"Even amongst ourselves we have widely varying standards of success, don't we?"
Exactly. I've simply come to wonder what any individual's definition of success has come to mean. Ryan Crocker recently said this about Iraq but I believe that it applies to Afghanistan as well-
"There will be no single moment at which we can claim victory. Any turning point will likely only be recognized in retrospect..."
His comments imply an undetermined commitment of some length. We should expect no less in Afghanistan.
"I took standards of success in context of this article: First, no return of Tali-Tubbies to power; next, marginalization of Tali-Tubby supporters in Afghan psyche; finally, a general committment among Afghans to never let the likes of Tali-Tubbies back into mainstream ~ whatever difference among themselves might be. Basically defense, education and loyal opposition."
Well put. Points two and three are the greater challenge, requiring a consistant and long-term perspective by donor nations and Afghans alike. There are massive cultural and organizational impediments to both "education" and "loyal opposition". Still, IMV, you are functionally correct.
Cactus, I also believe that success is possible. When confronted by a medieval "fortress mentality" amongst farmers who'd willingly mine their neighbor's fields as example, I try not to lose my perspective and time-line of patience.
