Strangely in the present day we are bombarded with stories and images constantly that have nothing to do with our lives... things 10,000 miles away. Pre-industrial people never had to deal with this. I think I personalize it to much, especially the war coverage. I get really depressed about the Iraq war. Why is the world such a messed up place? Why can't we all get along? (clich, I know) Somehow I feel all the hate being directed around personally. But can you escape it?

What makes it even more depressing is the half truths and deceit we're being fed about this situation. Those who take the time to educate themselves on the past two decades worth of related history will see a different picture. Those in charge of this "operation" are being supported by ignorance. Such a thing is too often responsible for needless human suffering.

Yes, Beet, you can escape it. And if the news is upsetting to you, you have a duty to yourself to escape it. This current situation is difficult enough for anyone to take in and deal with, much less someone struggling w/depression or simply prone to being too sensitive to keep being bombarded w/news about.

I was ill last week when this all broke out, and I watched TV for 3 days. I haven't watched the news since. I just ask my husband if there is anything pertinent to my life that I have to know (for my safety or the safety of my children). Otherwise, to me, it does not exist. Yes, I'm sticking my head in the sand. But I doubt the outcome of the war is dependent on a rural Missouri resident keeping up with the news.