So far, the Kandahar mission has claimed the lives of 96 Canadian soldiers and one diplomat.

Based on that number, an overwhelming number of respondents were uncertain about whether the mission has been a success for Canada.

Many brave men and women have committed to serving our nation overseas, and it is unfortunate that young Canadians have lost their lives.

But to determine whether Canada's involvement in this war is successful, people must look beyond the number of causalities.

It may be a harsh thing to say, and we certainly don't want anyone to take this the wrong way, but soldiers die.

That is what they do.

These individuals know going in they may not come home alive.

Therefore, when weighing the merits of Canada's involvement in Afghanistan, it is important to consider the entire...