HATS OFF TO JOHN MELLENCAMP

There are protesters and then there are reasoned objectors. Rock star John Mellencamp belongs to the latter. Mellencamp made it plain long ago he disagrees with the war in Iraq, yet supports our soldiers. Last year he proved his support by performing at Walter Reed Hospital. I'm watching a rerun of that compassionate benefit at this moment on HD Net. Mellencamp's voice has aged over the years. At 56, however, he continues to put on a formidable show, rocking with as much enthusiasm as he did 20 years ago. And, I respect a man like Mellencamp who sings of social issues with a tinge of Christian consciousness, walks humbly, and challenges each of us to walk in another man's shoes. His piece, The Americans, speaks to old fashioned Americanism which summons us to respect each other not for our clicks, but for our character. It calls us to genuine living-"be who you are" as the saying goes. Hat's off to Mellencamp. He's one lefty I can listen to with a clear conscience .