The Iraqi Insurgency May Be a Good Thing.
By itrytobenice Posted in User Blogs — Comments (2) / Email this page » / Leave a comment »
Don't get me wrong, I am distraught at the loss of lives, including the innocent Iraqi citizens, the Iraqi army and law enforcement trainees, and American servicemen. Their losses have been heartrending. But is it possible that there may be a long term advantage? I think it is likely.
People have a need for national pride. Feelings of patriotism come from respect for your predecessors. My heart swells at the knowledge of the sacrifice and wisdom of our founding fathers and I believe that to be a natural human trait. Patriotism breeds self-sacrifice and respect for others within your own country. It is a strong glue that holds a land of separate and distinct people together.
Even when there is little reason to be proud, people grasp at wisps of greatness. The French revere the acts of the French Resistance and take great pride in their existence. Their acts were minuscule in number compared to the acts of cowardice and capitulation, but the need for predecessor respect is sated by Le' Resistance.
We invaded Iraq with the intention of defeating the Baathist army of Saddam Hussain. They could not be defeated, as the cowards tucked their tails in between their legs, took off their uniforms and hid amongst the women and children. They proceeded to attack us from behind the skirts of the women of their land, aided by evil men intent on oppressing the people of Iraq. We have modified our war tactics to fight them under these circumstances, but at the same time, enlisted Iraqis in the effort. Now, as time progresses, the Iraqis themselves will more and more be instrumental in that victory. They will be revered in years to come as Iraqi Minutemen. They will have their own Paul Revere. Their own George Washington.
Had we defeated the army of Saddam and handed the people of Iraq a peaceful and prosperous land, they would have lost the feeling of accomplishment that comes with fighting and winning your own freedom against an oppressive, would-be ruler. They would have had nothing but contempt for their predecessor dictator, Saddam. They would have known that their forefathers had been unable to break the yoke of bondage that Saddam brought. As it is, they will know the satisfaction of fighting a good fight. Winning freedom in spite of a brutal enemy. Bravery in the face of death. Patriotism is birthed in the blood of brave men and the Iraqis have provided brave men and blood for this battle.
May the nation of Iraq prosper and be proud in their great coming accomplishment and let it be known that I am grateful for and proud of the brave men and women of America who made possible the spread of freedom.
I agree with Big Lizard. We respect and appreciate a professor in college who was a wise mentor. We remember and treasure an early employer who generously gave us instruction, kind advice and helped us fix our foolish early mistakes.
There is no such respect or reverence from the panhandler to the thrower of the change.
You may also want to read this Big Lizards post.
The difference between being given something verses earning it is huge.