The whole mess was precipitated by the kidnapping by a terrorist group with ties to al-Qaeda of a French family on holiday in Mauritiana. The family were murdered. Following that, direct threats were made against rally participants. The rally, which has been run across Europe and Africa since 1977(it was originally called "Paris-Dakar") will never be held there again, but will be moved to South America in 2009, running through Argentina and Chile, specifically. One of the most historic events in the world changed forever. Can you imagine the NFL cancelling the Superbowl over such a threat? I am glad I live here.

The rally will survive as will the the people and nations who have lost the event, but it is another example of how terrorism is changing the face of the world and how people are simply allowing to happen rather than do whatever is necessary to stop it. When people capitulate to these bullies it only emboldens and unites them. I pray that America stands firm in the face of this madness and never, ever gives in to these low lifes.