[AtLast]

I have to say that my usual response to such events do tend to be about western oil concerns, interfering with other nation's sovereignty, tribal contingencies, etc. However, recent events in the Middle East wherein the common people are standing up to tyrants and for human rights issues- has me doing a lot of thinking and doing research. There are numerous Face Book pages by just folks in these countries that have not been around before.

The role of social media and youth in these countries in terms of movements against oppressive governments/leaders and even religious ideology feels different to me. Consequently, I am trying to gain new perspectives and not fall back on some of my past opinions.

Also, I do live in an area in which there are several middle eastern family businesses and new neighbors. talking with them does bring me to re-thinking global interventions. I have not yet formed any particular stance with the No-Fly Zone in Libya and the UN resolution. I am finding that I just can't revert to my usual stance- which would be more left-wing in nature.

Yes, I am concerned about the US getting into yet another quagmire military situation, the cost to us and I don't trust the fact that Libyan sweet crude is the major type of oil used for heating in western European countries (the ones joining in this action). Yet, I don't want to dismiss the social movements that have been rising in the Middle East. What is changing in these countries? Why are these movements robust at this time? Am I understanding fully what a people that have been ruled under such oppressive regimes live with? What are international obligations here in terms of these movements? Or, am I falling prey to just another brand of propaganda?Anyone else have feel this way? Or, have helpful links, etc.? Guess my jury isn't out yet. I need to think further- read material- guess just kick it around more!

So- any an all thoughts on these subjects are welcome!