I am in Iraq and, for the past month, have been writing for this blog under the pseudonym D. Alighieri.
From now on, I will be writing under my real name. I've decided to do this for two reasons: First, though at times I'm afraid here, publishing under a pseudonym does not suit me -- at all. Second, there are small but interesting things that happen here every day and, as time permits, I'd like to relate those things to you in short posts along with, (when possible), pictures.
I will be continuing the series formerly published under "D. Alighieri," since I love writing about this place in that style--it helps truly relate how it feels to be here and it helps give you, my readers, a window on my deepest thoughts and personal feelings about this place and its people. In my opinion, the experience of living in a foreign country embroiled in war cannot be honestly related any other way. There are too many layers to the experience.
I will tell you what I see here as honestly as possible. Due to obvious reasons though, I will change the names of the people I meet in order to protect them and their families from harm. And I will never talk about matters concerning the safety and security of others in a way that would jeopardize them.
I am excited to be in Iraq as history unfolds before my eyes. I am proud of our soldiers -- humbled by their bravery, dignity and class. It is really something to see. I am awed by the brave Iraqis I've met. Their courage, to me, is almost unfathomable. I can't wait to tell you about them. We must not abandon them and those like them here; all good, brave souls. If we are a moral nation we must buy those righteous Iraqis the time they need to stand their country on its feet.
For my part, I am honored to be one of the many American civilians, (overwhelmingly Southerners and Southwesterners, by the way), who have decided to come here and help them do just that.
