It seems counter-intuitive to some, but government is barbaric, just as the anti-self defense movement is barbaric. And, that term not only includes, but emphasizes their willingness, and desire to use lethal force against those who would resist them. 'Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.'
I wish no harm to this poor boy, and I hope he recovers from all of this to grow into a free and happy man. If he does, his will be a biography to remember.
However, there is another, interesting possible story here. It is not yet May, and we write to each other only one day before Easter. This is a memorable day, and there are still many months to go before the November elections in this country. Elian will experience much in the next seven months ... some are not optimistic about his upcoming experiences.
There are ample possibilities that the news will not be good in the Fall. There is a better than even chance in my mind that this boy will be spirited back to Cuba quite soon, despite the machinations of the federal courts. That may be the next black eye for Clinton and Reno. And, in his new life in Cuba, we may find that Elian is none too happy.
If that is the case, and if this matter becomes the albatross around Clinton's neck (the others having somehow always having flown away ...), then Mr. Gore may have some difficulties in November.
Perhaps a stretch, and again, I certainly don't wish for this boy to go through any more pain. But, in his special way, Elian may have actually helped turn the United States back towards freedom by showing us again what can happen when good people are enslaved by despotic governments ... on either shore.
Regards from AZ