“Supporting” the Troops.

In a comment here in response to a post on why I am not a conservative, Markadelphia took exception to another comment on language manipulation. To wit:

“Something I’ve noticed about Leftists is that they seem to think they can somehow change a concept or even reality itself by simply changing the word used to describe that concept.”

I have noticed this about about “conservatives” as well. In fact, I think the right side of the aisle is much more adept and effective at manipulating language. If you are against the war in Iraq, then you must not support the troops.

I ran across this OpinionJournal piece today, courtesy of Instapundit, that pretty much says it all on that topic.

When I tell people that Evan has joined the Army, their reactions are almost always the same: their faces freeze, they pause way too long, and then they say, “I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry for you.” I hang my head and look mournful, accepting their sympathy for the worry that lives in me. But as it dawns on them that Evan wasn’t drafted, as Vietnam still clings to my generation, their expressions become quizzical, then disbelieving. I know what they’re thinking: Why in the world would any kid in his right mind choose to enlist when we’re in the middle of a war? I begin telling them the story, desperate to assure them it wasn’t arrogant patriotism or murderous blood lust that convinced him to join.

Arrogant patriotism or murderous blood lust – obviously the only two reasons anyone would join the military. Or, as James Taranto notes, lack of a good education.

Bet if you ask her, though, she “supports the troops.”

I don’t believe that most people who are against the war in Iraq are like this woman, but I believe it of every single marcher at the anti-war rallies who carries a Code Pink sign.