Stop, hey, what's that sound, everybody look what's going down.

Buffalo Springfield, "For What It's Worth

That was an anthem that moved a generation to anti-war activism two decades ago. Now in the new dawn of war it is time to evaluate our positions and to protest once again.

Anti-war protests are a right and a freedom struggled for many times throughout the years. The presence of anti-war protests are as American as the Constitution. Protest is a key way to tell our elected officials when we are dissatisfied with their course of action.

But, just as important as the right to protest the war, there is a responsibility we all need to heed. We must be informed. Neither side should take advantage of the freedom that allows us to shout slogans, sway signs and unfurl flags.

One way to stimulate rational thought and to promote factual discussions is through teach-ins. Protesting is serious and anyone taking part should know the facts fully. Regardless of ideology both sides want to achieve the same goal -- bring the troops home.

While demonstrations may lower the morale of troops in the Persian Gulf, anti-war protesters have taken the most important step in showing support for the troops by targeting the administration that sent them there. But letters, packages, and other signs of caring should be sent to soldiers in the Persian Gulf.

Instead of blaming the soldiers for decisions they did not make, they should be embraced. Demonstrations should be directed not at the soldiers, but at the administrators who sent them to die. While struggling vehemently for their anti-war beliefs, demonstrators should not forget those caught in the crossfire.

Follow your individual anthem. Listen, look and learn. Find out what's going down. Then, you can make your own decision to take action.