Since I'm running out of space with the long quotes, let me just state my disagreements summarily and respectfully.

Bush Derangement Syndrome is not something that "used to" exist. It is alive and well -- and apparently growing. While Peggy says that no one thinks anymore that those afflicted with the syndrome are unhinged. I do, as do many others, and I deeply lament that Peggy is giving cover to the vicious, indefensible assaults against Bush from the left since 2000.

Likewise, I deeply lament that she cites approvingly, the e-mailer for the perception that Bush doesn't tell the truth. Of all the unconscionable lies the left has disseminated, this one is among the worst, and I can't believe Peggy is lending her name to it even if by implication. If some conservatives have gritted their teeth, it hasn't been over the Iraq war (except for the faint of heart), but mostly immigration and spending. And it's certainly not that they have bought into the Goebbelsesque propaganda that "Bush lied, people died."

As for Bush's unjustified "high spirits" given his "lack of success" and his "jarring" refusal to wear his suffering on his sleeve, I reject that he's lacked success on Iraq, unless we gauge success purely by public approval in the short term. Also, isn't it extraordinarily presumptuous for us to assume Bush is not feeling the pain and anguish from the loss of American lives occasioned by his exceedingly difficult decisions?

As for Bush's self-proclaimed idealism, I believe he is merely referring to his optimism concerning the human yearning for freedom. And he is defending his actions as principled, not boastfully or as an indictment of his opponents -- but in response to attacks that he's ignoring the polls.

Contrary to Peggy's contention, I believe that as compared to the fair-weather public, President Bush is demonstrating commendable realism on the war and exceptional courage to pursue the long-term best interests of this nation, despite the bipartisan abuse he continues to endure.

That the United States has, during these times, an unflappable leader with a healthy blend of idealism, realism, principle and character is a cause not for gritting our teeth, but thanksgiving.