Michael J. Totten is back from his extended visit and hands-on experiment in birthing Democracy in Lebanon, and posting at TechCentral Station.

Totten had been "blogging from the Inception" at Spirit of America, where he reported live-blog from Lebanon throughout their recent liberation from Syrian control.

So what occurred in Lebanon? And what does it bode for the rest of the Middle East?

Totten quotes Student leader Nabil Abou-Charraf:

"Our revolution is about much more than ejecting Syria from the country and establishing democracy in Lebanon," he told me. "It is also important that we heal the old wounds. We cannot go back to the past, to the civil war. We want to rebuild our country." He tapped the side of his head. "And that includes rebuilding our minds. Lebanon has been so divided. We stand not only for freedom and independence, but also national unity and a new, modern, common, tolerant Lebanese identity.

A new, tolerant Lebanese identity, where the most popular symbol -- aside the cedar-adorned Lebanese Flag itself -- has been the Muslim crescent and the Christian cross. Not exactly the Lion and the Lamb lying down together, but just about as remarkable.

Again from Abou-Charraf:

"This isn't just about Lebanon, either," he said. "You want to know what we're doing? I'll tell you what we're doing. We are resolving the clash of civilizations."

A clash of ideas. And since the Cedar Revolution ignited following the assassination of former Prime Minister Hariri, without violence. Thanks to the courage, determination, and tolerance of the Lebanese people.