Barack Obama has been quoting this a lot lately, defending his position that talking to other nations is better than making war first.

It is an arrogance, he pointed out, that we thinking all the other nations of the world must do exactly what we say, no questions asked, no hesitation allowed.

He even suggested that WE -- WE THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA -- could sometimes show some good faith to help facilitate discussions, such as lightening up on travel restrictions to Cuba or allowing more Cubans to send money home to their families.

Gasp! What next?

Allow the takeover of Florida?

Is it the national policy we should negotiate only with our friends?

It seems that only in the narrow circle of Bush's White House and only in other arrogant and aggressive nations is the idea proudly waved and flaunted that diplomacy takes place only between those who already agree with us.

Other nations are expected to jump through hoops before even getting to the negotiation's table. They must first already concede to our demands!?

They must first, for example, declare they will never developer nuclear power. Or they must be able to stop all rocket attacks by radicals and splinter groups. Or maybe they must release all political prisoners, open up the press, have democratic elections we approve of and then..only then, we can talk.

But what exactly would be negotiate if all U.S. demands were first already met? Do we expect them to bend over next and/or then kiss our butts?

In fact, unions have to negotiate with management to get a deal, not get the deal before the talks.

Spouses going through a divorce have to work it out in court or through some other means.

This doesn't mean giving up everything or allowing evil to thrive. It means demanding what you think is right or is your due. It the normal, common sense way to try to work things out...before blowing up the factory, planning the extermination of your Ex, or starting a war.