Today, Lebanon celebrated the Beirut Marathon. Typically, the Lebanonese had to add a vulgar and nationalist cast. It was said that the participation of Lebanese in the marathon is evidence of Lebanese support for "democracy" and "freedom of expressions." As for how, don't even bother asking. Just accept it. Just as LBC-TV is still running those silly "public service" ads against littering, which ends with: "We are a civilized people." Growing up in civil-war torn Lebanon, I missed that civilization I guess. Never even saw a glimpse of it...outside of the hummus plate of course.