Protect the Afghans, Yet

    We should set aside what we have done in the past in Afghanistan, and consider clearly what we should do in the future.

    And, what we should do now. 

   All the current information we are learning should mold, anew, the course we are taking. The government we have been propping up for 20 years is oppressive to women and others? Check. The Taliban hasn't changed? It is still oppressive to the people? Check. The populace has been driven around so long, much of them are emotionally incapable of defending themselves? Check.

   All things considered, then, let us go back in. Let us select a provisional government, one in which we choose the leaders. Leave that government in place long enough that it can reach a good state of health before opening up elections. If the government installed does not turn out to be benevolent, shed it, as well, and try yet a again. 

   Even in America, the task of electing good leaders is difficult. We often don't know much about the people we are voting on. In Afghanistan, perhaps the people are challenged even more. 

   But, the people deserve protection. We should not hesitate to go back in. We should be unwavering in our belief that the people are basically good, and just need to be freed from those among them who are not.