Kevin D. Korenthal, July 4, 2004

Who else is celebrating their independence? Iraq is, that’s who! It happened so quickly I think some didn’t even realize it had occurred. But on June 28th Iraq regained its political sovereignty under the guidance of peace-loving Iraqi Patriots. You remember Patriots don’t you? Those were the men and women that have risked their lives in serving a cause much greater than themselves. Already, hundreds of potential Iraqi leaders have been murdered because they represented hope for Iraq and The Middle East. Many have paid the price before service was ever even rendered by them.

In America’s Battle for Independence, war raged for many years. Tens of thousands lost their lives and a whole generation of wounded-class citizens was created. In that fight, The Patriots sought to create a better government than the one they had left behind. Despite those who opposed a sovereign America and America gained its independence from Britain and eventually became the bedrock for Democracy. And it happened just as it had been declared to be on July 4th 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Today Iraq struggles against a formidable foe in its quest for freedom and Democracy. Iraq has been ruled by fear and suffering as means to control the population. From now on they will operate under a liberal constitution that protects the rights of women and allows for the practice of all religions. A Federalist Democracy that allows for significant autonomy by regions or "states." The effect will have a snowball’s effect on the Middle East. Today "friendly" (term used loosely) nations in the Middle East are speaking of reform and sending troops to the fledgling nation of Iraq to assist in keeping the peace as Iraq heads toward Democratic Elections next year. This was the plan from even before the Occupation began. It’s been a real tough road and there are many trials (both the life trials and those ending in hangings) to come. But Iraq is on its way to becoming a beacon of hope to Democratic reformers all over that region.

So when you are chomping down your hot dogs, throwing back your beers or burning your fingers (hopefully not more) on "Safe & Sane" fireworks please take some time to reflect on the latest fledgling Democracy and how your nation, the one whose birth you celebrate today made it all possible.

Copyright © 2004 Kevin D. Korenthal