For those who continue to suggest that recent success in Iraq is some sort of mirage, you may want to consider a report from the AP describing recent developments among the Shiite and Sunni clerics. As is always the case with such news one should remain cautiously optimistic. But to dismiss positive results especially if your prevailing position is that of a far left antiwar surrendering and appeasing liberal makes the case for those who oppose your defeatist and submissive behavior.
The now famous troop surge that was dismissed by liberal critics who are totally invested in defeat for at least political reasons has established a beneficial trend in Iraq. Reports have indicated the improvements were enough to convince displaced Iraqis to return home. And while visitors to my blog have been known to call the reduction in violence an Al-Qaeda ploy to wait out a US departure, the combination of the surge, peaceful pursuits of clerics, returning Iraqis and the continued joint efforts of US forces and tribal leaders against insurgents discredits that conclusion. It appears to be more of a desperate reaction to prop up the failing surrender position of the left. How misguided it is that some people will favor defeat over the very democracy that gives them the freedom to act so stupid.
There is no time like the present to take the opportunity to again express my appreciation for all the men and women in the armed services past and present for their dedication, commitment, courage and sacrifice. Their contribution to the cause of peace and freedom makes it possible for all of us to lead the lives we do and gives hope to those who have yet to reach this universal goal. To take a moment to express thanks is the very least one can do for all that has been bestowed by the selfless acts of others. To oppose or counter or otherwise dishonor their service is a sin for which there is currently no adequate definition.
In the political climate present in these United States it is incumbent upon all of us to take every opportunity to support the troops as there are far too many instances of people and organizations promoting the weakness that only serves the enemy and is detrimental to the future of this nation. Too many have sacrificed too much to allow that to happen. Remember this as the Presidential campaign continues and we are all called to decide who will lead this country. Those who have repeatedly called for surrender in the face of the growing threat of terrorism must not be allowed to be involved in governing this country. Certainly not in the highest office in the land. The Office of President of the United States requires unquestionable strength and complete commitment to resist those who would do harm to this country.
The positive advances in Iraq mentioned earlier need to be fostered by us all. Rather than leave in defeat as suggested by the left we need to depart after victory and assisting a deserving people to live in the peace, freedom and prosperity afforded by the process of democracy.
Stanford Matthews
Blog @ MoreWhat.com
Iraq's top Shiite cleric calls for Sunni-Shiite unity, end to sectarian bloodshed
The Associated Press
Published: November 27, 2007
NAJAF, Iraq: Iraq's top Shiite cleric renewed his call for an end to sectarian violence in the country and for Sunni and Shiite Muslims to unite, according to a Sunni cleric who met him Tuesday in this holy city south of Baghdad.
Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani's plea for peace and unity came as a group of Sunni and Shiite clerics met in Najaf in the latest attempt by clerics from both sects to stem the violence. The meeting was sponsored by the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council, Iraq's most influential Shiite party, which is closely linked to al-Sistani.
Later, Khaled al-Mulla, one of the 10-member Sunni delegation, said the Iranian-born religious leader called for solidarity between the two sects and an end to the bloodshed, which has intensified after a major Shiite shrine north of Baghdad was bombed in February 2006 by Sunni militants.
"I am a servant of all Iraqis," al-Mulla quoted al-Sistani as saying.
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