Some things in life don't mix so well: as we have seen lately, art and politics.

In the world of music, which is art for the ears, artistic expression sells. At the same time, all art is more than expression; it has an underlying message. With the Dixie Chicks and Madonna, very talented and outspoken artists, the mix of these two has, as of late, caused a lot of controversy and some very strong response.

This isn't simply because the Dixie Chicks and Madonna are exercising their right to free speech, which they are fully entitled to. It is because they are applying their talent for artistic expression to their free speech. This has made their message stronger, and in turn they have been misunderstood by a lot of people.

The Dixie Chicks in particular should learn a valuable lesson through this experience: If you're going to criticize world leaders, especially the president of the United States, you better do it with some tact. We all have the right to disagree and do so openly. However, do it wisely, or you have a negative effect, not just on yourself but everyone involved. We must consider the nature of our disagreement before we open our mouths.

War is an emotional issue, but emotion gone unchecked can be just as harmful as the war it hates.