Some things just give you faith in a politician. I know what you might be thinking: The word "faith" and anything beginning with "politic" should never be seen together in a sentence, but I have to showcase one of the striking examples of our current president's commitment to his populace. I applaud President Bush's pre-White House research into the lifestyles of his potential demographic. This type of in-depth examination exhibits a commitment and fortitude not typical amongst politicians on either side of the aisle. How can one expect to relate to those whom he wants votes from, and whom he wants to help, if one is not brave enough to take an uninhibited step into their world?

Although I have an undying, heart wrenching and thoroughly disturbing admiration for our fortieth President, Ronald Reagan, I must say, my faith in his dedication was never as virulent as it is for Gee Dubya. Reagan's much famed War on Drugs has largely failed to make any difference to this country's culture of chemistry. To experiment with hard drugs for one's country, however, is a noble undertaking, indeed.

Think of the dangers of the drug cocaine, for example. They are rather pervasive. Overdose is the main health risk, although heavy coke users also experience perforation of the septum. This is the membrane at the top of the nose that separates the nostrils. Unpleasant side effects of such an occurrence include nosebleeds, nasal blockage, bloody mucus and, at worst, a completely eroded septum. Even more awful news is that the septum does not repair itself, much less grow back.

The psychological dangers of coke are frightening, too. Aggression, confusion and paranoia can ensue: not traits we would like to see from a United States President! But our President, George W. Bush, was prepared to put himself through these physical and mental horrors for the good of our nation. His effort to understand that which plagues America sets him apart from all those who came before him.

Think of all the social issues that afflict our cultural climate today! Violence, racism and poverty are insidious. Research like George W. Bush's, involving hands-on experimentation and investigation could solve so many of our problems, and yet, the majority of our public servants are unwilling to inconvenience themselves for a good cause.

Education and understanding are the keys to a better society. Despite their good intentions, Ronald and Nancy Reagan just never exhibited the commitment to understanding our country's drug problem in the way President Bush has. I call on all of us to take the President's initiative and dabble in that which we do not understand for the good of our nation.