improved Tanvat.

I just want to know the answer to one question?..

How many peaceful changes from totalitarianism to democracy can you recount?
Change in power structures almost never come peacefully, and when it is as radical as totalitarianism to representative government I don?t think it EVER has. Democracy is unique almost exclusively because those who gain the power at the point of a sword have to be mature and intelligent enough to give up that power peacefully when it is time. George Washington was the father of our country, and one of our greatest citizens because he refused a crown, and stepped down from power after winning it at the point of a bayonet. The Revolution in France followed the same ideals and track with the exception that those who fought for the power then refused to relinquish it, and that led to nothing less than another king (emperor).

Peaceful change is nearly impossible when the few hold all the power, because history has shown that they will do anything, anything, to retain it.

In this country we believe that our rights are not granted by a king, or by a government, but are a covenant with God, and not man?s to take away. If man tries to take them away it is our solemn duty as human beings to violently rebel, and throw off the yoke of tyranny, even if it claims to be benevolent.

It?s sort of hard to eliminate religion in a country that was founded on a religious ideal, and whose values and laws all stem from that religion. A better idea than eschewing it is to study it and understand it. If you did I am quite sure that you would at least stop fearing it, if not actually agree with many of its tenants.