Not so long ago, the Middle East was an enlightened vanguard of global civilization, preserving classic literature and scientific works that Europeans used for fire kindling or toilet paper. My Celtic ancestors were barely walking upright. Yet, while Brits were none too fond of bathing (and much too fond of sheep), they could muster the sophistication to put on a relatively-clean metal shirt for a crusade on behalf of God and tribe. I believe such crusades are misguided. Spirituality should be promoted with good deeds and persuasion not coercion, though an attractive maiden sitting across the church, mosque, or temple can cause a guy to have a hallelujah moment worthy of an Oprah interview.
