All We Like Sheep

No one can take advantage of you without your permission--Ann Landers

I just got back from an Alaskan Cruise, no I am not just bragging, I learned something...rather I had something re-affirmed that I and most of us already know: THE TSA IS NEEDLESSLY INVASIVE AND SUBSTANTIALLY INEFFECTIVE.

I always love the TSA defenders who would now say, "Well we appreciate that the TSA makes us feel safer" and they are absolutely right. The TSA makes them feel safer, but they do not in fact make any of us safer. And really, isn't that what they are supposed to be doing, making us safe!?!

Okay, so what did I learn from my cruise that is pertinent to the TSA discussion, well cruise ship security has gotten it right. They are both effective and minimally invasive. Not once on my cruise did I get to absorb unhealthy rads from an insta-porn machine nor did I get a sexually degrading groping over.

How do the cruise lines achieve this magic combination of effective, minimally invasive security measures. Well they did their homework. When we check in (much like when we have to check in for a flight) we submit information that allows the cruise line to ascertain how much of a security risk we pose. This is good business for cruises. They want to keep us safe at the same time they respect our personal autonomy which is a basis right under the laws of this country.

Next, when we checked in, the cruise line snapped a picture of each passenger, linking it with their electronic key card so that each time security swipes your card, a current photo appears on the computer screen and they know if you match your photo. This happens each time you leave or return to the ship. Easy as that...swipey, swipey.

And finally they scan all bags and packages. They do not even require liquids in a clear quart bag, or to be removed from your bags. This process is secure, sensible and leaves the traveler with their personal dignity. Most importantly, it's completely adaptable by the TSA.

So why doesn't the TSA respect our rights and adopt both more effective and less humiliating security measures...well they don't have too. "All we like sheep" have allowed them to have their way with us. And it is time to stop.

It is time we held the TSA to an American standard. We need to expect them to do their homework, including profiling based on country of origin, terroristic associations and suspicious behavior.

It is time we insisted that frequent fliers, and any other flier who is willing to go through the process, be allowed prior clearances and with the cruise ship swipe card this is possible.

If the TSA does their homework and has photo verified swipe cards, airport security costs will be greatly reduced and security will be greatly enhanced. In this day of big budget government and possible terrorist activity, these measures offer us a win-win.

It is past time that we quit giving the TSA permission to take advantage of us simply because we need or want to fly.