you should read this

http://facts.randomhistory.com/interesting-facts-about-iraq.html

no really, you should. take five to ten whole minutes to truly connect 5,000 years of history that has happened in one area. Remember why Iraq today is worth improving. Can you imagine what people will say about the US right now 5,000 years from now? That's right, they won't, we are a small blip on the map. With an election days away, the choices will lead us for 50 years at the most, no matter who wins. Either party will makes choices the opposition judges as incorrect and no matter what, the president will be vilified. My personal beliefs aside, strong as they are, looking at a country's multi-millenial history makes you really think about your importance in this world. It also makes me even happier that I decided to come here. Apparently (based on #1) it's my ancestral land too. Who knew? Getting away from the barrages and skewed views of the US is the best thing I could have done. It's simply a blessing that it was because I found an amazing job with great people and great students. Some days, you simply have to look at what there is in front of you. Today is one of those days.