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u gave me a great laugh and loved your satire [I wanna be your king]. I am a young supporter of Reza Pahlavi but hell, that was fun. Everyone should have the right to make fun of anyone they like adn chritisese anyone they like. But what anoyes me is that asshole Javid Jahanshah he is the most tastless SOB
ever. His job is to charachter assasinate RP, but the dumb fool is only assasinating
his own charachter with his discusting and tastless writings about RP, and Moe that
chartoonist have some funny pics about RP but most of them are just bad insults.
I'm writing in response to a letter written by some Hezbolla fool who insulted an Iranian-American lady for joining the U.S. Marine Corp [Iranian in U.S. Marine Corps?!]. He called her a "fucking disgrace" for choosing to fight under the U.S.
flag (even though she's an American citizen), and hopes to god that "they send
her whorish ass to Afghanistan or the Middle East someday" so that "an
Iranian soldier has the pleasure of putting a bullet in her sorry head." I trained with the Marines, and any one of us is worth a hundred incompetent Bassijis. I hope I never have to kill a fellow Iranian, but then you and your kind aren't real Iranians, so be careful what you hope for. Sarah Afshar, the Marine you insulted, is a more worthy example of an Iranian than you and all your vatan-foroosh friends combined.
I could not resist to comment on this article [Popular for the wrong reasons]. When I was in Iran I used to be proud of the old Iran we had. You know these TV stations (mostly NITV and PARS TV) belong to pro shah people and their main objective is to make their stupid ideology known to the Iranians. I really can not stand those Iranians that do not use their brains; They say Iran had the fifth military in the world or we all lived comfortably. Iran's military today is much stronger than the pathetic military we had in shah's time. Look in Shah's time our personell were trained in U.S, our guns were made by U.S. During shah's time for everything we had to get a a green light from the united states. Don't forget we were called the 52nd state of united states!!!! Reza pahlavi is good untill he does not want to become the king. I realy do not understand the argument these pro shahi people are trying to make. They often say that Iran's legacy is tied with monarchy. Ok i say let's break that $hity legacy and bring democracy to iran like a modern coutnry and do away with the Shah. If democracy to pro shahi's means that we have a useless parliment with a uselss prime minister assigned by the shah, then i say shah my a$$. The Pro Shahi often want to push iran's economy to break down so that they can pick up and get the power. I say putting iran's government on the corner does not help for pursuit democracy in Iran. I say as more engaged iran becomes in the world the government has to automatically give more power to the people. Ehsan Samani With the start of World Cup, I am again reminded of the deep humiliation we all felt when Iranian national team, with all its so-called European based stars, lost to that island nation during qualifying round!! There are no adjectives that can truly describe this latest fiasco in the annals of Iranian sports. The past twenty three years have been full of agony and despair for majority of our brethren in Iran and abroad. Remember when George Bush (the "BOY") had the audacity to call us members of an axis of evil. Hey George, where did you get the idea of insulting our beloved nation with its 3000 years of glorious history? Was it something that your daddy or your national security adviser whispered in your ear? Now back to the original topic: World cup gives participating countries, both large and small, an opportunity to showcase their young and talented. It matters not whether you win or lose. Just being there is a prestige and honor that will forever be bestowed upon the participating country. Seventy-five percent of earthlings watch it! Can you think of a better theater to silence all your critics by showing your true character, especially those who call you EVIL? Prove to them that even in the worst of times, both economically and politically, you can overcome obstacles; that you have no fear; that you can compete with the best. Unfortunately, we will not enjoy such occasion. Habitually, we want to point fingers and blame certain individuals. Let's see, how about Mr. Farahani, head of IFF, or Mr. Daei (better yet, lets just call him "KHALEH" instead of Daei !!!!), or Miroslav Blazevic. The list goes on and on. In the final analysis, our defeat at the hands of THAT ISLAND NATION is something we will not soon forget. A painful lesson in incompetence...lack of national pride.....and another year of discontent for us Iranians Respectfully yours;
How could someone who writes an article so foolish as Ms. Sana Aryamehr possibly
be fooled any more? [Can't
be fooled again] While there are valid reasons for criticizing Reza Pahlavi
and the Pahlavi Dynasty, this person's piece of writing does not rise above a piece
of garbage that will even be dismissed by the ayatollahs. Ms. Aryamehr has failed to read any news of events in Iran to see that Mr. Pahlavi's
support extends beyond the elite. Secondly, which group of Iranians were the earliest
victims of Mullahs? It was the officers and persons loyal to the Pahlavi regime.
How could you claim that they did not pay with blood for their cause? It was the
same suffered class of Iranians who rushed to defend the nation against Iraqi aggression
when mullahs and their leftist allies were busy killing and destroying the Iranian
culture and too busy trashing nationalism and our glorious past.
Regardiing your Noruz message [Heechkas tanhaa nees], I thought a lot and wondered as to what words I should compose next to each other to offer you as New Year's Greetings! ....So that it would be Spring-like!...and agreeable! In the early days of Spring my heart throbs for those who pass the New Year in solitude in their small and dim apartments in distant lands and one of their only source of joy is to pay a visit to Iranian.com! Iranian.com is a window to me!...so that from there I could honestly speak my heart to you and listen to the melodious echo of your words! I see through this window! I bestow my love and the breeze of my voice singing the ode to the Spring and to the solitude of your New Year and release it in the silence of your room! No one is alone! We are all together! Happy New Year!
I heard Farhad,
the singer, is in a bad health condition. Do you know what is his email or address
in Iran please. I would like to talk to him or may be help If I can. Thanks
This is just to let you know that last night OMID DJALILI won 'Best Comedian' at the prestigious EMMA AWARDS in London. Prior to winning he performed his stand-up show, while music was supplied by Liberty
X and The Lighthouse family. The show will be screened on BBC on Sunday 2nd. June
at 10.45pm GMT.
I used to be a regular contributor to iranian.com I went a bit quite around the time I felt the writers were no longer contributing positively to our national debates. Nowadays, some historical articles like "Helen of Tus" as well as pieces by Hadi Khorsandi and Saman are what brings me back to iranian.com on a regular basis. From your letters section we can see that there are multitude of views about past controversies. It will serve little constructive purpose to rehash old arguments. (In other words "in harfha vaseye Fati tomboon nemisheh") and worse make many readers switch off. I believe your article "Shah bee Shah" triggered a round of useless emotional language in the letter section. Though I thought I can appreciate your views and concerns about monarchies versus republics, it is unfortunate to see that the Iranians consider these systems at odds with each other, despite the fact that in the developed world, both systems are operating democraticly, and in the middle east both are behaving despotically. The key ingredients of democracy, secularism, human rights, and popular sovereigty that seperate Iran and the developed world seem to be lost in debates on your website. I believe as editor of iranian.com you can direct the articles and dicussions to promote consensus on these key issues. If promoting a republic as opposed to presenting a neutral view or continuing with the system of Shahanshahi is your preference that is fine also. Then the debates would be about whether the Iranian people should have the right to determine the form of government in an internationally observed National Referendum or not. I would like to leave you with an extract from an 18 page article published in Time Magazine dated June 3, 2002 It says:
It is only by scrutinising facts such as these numbers that Iranian republicans can hope to sway Iranian public opinion away from what we consider to be the golden epoch of economic progress and cultural tolerance under the Shahanshah Aryamehr stewardship, towards a continuation of an experiment with a republic in Iran, with or without it's religious component. Foul mouthing the Pahlavi regime with the same arguments that brought to power the Khomeini, Bani Sadr, Khatami's of this world are counter productive, and steer away your internet journal from it's noble aim of being a LIFE magazine for Iranian's.
I attach a photo from the time magazine, with thanks to Mr. Hakimi for scanning it, in the hope that it will find it's way to the top of your web site, and start a meaningful debate over the future of the Shahanshahi institution in Iran. After all, colourful monarchies, like movie stars and football teams are the core elements of the life of most societies and hence a regular feature LIFE magazine. Sincerely,
Back to the article -if it may be called so- named "From: Moe" with the author begging not to ask him why, i would like to ask YOU why? what is the point of publishing something like that. Someone who might be in a maniac episode and very active and sleepless writing pointless (though appreciated for not being rude, although in line with savak) letters to people and sending them to you and you putting them up on your website? what are you doing? I think this is the time for you to look back and see how much of a real editorial job you have been doing over the last few years. My understanding is that an editor -though cyber editor if you will, but still shouldn't be a ghost editor- has a JOB to do rather than just putting up everything that comes his way on a website. This could be done by a high school student these days not even a webmaster. I am serious, and don't get me wrong your initiative has been valuable or as they call it your "business model", but I am afraid you neither turned a millionaire nor a real EDITOR! what a business! I believe the least an editor is supposed to do is to stop what in english is called verbal diarrhea. People may not now what is good for publication or what is offensive or more importantly what is against the law of that land or international law and so forth. an editor should take care of that part and still after that start being an editor and use his or her professional skills and knowledge and initiative. I think you need some more professional training -as you have gained some experience but seem to be working like a worn out oil filter: leaking constantly OR letting everything in (don't start that discretion with my letter)! If I were you I would consider this advice one of the most valuable ones you have received in a while as I am reviewing your site from the past times. You look like reeling to me between extremes and might have called this reeling an initiative (no-aavari in persian) but wrong, you are just gijo-veej and hitting one to naal and one to meekh. This is not innovation, this is nadaanam-kaari. Hope you won't need to hear from me anymore.
Hope you and your princess are doing well. I had a chance to read your weight loss pieces today [Kopol vs. Topol III]. About two years ago, when I inquired about you, someone mentioned that you are getting big. I was hoping he meant it in a different way!! Topol reminded me of an old Persian saying about eating habits. It goes like this: Eat your breakfast alone, Share your lunch with a friend, Give your dinner to your enemy. I am sure you know that putting food in our body during night time will stick in there for good as compare to food eaten in the early part of the day that will get digested. Asrar-e Khorakiha and Aajaz-e Khorakiha by Dr. Jazayeri are good sources of information. (Here is a tip from the latter: Eating grapes during mornings causes weight loss and during night causes weight gain). Exercise is fine, but change in life style (in this case in eating habit - or eating time) is a better solution. (Look who is talking! If my daughter was here, I would be Topoli too @154lb). Good luck in your endeavor. Eradatmand, Hossein
I'm looking for information on an ancient Iranian icepit, called a Yakh Chal.I have been searching on the internet for some,but haven't had any luck,so I decided to write you.I would greatly appreciate any information you could send me.thanks,
I stumbled on your site and decided to gif a look. It appears you guys are carefree and gay. Do you prefer to be called persian or iranian? I see you advertise law offices. Fariba should have a logo. Two arms in the air one missing a hand. The slogan could be "We win some We lose some". On the other hand you could be good guys in disguise. But if you went to the berkely valley be carefull. I hear it is the only part of Lebanon controlled by hezbully. I have to go now and take my FBI test in Arabic. I hope there are no trick questions in Farsi. Until we meet again in safer times keep your eyes and your powder dry. Your best new friend in America. Abutom Rasuli of the big apple keeper of the royal flame (mrs.flame) exhaulted himom (high mom!) New York Super Waqbah Allah Bless America
I'm a French writer and i am acutally working on Nazak Pahlavi who was the daughter
of hamid Reza Pahlavi, the little brother of the last shah.
Hello Wa-na-be Mr. Pure Aryan, [Warm
Friday]
Dear friends, I would like to introduce to you the result of many months of painstaking, professional, and breathtaking work by a very good friend of mine, Mr. Ahmad Kiarostami. This is a new site on Iranian culture and arts - Persopedia: //www.persopedia.org/ In its initial phase, fully Boolean-searachable poetry volumes by Hafez, Sa'adi, Molavi, Khayyam, and Baba Taher have been put online. All of Hafez's poems even have voice recitation in realaudio. This site is truly a source of pride for Iranians everywhere, and I am sure you will agree with me after visiting it. Thank you and regards,
This letter is in response to Ms. Setareh Sabety's invitation in a so called:
[Need a baby
sitter?]: We, Reza Pahlavi, King of the Kings, Behtar Az Deegaraan Mc Lane Palace, Virginia
Mansoor Lotfi, [One-way ticket ] In your enthusiastic fit of loyalty to your new-found country of citizenship, you write: "We Iranian(s) have a long history of betraying our own people and our friends". No amount of anger, no matter how justified, and regardless of whether it is the result of humiliation and unjust imprisonment you may have suffered at the hands the anti-democratic regime of Iran -- assuming it is not some fabrication designed to justify your broadside -- can give you the license to utter such patently false statements which is an affront to all Iranians and Iranian-Americans including Setreh Sabety, who stand for justice, decency, peace, and freedom. What is utterly beyond your comprehension is that people like Setareh Sabety, even in their mistakes, stand head and shoulder above puny people like you, who view the world through narrow prism of personal self-interest alone. Setareh's mistake is the error of passionate conviction in defense of all that is good and just in America, and which is personified by the generosity of which you are a beneficiary, and which is being distorted and destroyed in the name of American people by a handful. Thank God there are still such people around to give voice to all that is good and decent at a time when speaking the truth could be costly, unconcerned about making mistakes and, what is more, ready to learn from them. Setareh Sabety may have made a mistake, but it is a mistake that in no way detracts from her principled stand on the Arab-Israeli conflict, and unlike you, she will never stoop so low as to condemn an entire people to win brownie points. The world according to you can be summed up as -- me and my BMW! I think if you were a person of principles and convictions, you would write a retraction and an apology, and show the readership that you are mature enough to learn from your mistakes. If your were to do that, I am willing to believe that your statement was nothing more than youthful enthusiasm run amuck. Sincerely;
Ms. Sabety, [No walls] I love you. Well, I should rephrase that. I don't know you personally from Eve, but I love that you exist. I just stumbled across your Aug 13th column in the Iranian and felt compelled to write. I'm always interested to read of the experiences of immigrants to this country since as the grandson of incredibly brave men and women I was never allowed the gift of choosing America. I sometimes wonder if I would have had the courage to make your choice. Be thankful it's a question you don't have to answer. I love America because I was born and raised here. You chose this chaotic, energetic, argumentative and ultimately civic space out of conviction and principle. It's something I truly envy. I urge you to think of this on the next occasion during these turbulent times that you're tempted to wonder what your adopted country thinks of it's residents and citizens from another shore. David Johannson,
I find it ironic that many especially the so called Americans that responded to
Setareh Sabety's essay regarding her disapproval of US policies pertaining to the
Israeli and Palestanian coflict failed to rebuttle her on her main point and instead
focused on just the title of her essay. [Today,
I am a Palestinian] The silly suggestion to those citizens that voice out their concern to just forfeit
the taxes, and many other contributions that they have made into the system and walk
away from it by moving out of US is as undemocratic as you can get. In fact those that question our supposed just war by suggesting that perhaps we
should look at what we could have done or more importantly what we continue to do
that provokes such hatred are labeled as "coward pacifists" or the old
label "liberals". And of course those like Ms. Sabety that oppose our unconditional
support for Israel are labeled as "anti-semitic" or "anti-democratic",
not too mention even "Anti-American" by some of the readers in this site.
I read Mr. Lofti's response to Ms Sabeti's article [One-way
ticket ] about Palestine [Today,
I am a Palestinian] and I think he makes several fine points. I think that
the events of 9/11 and the backlash towards Iranians may have affected our views
about the country in which many of us now live -- America.
Would you recommend a teacher in new York City who would be able to come to my home and teach me to speak Farsi. If you do not know one, could you suggest where I might look to find one. Thank you,
Mr. Zahedi, [Muy bonito] FYI, Osama is persona non-grata in Saudi Arabia because he has called for the overthrow of the Saudi monarchy. If you're really interested in knowing who "bred and raised" Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban, the answer is: the CIA.
Dear Iranian, and Mr. Lotfi, [One-way ticket ] In short thank you for your wonderful reply to those ungrateful Iranians, Middle Easterners, Muslims etc.... who take advantage of the great resources here and then sit back complain, never contribute and like back stabbers put a knife in the back of this great land America by spreading hate and distrust of the system.... I have one thing to say to them all: "Namak Nashnaasi ham hadi daare" Dear Ms. Sabety, [Today, I am a Palestinian] I respect your opinion and would stand by your right to freely express your thoughts and yes I do not like what I see in Israel and Palestine also... however both parties are to blame here and some one like Arafat who has proved over and over not to be worthy of leadership is far more too blame than the US ever could be. Many Israelis and Jews in the world too dislike the fanatics like Sharon but at least Sharon is correct that some one or some groups are training young innocent and frustrated Palestinian youths with the methods needed for blowing themselves up, this may be a political tool but honestly what kind of extreme fringe madness of a roadmap is this....Can this be a viable solution? I mean to destroy the lives of these innocent kids and the lives of the many innocent Israeli bystanders to score political points.... This martyr mentality encouraged by the likes of the Iranian Islamic regime/ Hizbullah and Al-Qaidah and Hamas in the end fails to score any points. One can fight for freedom through legitimate protest, struggle and dialogue not by barbaric self-destruction and killing. And when Arafat and the PA are willing to expend their children and the lives of any human it becomes very clear that greed and self interest is the primary objective not the Palestinian cause. And by the way I feel that Palestinian cause is a legitimate one and Israel needs to recognize that as well. So as Iranian-Americans we can repay our debt to our new home the United States of America by mobilizing, educating and encouraging policy change like other immigrant groups and not by giving up, name calling and harboring hate for the US. We like any other group in the US can make an impact. And first of all let's fight for reform and moderation in Iran and worry about the Arab/Israeli issue and other problems through the grass roots groups and organizations that are already in place and active in the US.
Dear Setareh, [Need a baby sitter?] I reed the RP and Banoo and loved it :) Did he stop by or what? Keep up with good work :) Sincerely, Oscar
Can the virtuous mullahs of Iran ever make any foreign policy statements that don't drip with hypocrisy? Here's Khatami's latest regarding Iran's "axis of evil" status. "When a big power uses a militant, humiliating and threatening tone to speak to us, our nation will refuse to negotiate or show any flexibility." Excuse me, but America has endured 20 years of being labeled "The Great Satan", repeated calls for our destruction, and our flag burned on the streets of Iran. I don't agree with the "axis of evil" comment, but is this any way for a civilized nation to behave? Why would any U.S. politician want to have anything to do with a country that continually insults us? The label did expose the Achilles heel of the mullahs though: criticism. They absolutely cannot stand the tables being turned on them, and despite their public bellowing, they've privately made a lot of moves to reign in Hezbollah and proceed with caution.
In reference to Ms. Sabety's 3 May editorial "Today, I am a Palestinian": Ms. Sabety should be aware if her citizenship oath "is not worth the paper it is written on" and if she indeed "wish[es she] had never become an American", her oath is not irrevocable. She can and should renounce her American citizenship under the circumstances. Directions on doing so can be located at: //travel.state.gov/pr_renun.html. Ms. Sabety should also contemplate why it is that if Israel has transformed into Nazi Germany, as she claims, that the Israelis have made a regular practice of releasing the vast majority of detained Palestinians within a few hours or days of arrest. She should be aware that the usual Nazi approach for dealing with Jews did not involve any effort to identify those engaged in resistance. The Nazis favored a mix of systematic slaughter with slave labor camps where inmates typically died or were killed within months. George Schneiderman
Is it possible to post this? I'm looking for a Farsi teacher in Chicago or Northwest Indiana, to meet once a week or several times a month. Thanks very much,
Do you know who this person is and if she is Iranian?
As a matter of habit I do not send my replies to individuals who have attacked my writings to Iranian.com's comment section [Taa abad]. However, to be perfectly honest the mischievous part of me was accounting on Mr. Najdi and a few others to blast me. [So-called poem fails to be a poem] Let me explain why. I had memorized a few e-mails from people who had blasted me a few months ago in response to my comments that "my man has teeth like emeralds" or "I wish I was a cab and got picked up with bunch of women in it" was not poetry. They called me names and said I did not understand the concept of modern artistry and used foul language to scare me. I happened to find out that they had done the same to a few other readers who had criticized the lady's poem. So those gang members fail to get the best of me and I simply ignored their comments such as "you suck". I do not know what language Mr. Najdi speaks but to the best of my recollection as a person who attends many Iranian cultural functions the words mazhar aramesh is used all the time. Mazhar symbolizes the ultimate expression. Also, tamana is a widely used word in Persian language as well. Perhaps he does not use the word "raze eshgh" and instead prefers to use "secret of my loving". I also find it fascinating that some of us Iranian just analyze and draw a complete conclusion about a person without knowing them personally. If this gentleman knew anything about me (I am well known in the community that I live because of my dedication to work on behalf of many Iranian cause or organizations) he would never assume that I "attempted" to write this piece. I am one of the most natural and spontaneous human beings and therefore, only write or do things that do not require effort on my part. I truly believe in the Persian expression that "har anche keh azz dell bar ayad barr dell nesheenad". I do not try to use my educational background to use the correct technique. I simply write what is on my mind and that goes for the articles or stories I write as well. I am not looking for seal of approval from anybody. I simply wanted to share my feelings and have received many beautiful and encouraging comments form readers. I have tremendous respect for contrasting point of views and find them quite refreshing and challenging. However, let's keep our personal frustrations out of what we write and genuinely address what we do not like instead of resorting to such idiotic remarks like "off the wall attempts". If Mr. Najdi is ever fortunate enough to get out of his castle of empty intellectual words, he may discover as one American who happens to have a degree in English Literature wrote to me (in response to one of my articles):The best writings are those that are inspired by true feelings. You can feel their pain and joy. Lighten up Mr. Najdi and simply enjoy a person's expression of her feelings. I am not your student and for your information in my college days in Iran many of my professors thought my poems were from the heart and encouraged me to write more. Your opinion does not matter but I did not want to ignore you because, I did not want you to think that you or you kind can scare me easily.
I would like to say a few words about a poem I ran into tonight by Azam Nemati, named "Taa abad". I usually read your poetry and literature section and consider myself to be a Persian literary enthusiast. I was astounded to find such an insult to our literature after centuries of the highest quality poetry. Ms. Nemati's so-called poem fails to be a poem at all for several reasons... it doesn't even fit the "Classical" or "No-ghodamaaii" category. It obviously lacks imagination and creativity, there are out-dated expressions that have literally vanished or should vanish from the face of modern poetry: "Mazhare Aramesh", "Tamannaye Daroon", "Raaze Eshgh", "Sher-e masti", and etc. These ultra-sentimental and superficial expressions weigh nothing on the reader's mind and even worse they do not trigger an ounce of emotion! Additionally, this piece does not belong to any poetic genre, it's not classical or traditional, there are off the wall attemps to create rhymes which are just pathetic such as "nahayat" and "hasrat"... and no "mizane arouzi" or harmony of verses in terms of rythme and number of syllabi....and it's obviously not a modern or contemporary piece due to it being devoid of a language, theme, or form that would resonate with this century or even the previous one... In all sincerity, I would ask of all poetry enthusiasts not to mistake their appreciation of literature with actual "talent". Best Regards to you all,
Dear Moe, [From:
Moe] I was already a fan of your cartoons
and now am looking forward to see more of your writings as well.
Mansoor Jan, I read your article "One-way ticket". I can't help wonder if you are going to buy the one-way ticket from your own pocket or do they allow you to expense it. It seems to me that the hospitality and refuge that has been offered to you by the American government has not been all that free and from the goodness of their heart after all, if you are willing to ride off an individual who simply feels differently from you about the US foreign policies. With this kind of attitude, we don't need Jews or Arabs to be our enemy we are doing a pretty good job at it ourselves. But on a more serious notes, I wonder why is it that so many of us are so quick to resort to insult or wish to eliminate the other side just because they have a different view points on things. I read so many articles by Iranians on this site by that is either full of insult or they want to kick the opposition out of this country. God knows what they would do if they actually had any power. As a person who has been subjected to torture and imprisonment by a dictator regime, I would have hoped that at least you would have more appreciation for an open dialog and logic. Also, I often wonder why is it that so many of us (and perhaps you) hate Arabs so passionately. Is it because of Palestinians cheering during Iraqi invasion of Iran, or perhaps we blame the current regime on them? And then I wonder how many of these "Arab haters" took arms and fought in that war (I did and there is not one ounce in me that was pro regime) or how do they feel about the US role in that conflict and all the support that the US government gave to Iraq (I have a coworker/friend here that flew reconnaissance flight for Iraqis during the Iran-Iraq war). And about the current regime in Iran, I feel so many of us are sitting here in the comfort of our homes in broad and we say "lengesh kon" what happened to take responsibility for our own action, wasn't it us that allowed the "Akhonda" to become so powerful? So, I know that our hate for Arabs has a deeper root, however I don't think hate is the answer. So I like to ask, does the cheering of Palestinians some 10 years ago, justify the humiliation, murder and occupation that is being brought to them by Israelis? And finally, in your article you claim to be Iranian yet a devoted US citizen, and I can't help wonder, which side are you going to be on if and when US attacks Iran? After all, you swear to take arms for US during your ceremony, didn't you? Sincerely,
Ms. Nedjat, [There are many philanthropists around]
Merci baraaye website binazir, baa vojood inhameh moshkelaate maali, site shomaa
har rouz behtar va behtar mishavad, marhabaa va dast khodaa be hamraah. [Dear
Solitary Donor]
Hi there, [Dear Solitary Donor] I just want to extend my appreciation for the great job and service you guys have been doing for our community. I have decided to send all my donations (not a whole lot) that typically goes to PBS and NPR. I will also make a donation each time Mrs. Setareh Sabaty publishes a politically or socially motivated article. I enjoy her work tremendously, wheatear I agree with it or not. So many thanks to all of you.
I just finished reading Mr. Hamid Akbari's "Icon of democracy". Simply put Dr. Mossadegh helped Iran a lot. The Pahlavi Dynasty will go down in history as the most barbaric family in the history of Iran. Both Reza Shah and Mohammed Reza Shah arrested Mossadegh. For that fact alone
the Pahlavi family should never be able to return to Iran. Peyman Allen Alagheband
I am a little bit disapointed with the people who use the cause and effect logical reasoning to prove their own point of view but fail to follow the rule completely in regards to someone elses opinon [One-way ticket]. If a person has been granted visa or permission to stay in the United States it is reasonable for that person to admire the United States for giving him/her a refuge. This follows the cause and effect rule. But, the same person gives himself/herself the right to tell someone else to obtain a one way ticket and leave this place if she/he is not happy with being an American. First of all, if a person chooses not be an American for one day, that is her/his choice, it does not mean she/he has to leave the states. If U.S is the place were there is a freedom of experssion, then every person has the right to say what they believe in. If I am unhappy with the U.S foreign policy, I will choose to say I am not proud to be an American. May be, the poor foreign policy practices of the U.S has caused me to express my displeasure with being an American. That is my choice. I may or may not want to leave and who the heck is anyone to tell me to get a one way ticket. As long as I shall live, I will try my best to influence a change through peacefull means. BTW, the reason most of us Iranian-American are here in the U.S can be traced to the fact that our nationalist prime minister whom by the way wanted monrachy to remain but not rule was overthrown by then again wrong foreign policy of U.S. Dr. Mosadegh was not able to continue with his reforms to build a democratic society for Iran, where most of us would like to have stayed if we had the choice. So, I will say this once, just because you get a paycheck here, it doesn't mean you have to kiss their ass. Farzod S
Scrolling down the page reading Mr. Akbari's article [Icon of democracy], I thought here we go again. Yet another person blinded by hero worship and blessed with wilful ignorance. When I got to the end of the article I was surprised (only mildly) that the writer is apprently an academic. I have no quarrel with Mosaddegh being portrayed as a patriot fighting for Iranian independence. But an 'Icon of Democracy' he is not. Mr. Akbari's reference to documents demonstrating Mossadegh to have been the most popularly elected Iranian leader stems either from ignorance or wishful thinking. Mossadegh was not elected democratically to the post of Prime Minister. He was appointed by the Shah. Mossadegh probably had a great deal of support in the Majlis but that would hardly make him a democratically elected leader. A person does not become an icon of democracy just because we admire him. Especially a person like Mossadegh who proceeded to suspend the Majlis when it no longer was as cooperative as necessary. And really, comparing Mossadegh with the likes of Mandela and Gandhi or Martin Luther King is just plain stupid. Perhaps this is testament to the dearth of great political and moral figures in the recent history of Iran. Mossadegh was much closer to Nasser of Egypt or numerous Third World nationalists who came after him in that period of time. Mossadegh's fight was on a much more limited moral landscape than the personalities mentioned by Mr. Akbari. The likes of Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. fought on a scale of morality much more vast than the standard nationalistic, at times cynical, 'liberation movement' type of struggle led by Dr. Mossadegh. I would still call him a patriot, but never a democrat.
Dear Iranian.com (I mean, of course, you the person, but I know you more as iranian.com....if you know what I mean...), [Dear Solitary Donor] What to say or do in response to your editorial? I cannot follow the example of the person who went to Tashkent, because the second or third or fourth cannot be the first. That is, he who takes the first step, alone, cannot gather other first-steppers around him, only (perhaps courageous) followers. I cannot trump her gesture by being incredibly magnanimous, because my wife and I have decided those groups and causes that need our help the most right now, and (forgive me) you don't quite "make the cut". I cannot offer my services pro bono on a regular basis, as I am trying to serve my family, an international charity, a local facility our church built, a national non-profit that is just getting off the ground...oh, and my regular job (almost forgot). All that I can do is to offer the following: 1. The assurance that there are MANY who feel that the website you run is of truly superb quality -- informative, bold, varied, and comprehensive, and who await each edition with real anticipation, even if other demands mean that we can only glance at it quickly and then move on. 2. A standing offer that if you are ever in my neighborhood (downtown DC weekdays, Columbia, MD the rest of the time), lunch is on me.
It was very nice of you to thank the person who contributes to your site monthly [Dear Solitary Donor]. Even I was touched by it!!!! It shows your soft side. :o) As for the guilt trip...yes...I did feel guilty for a moment, but then realized that I, like you have money problems. Hopefully one day I can afford to contribute to your site, but for now, I thought atleast a Thank You is in order. I have to say that I never would have met such interesting people and learned so much about our culture if it were not for your site. I may not agree with everything posted on your site, but that's the beauty of it. It makes it that much more interesting. We Iranians are a rainbow. :o) Thank You! Dalia
Dear Mr. Javid, [Dear Solitary Donor] For many many years, I used to contribute much to our local PBS station every year. I liked many of the programs they had on the air, and I thought I owed the funds to them as my share of the enjoyment and information I was getting from that operation. What I have recently found is rather disheartening. The PBS system as a whole, and our local station, have been spending money like a "drunken sailor." They must be paying outrageous sums to themselves and people who were performing the programs. What I had considered a public supported organization for public's good, has turned into an organization supporting Hollywood characters' lifestyles that no one else is willing to pay for, and who think they have access to a deep pocket. I wised up, and I concluded that every business has, and must operate, in two sides of the balance sheet: Revenues, and Expenses. These people at the local PBS station (and the national PBS operations) only wanted us, the viewers, as participants in the revenue side; and they would tell us nothing about the expense side. What happens to the funds that the viewers voluntarily contribute, such as how they are spent, was never discussed and no detail was provided to the viewers (i.e., the people who would paying the bills.) In addition, it looked like the PBS system was doing as much advertising, albeit in a different form, as the commercial stations. After viewing a couple of terrible programs (with a lot of advertising, in a no commercial station) which were based on some stupid reporter's ideas and conclusions (all factually wrong, in my learned opinion), I concluded that I wanted no part of a partnership between PBS and myself in which I am only a "patsy;" you know, "give me your money, and I will do good with it" type of operation. After reading your piece in iranian.com [Dear Solitary Donor], I remembered the same experience. Contribution of a few dollars a month, as far as I am concerned, is a small change, provided that the readers are not categorized as the "patsies" for your or your organization's goals, who are only good to give money, and you do your thing, whatever that is. I suggest that if you want to receive donations of cash from readers as your supporters and partners to operate iranian.com, you should be frank and honest with them and give the readers (me as an example) the exact detail of the operations, on both sides of the equation. Readers cannot (and should not) fund your wishes, aspirations, and your political ideals and or ambitions. It does not work that way. Good luck to you.
You need to call the men in the white coat to take this imbecile away and lock him up for good. [What are men made of?] What hole has he been living in? If that is his idea of a joke then, it is a very stupid one. What girl in the right mind will want to talk to a looser that will settle with "e-mails"? This is an insult to Iranian women and God is my witness if I find out his identity I will have his ass kicked for being so stupid. Iranian men are too intelligent (even the uneducated ones) to come up with such absurd request.
Dear Jahanshah, That was a nice gesture on your part [Dear Solitary Donor]. Humbleness is the best quality in any person. You showed how humble you are. That is indeed commendable. You are doing a fantastic job & you deserve some kind of a reward. If it takes place with a cash, so much the better. How else one can show his/her appreciation to your dedication & hard work, from afar? You should be proud of your work. Ok. you get some criticism once in a while, but that is a part of the game. Nobody is immune to criticism, even GOD him/her self. Wish you long life, good health & success in keeping up the Iranian on the net. Yours,
I read another short story of a new writer in Iranian.com called "Nima". The first story by him that I read in Iranian.com was "Sarhangaane tareeghat". This is to let you know that I really enjoy reading this new writer short stories. His stories are well structured, short and effective. Mr. Payam Rafighi knows how to use right words in right times in his short stories. Although he seems to be a young man, but he has some deep roots in the Iranian culture. I hope we see more of him in Iranian.com Regards,
Dear Dr. Akbari, [Icon of democracy] I do not know who you are, and if you have first hand knowledge of who Mossadegh really was and what he did (actually, what he did not do). But calling Mossadegh an "icon of democracy" is a slap in the face of the entire democratic movement in the world. This guy's entire period of prime minister-ship was done under "marshal law," and consisted of beating, intimidating and killing opposition; his own street demonstrations with the support of "club holding" street gangs (ask Shaaban!), and finally closing of Majles, the same Majles that he himself had organized its elections, and the same Majles that had voted for his prime minister-ship, and without whose vote he could not gain that position. Even Shaaban Jafari in his recent book confesses that he was originally one of Mossadegh's thugs to beat up his political oppositions. Mossadegh was a disgrace, and was responsible for not only the demise of the great nation of Iran, but perhaps the entire unfortunate outcome of the middle east politics over the past five decades. He was the first one who founded the politics of "blame some one else for your mistakes" in Iran, and it was spread to other Middle East politicians who took it to heart. He is the one, I argue, who taught the Nasser of Egypt, and the rest of the rising Arab politicians, the politics of demagoguery, and in turn caused the entire Palestine to go down the drain because of Nasser's stupidity. Nasser, like Mossadegh, did not understand that demagoguery could not last forever, and the lies and exaggerations hidden in them would finally surface. Fortunately for Iran, Mossadegh's outside "enemies" were nations who had better sense and understandings of the world than to hold the entire population responsible for acts of a "nut" as prime minister. Egypt, and the rest of the Arab world, were not that lucky: Nasser's outside enemy was Israel. You have called Mossadegh an "exemplary leader," I assume because you do not understand the meaning of leadership. Otherwise, how is it that an exemplary leader pushes an ancient and wealthy country into bankruptcy in less than two years taking office, and at a time that most Iranians did not have enough food to eat, and were dying from all sorts of diseases in thousands, including Malaria? Your comparison of Mossadegh with Thomas Jefferson is the most outrageous, and shows your lack of knowledge of personality of neither men. You must not know who Thomas Jefferson was, otherwise you could not possibly compare him with Mossadegh. As I indicated earlier, and the history has recorded, Mossadegh's 27 month rule was accompanied by Marshal Law, closing of Majles, and beating and killings of opposition, among many other non democratic initiatives he and his cohorts made. May be you can clarify how these acts compare with similar Jeffersonian actions? Regarding Nationalization of the Oil Industry, I remind you that Mossadegh was the one who ONLY cut off the flow of oil, while speaking of nationalization; the real nationalization of oil industry did not come until later, when the stable government in Tehran took some control of the oil flow, and entered into reasonable contracts with oil companies. It was after that initiatives that formation of OPEC was possible, and nationalization of oil reserves in the rest of the Middle East and elsewhere took place. I sure hope that you are better prepared in your subject of teaching than you are in writing historic pieces for inter-net magazines. It is disheartening to see that Chairman of a Management Department of a U.S. University cannot separate real democratic activity and statesmanship from a fraud like Mossadegh. Talk of management reminds me that Mossadegh's management style (if you could call sleeping in his bed under a blanket all the time a management style!) was so bad that he could not even pay government workers and state obligations for months at a time. Regarding Mossadegh's leadership capabilities: it is suffice to say that he could not select and keep coworkers with even slightest knowledge and understanding of what they are supposed to do. I am sure you know some of his political partners by now: his "closest" political partners were the politicians who delivered Iran to a bunch of illiterate mullahs in 1979, including Bazargan, Sahabi, Sanjabi, Foruhar, etc., etc. These, and their new help, are the same people who are still fighting for recognition, 23 years after being given the government in "silver plate". These people are not even convinced that they did anything wrong; they do not understand the magnitude of the damage they have inflicted on this ancient country. These are things that I know for a fact; what do you know for a fact? I suggest that you write only about subjects that you know!
Dear S.M., [What
are men made of?] Abusers generally do not admit to their wrongdoing and therefore I doubt you will hear from true abusers. Many abusers watched their mothers get beaten up by their fathers. It is the only model they ever saw for conflict resolution.
Dear S.M. For a while, I even thought that American women loved to be treated badly. I do not want to blame it on the women. I just have to tell you that I have had some really nice male friends who were single for a long time and could not find a mate due to their non-aggressive personalities, inability to earn large sum of money, or their average physical appearances. Again, I don't blame these women but I also don't feel sorry for them either. They chose to marry these psycos for whatever reason. Be careful in finding your mate. Learn from these people's mistakes and make a right choice.
Those people you saw are not Iranian, they are Iranian-American and there is a
great distance to be Iranian like me, and being Iranian-American like them. I don't
want to say that there are no abusive men in today's' Iran; yes there are plenty
of them but beside those we have got so many nice men, family men. It is not right
to stereotype people. Being Iranian does not mean to be abusive. We are a nation
of roughly 80 million people and among as there are goods as well as bad ones.
You are not "geda" my dear Jahanshah ["Dear Solitary Donor"]. Since you signed to your readers, "Love, Jahanshah." I allow myself to call you "my dear." You are not begging like a "geda," you are "Fundraising." We must somehow adapt to this new culture of civil society, campaigning, and fundraising. I know it's hard when it comes into acting it out. Do you remember the old days? What the wonderful meaningful gesture of the Iranian saying used to be expressed by people who had a lot of dignity? I used to hear about someone who had a lot of pride to become aggressive enough to ask for his promotion rights from the boss. Migoftand, "Baa sili sourate khodesho sorkh negah midaare." Well my dear those days are over. We read your page that you have made available to us, working 12 to 15 hours a day. I know you must enjoy it very much. But, who is going to pay for the bills? You either have to keep making us feel guilty not to be the "free riders" or you have to apply for a big chunk of grant so you can at least pay yourself. I hope you read my essay report that I wrote about "How to own your NGO." There are many philanthropists around. Why don't you ask Mr. Pier Omidyar? I remember when I was living in the East Coast there were many articles written in the "Iranian" publication that he likes to help out the Iranian community. I You should not feel guilty asking our fellow Iranian-American to help the community, after all, we are a recent immigrants and it will take a while before we adapt and assimilate into this new culture. I am a sociologist and I truly believe in consciousness raising among the local community. Our locality pertains to be the reader of your page. And, you are doing a great job. I as an Iranian-American am proud of you bright dedicated education lovers. Well, I guess praising you with words doesn't work. My check is on its way. I remain, Your Dedicated Reader -- Fatima Farideh Nedjat, M.A.
Dear S.M., ["What are men made of?"] Let me introduce myself. I am Behnam 23(almost 24) and it has been 1 year that I have been here pursuing my studies here in UCLA. Sorry if there are mistakes in my English. I read your article in Iranian.com and telling the truth I was very offended. I think that in analyzing any problem or question especially the ones related to social relationships it is very bad to make zero one decisions or statements. although as you say it is a very common and shameful act among men to beat their partner but you should never look at things black and white. first of all I think that more than education family that a person is grown is more important and more than that the way that a person develops his/her mind and thoughts. Among my many friends that I have had in Iran and here in US I see very few that even let themselves to think about using force against their partner. Adding to all this I think that if not half of the problem a large portion of the problem goes back to women themselves if you don't fight for your own rights and if you don't value them men won't! if you were in Iran you could say that the rules are again women and that is true the rules in Iran are extremely biased toward men. but here in states. I think giving reasons like he would follow me or my son are not good enough. As a person if I am in relationship with someone the first minute that I see any acts from her (in case of women this can be him) that I feel is inappropriate I wouldn't bear it. I think that as parents and specially mothers you should teach your children to be powerful and don't let others force them anything. this others can be parents friends boyfriend, classmate anything. although I am completely against these acts by men and I am partly ashamed of their act but I also blame women who are victims of those acts. So I think that at the end of your next article not only ask for men who beat their wives for their comments but ask the women who are beaten by their partner to explain the reasons I think that this way a whole new prospective would arise. Thanks
Dorood,
If I looked very hard in the whole world I could not find bigger lies. [Response to what article?] This is written by an asshoile jew looking for his whore mother under the banner of freedom. Choosing the right mate is the first principle of happiness. Under the banner of freedom, the White man killed all the Americannatives,demolished their culture, stole all their land, stripped them of any human rights (forced treaties), enslaved all the Blacks , put all Japanese(American born) in prison camps (of cource we are fighting the Germans, but no German was arrested or put in prison like the Jananese -American). In Mexico all the native where totaly smashed and they were robbed of every thing ( land, culture, heritage, religionand history) ,and in south Ameria and Africa the CRIMES are unspeakable. Is this what you want a world Westernman justice, it is only for the WASPs not for you stupid. Get wise hang on to your culture and make it better.
That was a great piece! ["What are men made of?"] It's sad how some Iranians just seem to feel obligated to ruining the image of other Iranians and men who don't have enough integrity to keep their fists to themselves when it comes to their loved ones or women in general. But you must also realize a few things. One of them being that most women who end up in abusive relationships, have some sort of psychological issues themselves. It's not like they saw the guy get angry and were afraid to leave. Most of the time, they're attracted to that sort of attitude. It's sad, but very true. Most men surely don't hit their women on the first date or within the first few weeks or months of knowing them. If these women end up with abusive men, that shows that they have a problem with analyzing people's personalities and they have a hard time finding or attracting decent men. Which in and of itself could mean that mabye they need to make certain improvements to their way of life or the places where they go to meet guys. Now, if all of you are having that problem then all of you need to really do some soul-searching and think about the places where you go and why you've gotten attracted to those men in the first place. But, to deny yourself of the right to analyze and simply feel sorry for yourself and your friends, and choose to run from any Iranian man you meet, is a very weak solution. That's just running away from the issue. See what the problem is? Has it ever occured to you that maybe your friends find some strange sick comfort in being abused? It's true, many abused women do feel that way. They automatically get attracted to guys who abuse them. So, you don't want an abuse husband, boyfriend, then rethink your dating strategies and where you go to meet guys. God Bless,
Ba salam, ["Dear
Solitary Donor"]
You know what? It was about time for you to start complaining! ["Dear Solitary Donor"] You are right! We--all 159,999 of us--are full of hot air! I for one have been reading this publication quite a bit. I do find it a free forum of expression, which for any Iranian affiliated entity is quite a mouthful. On occasion I have written in response to things I have read here, and eerily you published an article I wrote about Afghanistan on Aug. 30, 2001 ["Too much time to think"], only twelve days before it was ominously the day when the chickens unattended since Bush seniors days, came back home to roost and lay that big ugly egg in New York! I feel it matters what we think. I think it matters that you publish our expressions and thoughts. I think in all this time I made one donation to this publication. So, it is time for us to not just pretend we are a community and become one. I pay my local public radio on time, why not do the same with the one place that has given my desperate Iranian side a voice! If I do not start contributing regularly, please feel free to bug the bejeeberz out of me to get on the ball! We can not and should not lose our voice. Do not let it go to you head, but you have given a lot of us a voice. Do not publish my name. It depletes all the sincerely from my comments. I will just pay my dues! Take care and remember, sometime begging is the noblest way of existence. Gothama Buddha did it, why not JJ?...
Mrs. S.M., ["What
are men made of?"]
This in response to your newspaper's recent coverage of the South Asian conflict [They are coming]: In the conflict between India and Pakistan we have been hearing a lot about Pakistan's support of the Kashmiri militants. Militarily weak separatist movements do once in a while need outside help to throw off the subjugators. How else are you supposed to get yourself free when the party enslaving you is not letting you have any power to fight? Didn't the US seek France's help in getting rid of the British? The core of the problem is not cross-border terrorism (as Indians would like the world to believe) but India's suppression of the Kashmiris that in turn has resulted in widespread discontent. Is the world willing to address the underlying problem of this conflict? Am I ever going back to an independent Republic of Kashmir? |
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