I was in Italy recently and was approached by several people during my time there--a Filipino seminarian, two Dutch couples over dinner, some of the Italians--regarding my feelings as an American on the prospect of war. It was clear this is seen as George W. picking a fight, not something the Europeans (nor I ) can readily comprehend. I never experienced anti-American sentiment, although I was always prepared for it. Seems that's not the case--it is the American government, not the American people, who are perceived as the problem.After all, it wasn't elected officials who died in the Trade Center either. Ubiquitous to Italy were the "bandiera della pace", the Peace flags. Large rainbow-striped flags that proclaim "Peace" in Italian over the stripes. I brought several home with me and they are now gracing the walls of colleges, schools and parishes in my town. Pace, --djs