Like I mentioned in a previous post, I was always wary of the idea of “bringing democracy” somewhere. You can’t just import democracy along with cell phones, lap tops and Nike shoes. Democracy is something that takes root and grows, and under the most favorable conditions it can flourish, but under poor conditions it can shrivel up and die. And the only thing that America, as occupiers in Iraq, can do, is make the conditions as favorable as possible.
However, what are favorable conditions to democracy? Surely being afraid for one’s life isn’t favorable to making plans for a new government. I think that there are more pressing issues on people’s minds now than who will occupy which ministry.
There is a war going on. I think definitely one of the biggest mistakes Bush made was his “Mission Accomplished” moment. Everyone was lulled into a false sense of security, and then things starting get bad. Apparently no one ever told certain factions that the war was over. And until they stop fighting, it isn’t. Plain and simple. However, I believe that an essential part of starting a democratic movement, is that everyone has to fight this war. Not just the Americans versus the terrorists.
Reading some of her journal entries makes me ashamed to be american and living here.... CaliGirl is definatly someone I want to meet in person and beable to call "friend"
ReplyDeleteThe compliment is appreciated, but why are you "ashamed to be American and living here?" How are you any different from me?
ReplyDeleteI didn't mean for that to sound the way it "seems". What I mean is, you've helped open my eyes to alot of things. Too many to describe. Some of the stuff you make me think about make me ashamed of the way "America" in general is turning to be. I can't change it, but I do try. Dont get me wrong, I appreciate the fact that I live in this country and I myself havn't had to fight for everyday freedoms. Its just certain people out there, thier actions and ways, make me ashamed that we are from the same country. Thats all. You make me think. And some of the things I think about make me ashamed of the way things are and how it could be better. I'm just a complicated person I rekon.
ReplyDelete