Not a very original choice but definitely C S Lewis for me. And, yes, I've read the Screwtape letters. Very thought-provoking.

i thought this was very poignant - thank you for sharing.

I think if we're dutiful good citizens, we have nothing to fear anyway.

Well, I've learnt (despite my past) to respect those in authority over me. I don't believe the government is overly intrusive at present, and there are things happening that, if not monitored, could threaten everyone.

You don't have to "sir" me. I'm just Jon-Marc or Jonathan, whichever you prefer. I like one as well as the other. My military time was in the late 60's and early 70's

Oh, Ok! 

I think my girl wants to come on here to vote!

Thanks all for your support, and for some wise words, which have been appreciiated. It's great to find understanding, and I know that, in the military, my attitudes have changed as vastly as my appearance.

This is topical issue where I've been  - and I think in society generally. I was interested in some Christian input!

With the increasing amount of cameras, databases and information held on citizens, some people feel threatened.
The Patriot Act, for example, gave the State new powers to curtail the actions of terrorists.

I feel, as a Christian conservative, that such power is needed, and only terrorists and criminals are crying fascist.

I wonder if you agree? We can't just let society run riot or allow, unimpeded, the freedom of terorists to plan atrocities.

Yet I know that many of my friends, military and civillian, feel threatened.

I'm glad on this site to find people of a similar mind.

This is what Sarah Palin stood for

Yes, an interesting message. Not popular with everyone!

Two years have definitely changed the way you look, but without knowing you personally we have no way of knowing what military service did for you

I think it has helped me become more focused and far more disciplined - both enormously important things. It is the best thing I ever did. One of the greatest things, however, is that it has greatly helped me on the road to overcoming my rebellious and wild nature. The way I look now is part of that!

I'm so glad the life helped you too, sir.

I find that, particularly in my career, I'm more influenced by Republican politics, and they seem more in tune with my religious beliefs too. Of course we shouldn't accept it wholesale, but this is how I feel.

Not for reasons of vanity

Oh - haha. I meant to say, vanity was the last reason for which I joined. There's little vain about the way I look now!

You make pacifism sound like a bad thing. I'd only fight if someone was being attacked

Yes, and I think there comes the rub. Not everyone can agree on when we are in a position of being attacked. I'm personally happy to accept the guidance of those in authority over me, but I understand that not everyone feels like that.

Thank you all.

I think this is a very enlightened view, and one which the majority of my friends support.

But, again, approval from people is not what I'm seeking.

The enormous physical change is, I hope, symbolic. It's part of letting go of a previously rebellious nature, and this life has certainly helped me to do that!

Please feel free to vote, anyway - for Deb.

I'm glad to have found understanding, and for recognition that there are good fights!

Yes, I understand, sir. There are far more important things, and the poll is only for fun and for my girl Deb's curiosity.

What is important is the fact that many people feel led into this life - and that it is the only way for them.

It's a contentious subject, as many Christians feel that military service is not compatible.