Democracy, Patriotism and Purple Fingers

When the history of the early 21st century is written, I think it would surprise most of us "Cyber Age" children how the lens of hindsight will focus. No doubt that among the most telling of photographs from this age will be ones like this - brave Iraqis staring death in the face just by casting their ballots, and sporting a purpled index finger to prove it.

Conservative radio personality Bill Bennet suggested that on Iraq's upcoming election day (December 15th), in a show of support for the Iraqi people and our mission there, his listeners should also apply purple to one of their index fingers. This seemingly childish idea is clever in its subtlety. It will be like Ash Wednesday, without the ash (or religion)!

Think about it - this election will be a major success for the Iraqi citizens and those of us who support the democratization of Iraq. One can only guess at the turnout as Baathists, Turkamen, Kurds, Sunnis and Shi'ite followers of Ayatollah Sistani and Muqtada al-Sadr are being encouraged to vote. Men AND WOMEN. I would not be surprised to see as many as 14 Million voters turn out -- that's more than half the population (including kids who are ineligible).

Want more proof? Read the Washington Post article: In Iraq, Signs of Political Evolution

It seems to me that this is especially significant, given the recent antics of Saddam Hussein in court, downright adolescent partisan lunacy from John Kerry, Jack Murtha and Howard Dean (among others), and lukewarm coverage from our increasingly transparent Liberal Media.

It's time for some more good news in Iraq, and we should let our Liberal neighbors, colleagues, friends and family know what it feels like to be on the right side of things. Fellow bloggers PASS THIS ON! December 15th is PURPLE FINGER DAY!