As someone long opposed to war, I feel very confused over my feelings. NZ has also sent troops away - the first ship has left today for Darwin; the scenes of departing family members I find distressing, and also knowing personally of one family gives a greater immediacey to it all. I have always had a great contempt for politicians who create power mongering conflicts - you know the belief "its rarely the politicians who die..it's the youth in their combat fatigues"? BUT; I have felt utter frustration at my country's impotency. Hearing of the atrocities for so long, and knowing of nothing being done to stem the apparent carnage. Although it is just "over the fence" from our place, a New Zealander had to be killed (a couple of years ago) before this country even seemed to acknowledge it. The media seems drawn to reporting on and giving prominance to wars, where the victims wear western clothing and have white faces. I am relieved that there is now an "intervention", but ashamed that it has taken so long. Ana....