Concerning the October 24, 2001 article, "New bill may require Pledge of Allegiance in schools," I have one question. Why is it that our country is just now giving students the chance to have a moment of silence? It should not take terrorism, extreme loss of life on American soil and the beginning of air warfare to make representatives realize that faith is a strong shield.

The separation of church and state has made representatives say that they are encouraging "patriotism." Along with "patriotism" in the past came mutiny, anarchy and radicalism. It is doubtful that representatives are looking for this in light of world affairs. Representatives should just tell the truth. They are stressing "faith." When that moment of silence is conducted in high schools across the nation, prayer is what representatives are expecting to take place.

President George W. Bush had no problem asking this great nation to pray. On December 13, 2000 he said, "I have something else to ask you, to ask every American. I ask for you to pray for this great nation. I ask for your prayers for leaders from both parties. I thank you for your prayers for me and my family."

In another address given recently, President Bush stated, "And, finally, please continue praying for the victims of terror and their families, for those in uniform, and for our great country. Prayer has comforted us in sorrow and will help strengthen us for the journey ahead." Representatives should follow the courage presented by President George W. Bush and stop hiding behind their term of "patriotism." They need to say what their true point is. Americans, pray for our nation, our government and the future.