Section 8, Paragraph ‘a’ of the Federal Flag Code reads “The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.”

During a recent visit to Sofia by President Bush, the streets were lined with American flags, several of which were flown upside-down.

Certainly, there was no official statement intended; but surely many Europeans see Bush as a threat to their lives and security.

Already reeling from our current wars in their backyard, they feel new tensions rise between NATO members and Russia, as our president labors to divert attention from his failure in Iraq.

Often times, it takes a friend to point out to you that your behavior is self-destructive. We broke up with our oldest friend, France, when she suggested it. Maybe this time?