Seeing this on whatreallyhappened.com reminded me of other recent presentations I've seen about Iranians, such as this show by travel guru Rick Steves, some satirical interviews from Jason Jones on the Daily Show, and a travel video made by one of my friends in Code Pink. They all depict Iranians as about the sweetest, most hospitable people on the planet, whose lives are surprisingly similar to Americans. I've done a lot of traveling, and while Americans are also extremely hospitable, they are probably the most clueless of all "civilized populations" as far as knowledge about other nations. It pains me to know how most Americans imagine Iranians to be a bunch of terrorists. It angers me that we never get to see the good side of foreigners unless we're allowed to see it ... the only images we're ever presented of Iranians are old pictures of hostage-takers, flag-burners and stern-faced ayatollahs. Fear stems from ignorance. If only Americans could see how much these people are like them, I don't think we'd have anything to fear ...
They want to be our friends, do they? After what they've seen the usa has done to Iraq, why would they WANT to be our friends? Are you really serious? You shouldn't insult such an ancient culture that way. Its unbecoming, but typically very "american-esque". After the UNFORGIVABLE ATROCITIES committed in Iraq and Afghanistan, to try and convince me that anyone would actually want to befriend us is pathetic and tripe. Very stunted.
Kenny, I totally agree that our biggest enemy in the United States are our own corrupted "leaders" that stem from a thoroughly corrupted system. As long as big money rules politics, there's no where else to go but down. The system will kill itself, the question is, who will it take with it?
Which brings me to your comment, Anonymous. I make a clear distinction between people and governments. I came of age in the 1980's, and while I abhorred the Soviet government, I really liked and respected the people and their culture. I really did want to be their friend. I truly believe that's how the Iranians view us.
This is where I come to vent and blather about what they don't seem to talk about in the mainstream news. I've written quite a few articles in the past (mostly on Portland Indymedia) and I'll try to include my favorites on here as well, when time allows. I also like to talk about ideas and solutions as to what we can do about the mess our planet is in. Check out my radio work, too.
I believe it's up to each and every one of us to contribute our own special talents to make this world a better place for all of us.
I used to volunteer for KRFP, a great community radio station in Moscow, Idaho. I have over 50 radio commentaries (including scripts) posted elsewhere on the internet. Check them out by searching under my name at http://radio4all.net!
Grandfather, look at our brokenness. We know that in all creation only the human family has strayed from the sacred way. We know that we are the ones who are divided and we are the ones who must come back together to walk in the sacred way. Grandfather, sacred one, teach us love, compassion, and honor that we may heal the earth and heal each other.
3 comments:
So true Jody
Our enemies are internal. They are 'us.'
They want to be our friends, do they? After what they've seen the usa has done to Iraq, why would they WANT to be our friends? Are you really serious? You shouldn't insult such an ancient culture that way. Its unbecoming, but typically very "american-esque". After the UNFORGIVABLE ATROCITIES committed in Iraq and Afghanistan, to try and convince me that anyone would actually want to befriend us is pathetic and tripe. Very stunted.
Kenny, I totally agree that our biggest enemy in the United States are our own corrupted "leaders" that stem from a thoroughly corrupted system. As long as big money rules politics, there's no where else to go but down. The system will kill itself, the question is, who will it take with it?
Which brings me to your comment, Anonymous. I make a clear distinction between people and governments. I came of age in the 1980's, and while I abhorred the Soviet government, I really liked and respected the people and their culture. I really did want to be their friend. I truly believe that's how the Iranians view us.
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