I think it’s an honest statement and I agree, but not for all the same reasons that he (or others here) necessarily has in mind (I’m guessing). There are a lot of variables that come into play with the “education” of the American people on our current status in Iraq -some are within his control, some not.

IMO, I think he and his people have done a poor job in their content, context, manner and timing in communicating to the public more often than not in the last couple of years (more or less). Now, don’t miscontrue that statement as to meaning I am going left or right with it. I’m not, there are things I base it upon that will cause vehement disagreement from one side or the other. Also, this doesn’t mean I am against the war either, I’m not (against the war)

I assume the second paragraph is from his address the other night? I still haven’t read it so I’m not sure how to respond as to him talking down to us (I’m paraprasing), if it is, let me know and I’ll read it. Then give you my take.

off the cuff, it appears that a lot of Americans don’t understand and the lesson trying to be taught isn’t concise. You point out accurately that one can learn a language in two years (if motivated) So, using a school as a parable, the teacher has his resonsibilites, as does the administration, as do the students. I think all have failed to some degree

(Bush the teacher, the Administration would be those who
decide how, when, what and where materials are allowed to be used in the curriculum they approve of(I’m thinking in the context of the media mostly maybe, I need to add the School Board and disseminate it more properly) and the public – us are the students.

I know that isn’t a very eloquent example but I am a little pressed for time at the moment.
I look forward to your critique.