Yesterday, I took my dad and we went voting in our first ever Iraqi Election. Even though I am cynical about the whole electoral process, I am still willing to give it the benefit of the doubt and push forth in the name of progress. As an Iraqi living outside of Iraq yet still being able to vote, it was indeed a momentous occasion.

Iraq is a country that for decades now has been marred by a brutal dictatorship and sectarian violence… yet, the people still persevere and are slowly emerging from the ashes of oppression. Though Iraq still has a loooong way to go to re-establish itself globally as a hub for intellectual, technological, scientific, medical and spiritual advancements (as it once was not so long ago), it is on the right course to getting there one day, God-willing.

As it lays the foundation of a sovereign & democratic country, the framework for its future are being designed as we speak. I pray Iraqis come together and set aside any difference they may have, to rebuild this great nation of ours, restore the beauty of its rich culture, history, architecture and landscapes. May the Righteous prevail… Insh\’Allah.