By Peggy Gish
August 22, 2004

Since returning to Iraq, I am frequently asked about what it is like for the Iraqi people now. While it’s easier to focus on the difficulties and crises they are experiencing, I also look for movements of hope.

On a day-to-day level, there are meager improvements in their standard of living and the increased availability of modern appliances and technology. Overshadowing any satisfaction about this, however, looms the lack of security and control Iraqis continue to feel over the circumstances of their lives and the future of their society.