'LET MY PEOPLE GO'

The story of Moses teaches that YOU CAN NOT EVEN GOVERN SLAVES WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF THE GOVERNED.

Too many new democracies incorrectly believe that the majority rules, therefore the majority can do anything it wants. Then these misguided leaders are surprised when there are protests in the streets.

DEMOCRACY IS A DANCE BETWEEN THE MAJORITY AND THE LOYAL OPPOSITIONS. It is not possible to peacefully govern a country without treating all citizens with equal respect. (Often this respect is taught in terms of civil rights, but it really means that ALL citizens should get a fair hearing and be treated equally.)

Putin seems to treat the citizens of the Ukraine and Syria as chess pawns. I believe these 'pawns' have history on their side. People try to say that the US also treats people badly. However, 90% of US poor have hot water, electricity, and flush toilets.

But we should at least assuage Putin's real fear that Russia will lose its cold water ports.

THIS IS NOT A GAME OF CHESS, THESE ARE VERY REAL DEMANDS TO BE TREATED EQUALLY.

RUSSIA NEEDS TO LEARN THE LESSONS OF FREEDOM THAT MOSES TAUGHT. And those demanding freedom need to remember the years of wandering in the desert that came with freedom.