“There is one other option. If you sign the waiver denouncing your faith then we can let you go,” the other officer offered.

“I can never forsake my God,” she said with full determination.

“Very well then. You made your choice,” the officers said as they handcuffed her and escorted her out of the room.

The room was silent for a while. Finally someone asked, “Where will they take her?”

Mrs. Strong looked indignant as she said, “You heard the officer. She will be tried for treason and probably executed as the terrorist she is.”

“But aren’t the terrorists over there?” someone else demanded.

“Our country is at war. we are in political turmoil. Anyone who does not support the the nation and troops who willingly fight to preserve our freedoms is a terrorist,” she retorted with spite I had never heard before in her voice.

“But what about the freedom of worship?” I heard slip from my mouth.

The room fell silent again. I thought of the look on Emily’s face. I questioned if I would ever have that much faith.