As I understand it, her decision to live in that region and cover a particular story was partially based on a belief that she’d be among the “good Muslims” we’ve heard about.  The ones persecuted for the actions of the “extremist Muslims.”  The ones so glad to have a sympathetic American ear that they would treat her as a welcome guest.

Surprise.

Her disillusionment aside — how can she expect her government not only to rescue her from the peril in which she placed herself, but to make it a top priority?  “Please just do whatever they want, give them whatever they want as quickly as possible.”

Jill, did you not grow up knowing that the U.S. doesn’t negotiate with terrorists?  Has that position not been massively reinforced since 9-11?  Admittedly, there have been some concessions made, and some Iraqi captives have been released instead of beheaded.  But what, other than a frantic hope, makes you think your case will be one of the exceptions?

I hope you know Christ as your Savior.   I hope you’re freed and allowed to come home to your family.  I hope that, if you live to old age, you have more common sense in the future.  I hope that you become a red, white or blue thread of character in our national fabric of a united nation, rather than a clashing yellow streak of entitlement.

Copyright 2010 by Tammi Mossman.