I’m sick to death of all the right wing blogs spouting off this or that about how wonderfully we’re doing in Iraq. And that goes double for the Bush administration. It’s a huge, steaming pile of horseshit. What follows below is an email from my old friend, Jason (not his real name), who is working as a contractor training police officers in Iraq.
> morning. I hope you’re safe and doing well. I just wanted to let you know
> that we’re praying for you, Jason. I’m hoping you’re safe.
Hey, really nice to hear from you. Things are a bit crazy out here. I just
hope I’ve got more than only 9 lives. š I might have used them all up
already.
I’m stationed in [city removed] right now. Living on [base removed]. Things are
really quite crazy. The news doesn’t do it justice.
A couple pix for you (pic1 pic2 pic3). The one where I look upset, I’m really just “motivating”
my partner to get out of the hummer so we can continue on in the 140 degree
heat….motivation…..so he decided to take a picture of my motivation
techniques. š
Hope things are well with you and your family. Looks like I won’t make it back
for our ten year….unfortunately. I was looking forward to getting to see all
you guys again. Hopefully soon…
Take care Seth,
Jason
> Would you mind terribly if I posted this email on my website? I know a
> ton of folks who seem to think that things are hunky dory over in Iraq and
> don’t believe what they see on the TV.
>
> Hoping you’re getting three square meals and a good place to sleep.
> Thinking of you.
Hey, as long as you don’t put my name or my location. š I could get in a bit of trouble for “making a statement” to a type of “media outlet”. ifyou get what I mean. š
I suspect the news will begin showing a little more of the dirty laundry from this area as the elections get closer.
I had expressed my support for Jason and his efforts and my heartfelt solidarity with him. I want him to be safe, but even when he isn’t, there’s not another soul I’d rather have doing this kind of work. I miss Jason. I want him to come home safely. But let’s not kid ourselves that the violence in Iraq is getting better, because it’s not. It’s getting worse.
I pray for Jason every night. And I pray that things improve in Iraq, but I don’t fool myself that they’re good already and you shouldn’t either.
I love Jason to tears. I’ve known the guy since the sixth grade and, despite a rough patch during senior year, he is an amazing friend. Jason is in Iraq by choice because he believes he can make a difference an help the people and the nation. If he says things are bad, I sure as hell belive him.
Good night, Jason. I’m thinking of you.