Iranians are a sentimental nation, a fact that could be used against the accusations of terrorism. Yes, we do have criminals, but what nation doesn’t? And yes, like all mankind, we become involved in a variety of wrongdoings. However, to picture the children of Hafez and Rumi capable of major terrorism, or fear their atomic destruction of the Earth they worship, is a stretch of imagination. 3,000 years of history supports my view. Each time Persia was invaded, it ended the war with embracing the enemy, its people adapted to a new language and culture, and many married the enemy [...]

My novel Sky of Red Poppies was meant to be a legacy to my children. I wanted to take these three Americans back to the streets of their parents’ childhood, show them their roots. Little did I know that it would become a story shared around the world. KPBS changed my life. My book started as nonfiction, the true story of my best friend in high school. But as the novel developed, editors showed a keen interest in the narrator – me – and wanted her to be involved. When I told my editor that the narrator was merely an [...]

We tend to associate nostalgia with a level of sadness, but when an incident takes us back to years ago, isn’t it a rare gift to be treasured? Last week, I was offered a chance to make an imaginary U-turn in the one-way road of life. When my son’s high school friend mentioned the mulberries in their orchard, I went so wild that she had no choice but to invite me over. “But come soon, as they won’t last long.” She did not need to insist because my sister and I were there the next day. As we were leaving, [...]

It is Mother’s Day, a day when most children leave everything they are doing and focus on mom. Flowers and gifts are bought, reservations are made, and so many cakes are baked! Some go out for breakfast to a crowded place where it’s hard to enjoy a meaningful conversation, some have to divide their attention between multiple moms, and like many other events, deep down most people are happy to put it behind them. Mother’s Day? Check! While I honor all moms, my view of this day happens to be a bit different. And I think I know why. We [...]

Like many others, who are fascinated by poetry and mysticism, I am overwhelmed with the world of Rumi. Known to literature as Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, the Persian poet and Sufi is called Mowlana in the Eastern world – our master – while to the West, he is simply Rumi. Years of probing into his work have only made me realize how much I don't know because each time I read him, a new layer comes to view. At this point, I am resigned to the conclusion that his exact message may forever be lost to the world, that while [...]

I don’t care what your party, your belief, or your lifestyle may be. All I know is that ever since the last election, most people seem to be going through life like a partially deflated balloon, not strong enough to soar, nor empty enough to stay grounded! Everyone is worried, scared even, and everyone hopes that some sense will be returned to our world. The sad fact is, that won’t happen. The way things are, peace has to come from within and at the moment that appears to be the only way it’ll come. I have planned a few simple [...]