Steve

I can't help but wonder about people's perceptions in other historic times. In our time we can look back in awe at the great events that occurred, the main participants, and the extent to which they changed human culture and history. But did those who were living at the time of the 'big events' have any idea of the greatness in which they were involved? Or did it seem to be only slightly out of the parameters of ordinary life? Most often, these changes occurred over an extended period of time with vast controversy, hardship, endurance, and sacrifice. I suspect that most of the participants did not entertain visions of grandeur, but simply thought that they were doing the 'right' thing according to the principles that informed their lives. These ideas upon which they 'walked the walk' at the proper time produced changes that we can admire and be inspired by in our day.

I also wonder whether we are living in one of those times. With the elections in Afganistan and Iraq, and the movements toward changes in other parts of the Middle East, such as Lebanon and Egypt, there is a good possibility that future generations will look at our times and judge them as unbelievably awesome. They may envy us for living in such exciting times of change toward freedom for so many. Ironically, to us living it, these 'exciting times' are filled with the mundane-- shovelling snow, paying bills, and teenage zits. Nonetheless, we would be wise to live our daily lives with an eye to perceiving and promoting these remarkable changes.

It is said by some that we cannot export democracy and freedom to cultures such as those in the Middle East. At other points in history I might agree, but today the world is much 'smaller'. The ideas that espouse freedom are no longer locked out of even the most closed areas. They are no longer unknown or even rare in areas like China or Iran. This was illustrated most poignantly by friends that visited Mongolia. They pointed out that many aspects of American culture are familiar to the Mongolians, from pop musical groups and products, to ideas of depth.

Of course there will be violent opposition. There always has been to changes like these, but it is much like a woman giving birth. It is most often with turmoil, pain, and great stress, but when that child is born, there is great happiness. And even that is followed by a couple of decades of sacrifice and heartache mingling with the blessing and joy.

I am appreciating that dopey cowboy from Crawford more and more.

Michael Moore (and much of Hollywood), John Kerry, Ted Kennedy, Howard Dean, and Ward Churchill (just to name a few)-- the dandruff shed from heady times.