May 6, 2008 Journal Entry

Susan lands in Iran

This morning we got a sense, from CNN watching members of our delegation, that the roller coaster of relations between the US and Iran is currently rushing toward increased tension.

Today we walked through the colorful, bustling bazaar, the Shiraz gardens and ate at a traditional restaurant with live music.

Often, constantly, people watch us with curiosity. I can't read emotions well across our cultures, but I think I also see longing. Sometimes these people ask where we are from; sometimes we initiate conversation with folks who are more shy. Everyone understands when we explain that we are from the United States and their amazement is obvious. We show our buttons, which say in Farsi that we are peace advocates and typical responses are, "Good! This is Good!" "You Like Iran?" "Have a good trip!" "Photo?" I have never before been asked to be in so many photos--I'm beginning to think I'm a superstar!

Probably I won't learn much about Iran's relationships with Hezbollah or Iraqi dissident groups while I'm in country. Counter-revolutionary talk costs more here than I dare ask. If the powerful people of the U.S. believe that only violent force can solve problems between us, how do my memories of adorable children, who would suffer, stack up?

I hope--I believe--that if more of us refuse to call the people of Iran "enemy," if more of us eat the amazing food and respect the ruins of Persepolis, if we hold the people of Iran in our hearts and prayers, our governments must come to a table to discuss our mistrust and disagreements.

My tears today have not been from dust, but from grief, from knowing the people I meet--who have my photo on their refrigerator--are people who desperately want peace.