W W J D?

(Where Will Johnny Dwell?)

 

It must rank as one of the stranger spectacles in an era where strange spectacles are almost commonplace.

 

A former Attorney General of the United States testifying before a Congressional Committee that waterboarding didn’t rise to the definition of torture.

 

Here is a man who calls himself a born-again Christian, a person whose sense of morality is so refined, he had drapes put around the statues of justice – because the cold marble of their naked breasts caused him anguish.

 

A man so indelibly religious he anointed himself with oil after being appointed to his high office – in order to be reminded of the awesome responsibilities standing before him.

 

A man known for his love of singing gospel songs, and holding prayer meetings for fellow believers.

 

A man who then can look straight into the eyes of Democracy, and say:

 

“Waterboading isn’t torture.”

 

John, let me say this:

 

At the moment after your last breath, when you finally stand before Almighty God face to face – and that little comment of yours comes to life… what do you think he’s going to say?

 

“Good goin’ Johnny boy! I hate those rag-heads even more than you! A little water up the nose never hurt anyone – at least not since the Inquisition and Nazi Germany. Now step lively – Paradise awaits!”

 

Or… maybe not.

 

Perhaps as you stand there, naked and trembling before your Living God, he’ll remind you of something you neglected to take into account:

 

You can stare in horror and tribulation, as you see your Lord bound and helpless, given up to suffer the humiliation, pain and terror of near drowning – with the image of your former self piously nodding in agreement.

 

 “In as much as you have done it to these, the least of my brethren – you have done it unto me. Depart from me, ye accursed – I never, ever knew you.”

 

Something to think about John.

 

And then… as the fires of torment start licking at your heels, remember… that’s not torture.

 

It’s divine retribution.