More In Iraq
Looking forward: Democracy, wet and shaking, takes its first wobbly steps in Umm Qasr.
Looking backward: Iraqi scientists are saying that they were ordered to hide or destroy WMDs just hours before inspectors would arrive.
(Both taken from The Command Post - Iraq.)
Well, good for them in that Iraqi seaport. And I'm not being sarcastic as usual.
Whenever we see any sign -- even the smallest one -- one of any group of Iraqis who wish to live in freedom, with a government of just laws backed up by elected officials and an impartial system of justice in the courts, with individual civil liberties regardless of religious faith, sex, or tribal affiliation, then we should offer that group encouragement and assistance.
And to hell with the former saddamites, religious holy rollers or anyone else who tries to stand in the way. It's about time that religion of the type they have long practiced in the Middle East should be relegated to the level of everyone's private conscience, practice and preference.
In Umm Qasr, I would keep my eyes on the man identified as the town "Madison". He was the American founding father that gave us the United States Constitution. Let's see if his 21st century Iraqi disciple will keep his eyes on the prize and do something equally appropriate for his country.
I've been surprised before in my life. Let's hope I am once again.
Arnold Harris
Mount Horeb WI