"Do Not Hate Them Very Much" by Matthew M. Quick

I am continuing to read through the list of Million Writers Award notable stories of 2007. Another story which has seared its way into my mind is "Do Not Hate Them Very Much" by Matthew M. Quick. Published in AGNI online, this strong slice-of-life story is a gripping examination of the cross-cultural conflicts and communications surrounding a traffic accident in war-torn Iraq. The writing is extremely strong, with the main character crafted into life as only the best authors can do. What I particularly like is that this story doesn't present easy answers to the conflict and situation. The U.S. soldiers, the Pakistani drivers, the Indian narrator--everyone here exists as fully realized people trying to do their best in a difficult situation.