October 15, 2005

It's All Over But the Counting

When the polls closed in Iraq at 5 p.m. (local time), I'm sure many breathed a sigh of relief. Under heavy guard, Iraqi citizens came out to either accept or reject the draft constitution. Seven voters were injured in attacks on Baghdad polling stations, but the only deaths were those of three Iraqi soldiers who were on patrol elsewhere.

If it passes, it's one more hurdle overcome. But even if it doesn't, such a vote is a tremendous milestone. Who would have thought, just a few years ago, that average citizens in Iraq would have a say in how their government is run? Certainly not Saddam Hussein, who is awaiting trial on charges of crimes against humanity. Certainly not his sons, who were being groomed to take over--but met a gruesome (and much deserved) demise.

So many critics of our presence in Iraq complain that things are taking too long. Do they forget how long it took our own country not only to win its independence from England, but to get around to drafting our constitution?

The saying, "Rome wasn't built in a day," might be old, but it's also true. Like a growing child, these milestone moments should be appreciated for what they are. We don't expect that a child will grow up instantly. Therefore, we should also not expect a country that has been under dictatorial rule for over 25 years to jump into democracy without any problems.

One step at a time.

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