I've heard many, many opinions on this subject today. Whether you are of the opinion that this discussion does or does not belong on this mailing list, bear in mind that we deal with our history here. I hope that this discussion is enlightening and that I haven't imposed my personal prejudices on anyone. But, since I posted the original message, I am going to make this personal statement on the subject: For those of you who still insist that the word "God" is synomymous with Christianity and has been interjected by the government to force a Christian majority - ENOUGH ALREADY! The word "God" in this context is symonymous with Creator - no matter what WORD you choose to use, be it Allah, Father, or The Big Chief. It establishes the premise that this nation was founded upon the belief of the majority, [in this context synonymous with "We the people...."], in a Creator. The person who started this issue in the Ninth Judicial Distrist of the State of California is an atheist, who believes in NOTHING. Ergo, the public recitation of a belief in SOMETHING offends him. To further his cause, the word "God", in this context, is made synonymous with kicking boy. Finally, to those of you who REALLY do think that it's unconstitutional and unnecessary to teach small school children to believe that there is a Creator, whose name, [whatever you choose to call it] is synonymous with light in the darkest hour; courage in the face of fear; benevolence in the depths of sorrow; protection in shadow of evil. And, whose name is synomymous with unconditional, immeasurable and neverending love, courage, strength, and hope - then why don't you put YOUR children in a private school. Because in America, most children go to public school and in America we teach our children to be proud of their beliefs, and in America the word "God" is synonymous with our beliefs. Nancy