The United States of America is the longest standing democracy in the history of the world. Today, democracy is simply common sense, but if one looks at the course of human history, democracy is a relatively new concept. A concept that if not actively fostered so that it may grow and thrive in the current geo-political climate may recess into the ledger of history.
For decades the United States has taken a stand for freedom, with our Commander and Chief the primary proponent for democracy. The Presidency of George W. Bush is certainly no exception, and is a bold revival in the spirit of our own revolution and existence. The War in Iraq is not only a necessary step for the safety and welfare of our own nation, but a triumph of freedom in a region of the world that has been systematically denied this God given right. As an American, I can sleep easier knowing my homeland is a safer place, but maybe even more profound, is the fact that the innocent people of a Middle Eastern country will now enjoy the rights and privileges that our country has come to cherish.
The war on terror and an active campaign for freedom certainly does not come without a cost. I have the utmost admiration and respect for Presidents who do not fear making the difficult decisions or waver with the political whims of the time period. President Bush has made a proclamation that freedom is a timeless and mandatory virtue that America will stand by with all her might.
The President has stood tall against the waves of criticism that come with the use of military force. His confidence in the triumph of democracy spanned the globe right into the very homes and hearts of the people of Iraq. They are no longer silenced by terrorist and insurgent forces that draw their power from fear. It took a tremendous amount of conviction to hold strong to the vision of an Iraq free of the brutality of an overthrown dictator.
The people of Iraq responded to the President’s confidence in their will to overcome by forging an overwhelming resolve to have their voices heard. They came out to the polls in droves as they took part in the most fundamental act of a democracy, voting. The free Iraqi elections made a statement to the world: Freedom will now reign in yet another nation. Undeterred by the threats and violence, the people of Iraq joined the ranks of those who choose to govern themselves.
We have always been the city upon the hill, the beacon of freedom. Only now that beacon of freedom has been cast down upon the valleys where tyranny and oppression reign. If it were not for the actions of President Bush the 21st Century may have become an open window for those who use fear to take the hill that justice and freedom now reside.
In a world in which tyrants and terrorists lurch in the shadows of peace and prosperity, we must remember that democracy must take an active role not only to span the globe, but to exist in world where isolation is no longer a comfort that any country can take. This is the most important policy that any nation can undertake, and President George W. Bush has taken a stand for me and all my brothers and sisters as Americans who love and will always take a stand for freedom.
