Prior to September 11 I had read several articles about the emerging freedoms in the Middle East; a burgeoning underground youth scene in Iran, the gradual (and generational) rejection of the abaya, the opening of Saudi Arabia to small contingents of closely-watched tourists. I had even purchased an Iraqi Techno/Dance CD. While perceived by some to be an encroachment of "Western values", there was a palpable sense that large yet subtle cultural shifts were taking place Â? shifts that could lead to major geopolitical adjustments. In an ostensible attempt to speed the ripening of these fruits of freedom, Dubya launched his war. As terrorist attacks multiplied, American civilians became increasingly valued as targets. Now, there is an impending Western family exodus from places like Saudi Arabia. It's obvious what one of the results of such an exodus would mean: a rollback of what few liberties have established purchase thus far. That's not good. As imperfect as Western democracies sometimes appear, the norms that govern daily life in the West have proven more successful in inspiring intergenerational cultural growth in the Middle East than any amount of Marines (or well-intentioned assistance programs) could accomplish. Contrary to the optimism so cavalierly displayed by world leaders, the regressive erosion of civil rights and individual freedom is now worldwide, immeasurable, and trending downward. But don't take my word for it, we Democrats are notoriously pessimistic. To us, the world is always a benighted, desiccative place. Have a problem? Here's the Democratic answer:

Turn off the lights and the problem disappears.

In the case of bird migration, this is especially true. However, the phrase is regrettably apropos as a description of my own problem-solving tactics. Low Culture has also weighed-in on darkness as a political solution (of sorts). Even Dubya has occasionally found solace in the warm blackness of unknowing (i.e. Operation Ignore). So before we go ass-over-teakettle in our rush to flood the world with the blinding light of truth, it'd be wise to consider all our options to the contrary. If you feel that you're called by God to spread truth and freedom, please shoehorn your head up your dark and manky butt. Thank you. Good night.