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 picture- why we are there.

Poll results also show the public understands there is a global terrorism threat and it's centred in Afghanistan.

Acknowledging that, we must focus on our collective values and what it is we are willing to do to protect and promote those ideals.

Canadians for the most part are committed to carrying out the country's duty in Kandahar until 2011, but would oppose attempts to lengthen its role.

And that is fine.

We have made a commitment and intend to see it through. No one can ask more of us.

In the meantime, we must support our troops whole-heartedly.

To paraphrase a quote by U.S. WWII army general George S. Patton, 'it is foolish and wrong to mourn the people who died. Rather, we should thank God that such people lived.'