Iran 2000
(Late Sunday I watch Neda’s video. I suspect that I recognize Arash Hejazi, but I prefer not to believe in what I am seeing. I send him and email)
Sunday 21 23:011
Dear Arash
I need to know where you stand, if things that I am seeing/reading are true. Then I can myself take a position – depending on your advice, of course.
love
Paulo
Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 02:05:05 -04:00
Subject: your country
Dearest Paulo,
I am now in Tehran. The video of Neda’s murder was taken by my friend, and you can recognize me in the video. I was the doctor who tried to save her and failed. She died in my arms. I am writing with tears in my eyes. Please don’t mention my name. I’ll contact you with more details soon.
Love
Arash
The doctor
(At this point, I decide to put the video in my blog)
(For the rest of the day, I try to contact him. At one point, someone answers his phone as a “CNN journalist”. I start to become worried)
Monday 22 17:46
Dear Arash
so far, no news from you. After I published the video in my blog, it seems that it spread worldwide, including posts in NY Times, Guardian, National Review, etc.
Therefore, my main concern now is about you. You NEED to answer this email, saying that you are all right
and
the name of the person where we spend the New Year’s Eve in 2001 together, just to be sure that it is you really who is answering this email. I don’t buy this CNN person answering your mobile.
If you don’t do that, I may leak your name to the press, in order to protect you – visibility is the only protection at this point. I know this because I am a former prisoner of conscience.
If you do that, unless instructed otherwise by you, I will stop the pressure for the moment. My main concern now is you and your family.
love
Paulo
P.S. – there are several trusted friends in blind copy here.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009 1:35 AM
Dearest Paulo
I am alright for now. I am not staying at home. I don’t know about CNN. The friend’s name was Frederick.
Love
Arash
Sent: Tuesday, June 23, 2009 1:37 AM
Dearest Paulo,
Trying to leave the country tomorrow morning. If I don’t arrive in London at 2 pm., something has happened to me. Till then, wait.
My wife and my son are in (edited). Their phone (edited) Her email (edited)
Please wait till tomorrow. If something happens to me, please take care of (name of wife) and (name of son), they are there, alone, and have no one else in the world.
Much love, it was an honor having you as a friend.
Arash
(At this point, a Brazilian journalist, Luis Antonio Ryff, who traveled to Iran to cover my visit, recognizes Arash in the video, and writes me to double-check. I confirm, but I ask him to keep his name secret until today. Ryff agrees – even knowing that this would be a major scoop for him. I would like to thank him here, for his dignity)
Wednesday 24 1:55 PM
Arash landed in London
Should twitter receive the Nobel Peace Prize?
Twitter, Paulo Coelho, Facebook, were instrumental in getting information out of Iran over these last few weeks that the evil Supreme Being has ordered a clampdown on what little democracy exists in Iran. Should they not be joint recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize?
http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/2009/07/434151.html
http://www.indymedia.org/en/2009/07/926569.shtml
Also see
http://www.worker-communistpartyofiran.blogspot.com/
for some amazing film footage of women on the front line in Iran
Keith
Paulo,
I was a frequent reader of your works translated by Arash since at least ten years ago when I was a high school student. Indeed I have read all of your books published until a few years ago and your words have always been inspiring to me. I read about Arash Hejazi today when for the first time I saw his name (and not only his image), and it sounded quite familiar to me, so I got to your blog to double check.
It’s unfortunate the incidences which have happened in Iran. People are certainly risking their lives to reach some fundamental humanistic freedom, which is of course much respectable. However, knowing my country quite well, I believe the election is only an excuse for the opposition to show its resentment. Don’t tell me the election was rigged while every candidate had more than forty thousands monitors at the polling stations!! We have always had election disputes in Iran and will continue to have it over the next century. I can only trust the opposition as much as I trust the government itself when it comes to the issue of election fraud.
And It doesn’t matter to me so much that 70-80 percent of the people in capital has voted for the opposition, what matters to me is that at least 70 percent of the lower class population has voted for the current government. I’m from a small city in Iran where 80 percent has voted to Ahmadinejad and this is absolutely understandable for me. In such a small city the cultural freedom that Tehranis are seeking are not even appealing to the youth whose major problems are tradition and economy. I don’t mean that Ahmadinejad has managed the economy very well, but I mean that the opposition has only made the election an excuse in order to go to the streets and demand its social freedom, as this is their only chance to raise their voice.
Any way, I’ve become totally disappointed of the reform movement in Iran, as I believe now the reformists and the university youth are insulting the vulnerable lower middle class population. They still haven’t learnt that they can’t overtake the pace of history while the rest of their country demands something else (Khatami also thought so but couldn’t do much!). They are of course a big population 40% but not the majority yet! I’m talking within the framework of the system, though, I don’t mean people are satisfied with the ‘regime’ (no one likes their government!); I mean within this system, the reformists have only been able to attract 40% of the people.
So I’m afraid I don’t have much affinity with the likes of Arash or Neda who dispute the vote of their vulnerable compatriots. After all, those who advocate ‘being a warrior of light’ should base their battle on the right principles! I believe these twitter savvy youth who organize the protests should be sent to exile to remote villages so that they learn that they are not the only ones living in this country. Although I appreciate the demand of these youth, I’m only with them when they get a better understanding of the true demands of the vulnerable and poor Iranians.
Aatash
dear Dr,Arash…
I am a medical student.My classmates & I saw the interaction and suppresing of the students in univercity by police… dear Dr,I will be a Dr,in near future..I dont know what is my next,but somebody know!!sb that are the specials in my class.they are special,because of their history!the history of treason to Iran!!they kiss the hands of political powers.but we are not disappointed due yo your translations of mr.paulo books.we are pride that read your books…
love
amir reza
me also as an iranian have to ask abt the mystry of neda’s death?
why Mr. Hejazi u were there.where were u two days b4 neda’s death day?in UK?
and then just 1 day after that u were in UK again?
i’am afraid if Mr. Hejazi u did sth that in whole of ur life would not able to compensate that.
i am just saying why nobody ask him what did u do there exactly by neda and describe the death and things happend surround that against all the witness like neda’s teacher(the man with blue shirt)?
Hi to geat man Paulo and Arash. I have been fallowed the tagedy av Neda. And I strong bleive that: Neda and Arash had a karma toghtehr. I belive that Nedas innocent dead is that beging of Arash journey in this life. Arash will find the mening of this journey and responsibility he have now. And I belive that you Sir Paulo can help Arash on this. I am greatful that you read my massage and let´s pray for peace on earth. Best regards / Fereshteh
Whoops, I forgot to add that this lucky coincidence that dr Hejazi is the translator of your works, Mr. Coelho, who art kind of a guru of the spiritural for many people today in this materialistic world.
Use this coincidence, please, don’t let the world forget the cry of Neda (Neda in Persian means “call”, “cry”).
I am with you with all my heart
Dear dr Hejazi
Mesl-e in hame adam qaziye-ye Neda ra tombal mikonam wa mosahebe-ye shoma ra bara-ye BBC didam.
You have done the right thing, and you have proved that you are a man of courage. You are a true Warrior of Light.
Now I am also worried for you, please take care of yourself and of your family,
With love
one who is writing about your interview and about you for sites in one European country, the country of Eichelberger
قبل از این ندا فقط یک ندا بود معنایی بیش از این نداشت.
اما دیگر ندا صدای من و توست. ندا پیام آزادی است. ندا فریاد خفته میلونها آزاده است که در بندند.
راه ندا و خون ندا پایمال نخواهد شد
Dear Arash,
We all are pride of you. The Iranian regimen has killed so many innocent persons in the last 30 years. People like you will make our country free. Yeah, someday we will have freedom in Iran without any mullahs. Thanks you for being brave and telling the truth.
Mr. Coelho, we all Iranian, appreciate what you put in your blog.
So, what about his phone being answered by some CNN guy? Did you ask him about this?
Dear Mr. Paulo Coelho,
I as an Iranian wanted to thank you for the follow up you have made on June 21, Dr Hejazi and all Iranian have to be so proud to have someone like you as their friend.
I have to take this opportunity to thank Arash and his brave action to help Neda and later on put himself to the dangerous situation to brief what had happened on June 20th.
Iran needs more Arash and Neda. There are still hope for freedom in Iran.
Toronto
Dear Mr. Paulo Coelho,
I as an Iranian wanted to thank you for the follow up you have made on June 21, Dr Hejazi and all Iranian have to be so proud to have someone like you as their friend.
I have to take this opportunity to thank Arash and his brave action to help Neda and later on put himself to the dangerous situation to brief what had happened on June 20th.
Iran needs more Arash and Neda. There are still hope for freedom in Iran.
Toronto, Canada
I hope it’s okay to leave a note here for Dr. Hejazi.
Dr. Hejazi,
It was brave of you to try to save Neda, but far more brave to allow yourself to be interviewed and speak the truth about what is happening in Iran. I also hope that the UK is able to provide amnesty for you and your family. I hope that, in the long run, things will improve in Iran and you can return there. If that happens, it’s because of what you selflessly have done.
My thoughts are with you.
Arash is prosecuted by iran police.
http://www.tabnak.ir/fa/pages/?cid=53707
Dear Coelho! you have many readers and fans in iran, too! and i am sure you already know it! please help protect Arash, as if not the interpol, the secret agents of the islamic republic regime will try to hunt Arash! this is quite alarming!!!
Dear sir
Iranian police commander said: Arash Hejazi’s murder call the Sultan Agha as control stramash is making prosecution under the International Police (Interpol) .
http://www1.farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=8804100464
Dear Mr. Coelho,
thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us about what happend to your friend Dr. hejazi. Everyone should raise their voice where ever there is an act of injustice!!! and what is happening in iran right now is a brutal act of injustice!!!and i thank Dr. Hejazi for raising his voice about what really happend to neda for those who had a doubt about it!like the iranian ambassador in Mexico!!!thank you so much Dr. Hejazi. MAN BE SHOMA EFTEKHAR MIKONAM!!!!
“There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure.”
thank you mr. hejazi for trying to help that young woman neda.
Arash Hejazi, the Dr. in the Neda video, in 2005:
“I am concerned about my family. The presidential election is near.
They are doing everything to keep things under control,” he said.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/4544105.stm
Friday 13,2005 , 14:08 GMT 15:08 UK
Iran ‘bans author Coelho’s novel’
Coelho said he had a government permit to publish the book
The latest novel by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho has been banned in
Iran, its publisher in the country has said.
Iranian authorities confiscated 1,000 copies of The Zahir at the
Tehran Book Fair on Monday but did not give a reason, according to
publisher Caravan.
The Zahir, published in Iran last month, tells the story of an author
who tries to track down his missing war correspondent wife.
Coelho has sold an estimated 65 million books around the world.
His previous novels include The Alchemist and Eleven Minutes, and The
Zahir will be published in 83 countries.
Caravan’s Arash Hejazi said he was now worried about his safety.
————————–
Shaping a country: list of Iranian authors
June 17, 2009 – (5 days before the Neda video appeared)
Arash Hejazi originally studied to be a medical doctor in Tehran. His
thesis in medical school was about “the influences of storytelling on
children’s anxiety disorders.” …….. A staunch advocate of free
speech in Iran, Hejazi is openly against the Iranian government’s
censorship of books.
http://www.examiner.com/x-13563-Richmond-Literature-Examiner~y2009m6d17-Shaping-a-country-list-of-Iranian-authors
Brazilian author Paulo Coelho says his latest book banned in Iran
Thursday, 12 May 2005
AFP
PARIS – International best-selling Brazilian author Paulo Coelho said
Thursday that his latest novel “The Zahir” had been banned in Iran,
with some 1,000 copies confiscated this week at Tehran’s annual book
fair.
“The book was forbidden, even though we went through the normal
procedures of getting a permit from the government for it to be
published,” Coelho said in an e-mail message sent to AFP by his French
publishers Flammarion.
“Now, my Iranian publisher, Arash Hejazi, is expressing serious
concerns about his safety,” said Coelho, best known for “The
Alchemist”
http://www.iranfocus.com/en/iran-general-/brazilian-author-paulo-coelho-says-his-latest-book-banned-in-iran-02084.html
fear not and worry not dear paulo coelho and his freinds,
in india one of the surest method of selling a large number of copies of your book is to get it banned or get some noise made for banning it – so say some.
banning a book has been and always will be counterproductive for every regime, specially so in these times of free internet. no oone can convince any right thinking indivudual or even just plain ctitizens that being exposed to some novel or some book can do unrepairable harm to their being, hence people always get more curious to read what is banned by regeimes.
violent repression of peaceful protestors, specially killing them have been a death nail for the ideoalogies which sanction such killing. remember tinamen square massacre in china, the whole communist thinking changed after that, free market became the watchword for the communist regime, and terrible deprivation of the classes became evident, the labout laws in china are strange, they ensure minimun wages for them, no safety at their workplaces, and scant dignity at the hands of government functionaries some of whom are worse than any class enemy!
Hope people of Iran and everywhere else get treated with dignity, which all rulers are dutybound to give, when prophets have treated the common masses with love, respect and dignity then if anyone thinks otherwise needs to take a relook at their own self. No sacrifice ever goes a waste, neither will these by the Iranian people, now.
love
aditya
Dear DR. Hejazi… YOu are a hero, despite your confused moments…. Thank you for bringing hope to our lives and to our weakened moments… I wish I knew how to write directly tro you. But I hope this message finds you well and in full health. THANK YOU
Thank you for writing this. Very interesting
Imagine there’s no countries
It isn’t hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace
You may say that I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us
And the world will be as one
John Lennon
wow, what a story. I didn’t know about the doctor’s connection to Paulo Coelho. I think this “coincidence” is no coincidence, but it’s an opportunity to help resist the terrible situation in Iran. Thank you for publishing.
Deseo ver el dia en que una persona no sea perseguida, ostigada y atemorizada por ayudar a una persona herida de muerte. ¿En que absurdo mundo vivimos?. Espero que Arash Hejazi pueda vivir una vida tranquila fuera de Iran y que el pais recupere la cordura, se ponga en manos de gente cabal, moderada y aperturista y por extension el y su familia puedan volver. Un pais donde se teme por tu vida por ayudar a una mujer que indirectamente estaba en una manifestacion pacifica es, cuanto menos, horrendo.
Un abrazo desde España para Arash y su familia, una felicitacion para el por atenderla en sus ultimos momentos como toda persona de bien haria y muchos animos. Me alegra ver que Paulho, ademas de ser un gran escritor es un gran amigo.
Paulho, tienes el deber para con tus contemporaneos de escribir algo que denuncie todo esto. Tus palabras llegaran donde la censura no puede llegar.
Thinking about Neda today…A couple of songs say this better than I ever could : )
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtGF2m102Wg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2W4-0qUdHY&feature=PlayList&p=16137489ADE260A2&index=0
Thank You Paulo, LOVE to all xo
First of all i would like to thank you. For what you might ask. Mainly for you books which had a great impact on my life. And secondly for spreading awareness amongs the world regarding Neda.
I am an iranian, i have already lost an uncle and aunt to the government. The people in Iran are struggling for help.
Anyways,all i wanted to say is Thankyou. For helping me become what i am now. A warrior of light.
Estimado Paulo
Tenho acompanhado pela internet os acontecimentos do Irã, esse grande país de antigas e ricas tradições, e com pesar vi a morte de Neda no vídeo que circulou recentemente. Neda era uma mulher jovem, que como toda pessoa sã e com desejo de viver, tinha esperanças e sonhos, que agora foram perdidos para sempre. Cada vez que penso no regime iraniano, vejo nele uma organização criminal, uma tirania em prol do sofrimento, da opressão e da dor do povo iraniano. Mas sou otimista, acredito piamente que, como o povo iraniano um dia derrubou a ditadura perversa do Xá, ele saberá encontrar novos caminhos em que as pessoas possam ser mais felizes, falar abertamente, e que possam realizar com alegria seus sonhos e esperanças. Grande abraço do seu fã e admirador.
Josesito Padilha
My dear Paulo, dear Arash,
i am a persian/german singer/songwriter living in Germany (who´s in love with your books, Paulo!) .
I was born in the time of the persian revolution in Iran but came to Germany as a little child. Now i can say: the time of my entire life, my country has been supressed, bleeding, suffering…so many things went on that we don´t have the slightest ideas about…and now it is more than time for them to stand up and raise their voices! The only constant in the world is change – so, i hope that their courage to go out and risk their lifes only by raising their voices peacefully, will bring change! It has already changed the image of persian people in the entire world. Now people outside of Iran realize that persian people are not to be seen as one with their regime. Thank you so much for supporting us and for giving us the chance to get a glimpse of the truth! People in Iran really need all the support possible right now, to keep their courage to speak their minds and to make change possible! Thank you Arash for your courage! Be safe!
OneLove,
Kaye-Ree
it’s a poem from A. Mahan about these days and Neda. i put the poet’s email if . . .
قتل
قتلهای زنجیرهای
قتلهای انبوه
و در این پنهانی
این یك پرونده شفاف است.
قتلهای قانونی
خدایان شادِ شادند
و سنگ دوباره سیراب میشود.
من خوابم
و تو بیداری
پلكهایم را مكِش
من این كابوس را دیدهام
بارها
من از چشمانم میترسم
میان دود و گاز و اشك
مردانِ مورچهای با كاسكت و ماسك و باتوم
و چراغها روشن
یكبارِ دیگر اشغالشدیم
فقط شیشه نیست كه میشكند
من این كابوس را میبینم
كه تو بیدارِ آنی
من از چشمهایم میترسم كه دیدهاند
چشمی بر آسفالت
ندای آن چشم در همه گرفت
درختی از آن نگاه برآمد
سایه تیرهاش بر همه خاك لرزان.
پلكهایم را مكِش
من از این كابوس میترسم
كه چشمِ مُرده یك قتل بمانم
درست میانِ خیابان
هرچند قانونی.
و من از خاموشی این ندا میترسم
من از آن فراموشی
من از این وحشت میترسم.
فقط شیشه نیست كه میشكند
هوای آینه باید داشت.
23/6/09
ا- ماهان
Islamic regime has already started distributing propaganda about Neda’s death, right after that heart breaking moments has come to attention all around the world.
They are trying to say that her death has been planned by some people and they have had their camera ready at the scene.
Arash, as you said in your interview with BBC, nobody believes the regim’s version of the story. I wish one of those peolpe who took the photo of the murderer, distribute it sooner.
Arash, I do appreciate what you have done, and thanks Paulo for your support.
Dear Paulo,
I have read all your books in Farsi and also I have seen Arash several times in Tehran. (My father is a publishing manager like Arash.) I just wanted to say that it’s so heart warming you supporing us in Iran in any possible way.
Regards,
Hooman from Tehran
dear Paulo and Arash.
it’s our honor that one of bravest Iranian person is Arash Hejazi.
Thanks to Paulo for this kindness.
Dear Paulo!
I just purchased your latest book the winner stands alone..in RUSSIAN :) i am so happy. I am in the process of rereading all of your books. You are amazing! When i read your book i am motivated to be better in every way of my life. I am also encouraged to pursue my destiny, because as you said in Alchemic, Life really is generous to those who pursue their destiny! Thank you for everything!
Natalia
hi! i am from iran , that is so sweet of u that recommend the help for an iraninian although he is ur translator in iran , we r passing such a horrible time , my home not so much far from that accident and ive seen it by myself in the way of home . i cant eat anything for 3days. i ve seen real dead in front of my eyes sth that maybe i ve seen it1000 times but the real one much more diffrent , shoting has a horrible sound and when it hits someone …….
these days i ve seen sth that never i cant even imagin
Dear Paul Coelho,
thank you for taking responsability in this world-
thank you for living with open eyes -
thank you for being human and courageous-
thank you for teaching young people with your example
Greetings from Germany
Ruth Bues Diez
Mr. Coelho, hundreds Dr Hejazi asr in Iran. Plz don’t let us be foorgotten after these days. Although with God protection we are not alone. but as Sa’adi said:
“Human beings are members of a whole,
In creation of one essence and soul.
If one member is afflicted with pain,
Other members uneasy will remain.”
We need the help of people of all around the world.
We are a part of your suffering .Recognize it ,that you have the world on your side, surrounding you with our love. Gain strenght.You are courage and beauty!
Love from New Zealand
Look at this article:
http://www.spiegel.de/panorama/0,1518,632775,00.html
Thanks Paulo, thanks Arash!
You too must now increase your security dearest Paulo! We all need you! Sorry for placing extra responsibility on your shoulders… ;)Love, Paul
That ’s true, dear Paulo..we have become Paulo-holic!
(Sorry also…)
Love and Graditude
Annie
Dear Paulo Coelho
this short comment is for you – and for Dr. Hejazi – who in my eyes is real hero – a model for humanity !
Congratulations for your Interview in the BBC Dr. Hejazi – and congratulations for your courage as you tried to help Neda. And also congratulations also to Paulo to have told us this story. Some days ago I post it in my blog (in French) [http://cneffpaysages.blog.lemonde.fr/2009/06/20/f-comme-freidoune/] – “et ouvrons-leur nos portes quand ils en auront besoin” – I hope that the free world will open their doors and say welcome when refugees from Iran will arrive – for all of them when they will knock on our doors ! Yours Christophe
P.S.: I have wrote a short, article in French and German Wikipedia about you Dr. Hejazi – and I also think that there also should be an Portuguese article about you – but my Portuguese is actually to bad – !
Dear friend
The last thing the world need is an other refugee export country. Enough is enough . For 30 years millions of Iranians flew from their country and tyrani became more and more powerfull . Lead your governments not to deal with this savage government anymore.
pray for us . Pray for these people who could flew from these tyranic government but they choose to stay , to resist , to build their future . Show them ,by all you can , that they are not alone.
Pray for us and do not forget us.
“who are friends not have geographical boundaries”.
Thank you so much Mr. Paulo and Mr Arash to show a real friendship in this world.
greetings from Italy
Maurizio
Mohammad, are you in Iran? If so could you PLEASE contact me at robertdean@spotthedog007.com. I would so much like to speak to someone would could enlighten me about what is going on. I have posted several blogs on my website concerning the struggle and a Tribute To Neda video. God bless and know we stand beside you despite the inaction of our president!
Robert Dean
Dear Paulo Dear Arash,
I am a big fan of your book and Arash translates in Persian…I saw Arash post in the first minutes of putting it on facebook!!! that makes me shocked, I shared it in facebook, grab the video and show it to my friend at work (so many basijies are at my work and I know they will be rewarded if they take part in such ugly jobs), I am doing my protest via net and spreading the news and videos in net… wish Arash come back to free Iran. Send him and his family our best regards
Thank you all dear visitors and dear Paulo for your sympathy with Iran and iranian peoples.
You can read more about mrs. Neda Agha Soltan and 2009 Iranian election protests in Wikipedia and known about what happening now in our dear country Iran.
Paulo, thanks for sharing this part of story for transparency.
Arash Hejazi should be very careful from now on. You know how Islamic regime killed some opposition and people who dared to speak up long before in Turkey, Germany, Britain and France. So be careful, Iran needs you alive.
Thanks for sharing the story with us. I am ashamed to see that the Iranian regime started a negative campaign, by calling the victims of the recent crimes, agents of this country and that country.These kids are not agents, they do not have any political motives, and they do not have a political agenda either. They strive for the most basic human rights, as Nelson Mandela did, as Martin Luther King did and as Ghandi did. Paulo, use your beautiful pen, and tell the world about our struggle please.
I’m shocked!! I can’t express my feeling! Arash Hejazi this familiar name! Oh My GOD!! My GOD what’s going on? Why? Neda, Arash hejazi, Paulo…I just can’t understand…
praising Dr. Arash for trying to save Neda’s life,I am trying to find the phone number and address of Neda’s parents so that they can speack up to western press such as Washington Post, or Washington Times.
Would you mind to help perhaps trough Dr. Arash. Maybe he can talk about Ms. Neda Agh-Soltan to the press
Dear Paulo,
Thank you for sharing this video. Dr. Hejazi is a brave man for coming forward and telling it as is. I know the Iranian govt will go after Dr. Hejazi for telling the truth. One thing on Dr. Hejazi side, he’s not into politics, he was just an onlooker who was there.
Despite the tragedy of Neda Soltani’s death, this story reminds me of the great hope for humanity. As long as people are willing to speak the truth, there is a chance for the freedom of humanity in any nation.
I thank God that your friend and his family are safe. I’m sorry for Neda’s family and the families of all the others whose lives have been cut short by what appears to be the criminal behavior of their government.
Once again, we disappoint the Almighty in a big way, and yet His love touches us through people like Arash.
Well done Paulo. Arash, you’re a hero.
Dear Paulo and Arash…Thank you for your bravery in speaking out and helping me understand what your people are going through. My prayers are with you. Christine
What a great story and what a small world!
This evening (8pm BST, 1900 GMT) on BBC Radio 4, there is a half hour report on Iran from John Simpson (BBC World Affairs Editor) who was recently expelled from Iran.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/8116825.stm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00lmqhl
Keith
Wondering how could you recognize his face? That was awesome…
I’m happy we still have good men in the world…
I am very pleased Paulo to hear that you have found your friend alive and well.
Paulo, you are an incredible man, and an incredible human being.
I hope there are more people like you in the world.. this world needs a lot of love & hope, and you spread both in every act possible.
God bless you
I have a frind there /with wife and beautiful daughters/ and I didn’t hear anything from him and his family!
Please God, keep them safe!
I still have a friend there and I didn’t here anything from him and his family.
Dear friend, I’m thinking of you and your wife and daughters! I hope I’ll here from you soon!
Please God, keep them safe!
how great that he is in london now, i was just thinking about it.
grate 4 arash
Congratulations on the safe journey for your friend and his family.
Dear Paulo, I have an iranian friend that arrived in Sweden, last month and he said me that in Iran the life is very bad. He came to Sweden and doesnt know when he will meet his family.
I arrived here today and decided to come here and to know what happened.
I feel that both are the same…your friend and the doctor in the video.I hope so he can be in London. But if he is in London, why he doesnt contact u?
That give me worries.
Have a nice day( I dont know if is possible after lot war around the world)
Paulo, eres un gran tipo.
Te admiro profundamente.
Sencillamente, GRACIAS
Caro Paulo,
grazie a Dio che ci ha dato una persona stupenda come te, grazie per le emozioni chi ci trasmetti, per il coraggio che ci infondano le tue parole, grazie per l’aiuto ai nostri fratelli.
Spero di conoscerti un giorno di persona, per dirti grazie , come sono riuscita a fare con Caetano Veloso.
Che Dio ti benedica
Gabriella
Ho letto come tuo prima libro Brida, in portoghese, quando sono stata in Brasile anni fà – allora non c’erano ancora tuoi libri in italiano
Gracias por aportar tanto a este nuestro universo!
EL QUE BUSCA SER AMADO,RESPETADO Y COMPRENDIDO, ANTES DEBE SEMBRAR PAZ, BONDAD, AMOR Y COMPASION…
If what i read is correct, I understand that Arash arrived in London safely, thank God. As i watched that clip on the news before seeing Paulo’s updated blog, I felt devastated that another young life had been taken, and being a doctor myself, i can only tell you how painful it is to have somebody unexpectedly die in your arms after a violent event, and to feel helpless and powerless to intervene. But i guess what few of us will ever really know are the feelings of a man, a doctor, a human fighting spirit, fighting for justice, risking his own life to help save that of another, and risking the safety and lives of his family in the process. Arash, I honour you. And i am sure you already know that it is never really in our hands to save a life – we are as doctors merely his tools to do his will and facilitate the greater plan, as painful, as devastating as it may be. Neda’s death will never have been in vain, you can be assured of this. We, will never allow this to have been the case. I wish you Arash the sort of peace inside of you that only time can bring you. I wish you a peaceful heart to know that you did everything in your power to do God’s will. I wish the haunting memories and flashbacks of your experience to be silenced with the grace of your service. You are a brave man with a warrior soul. I send you my prayers, my light and love for your healing and for that of your family.
Paulo, thank you so much for letting us know what is going on in the real world, far away from the stories you hear, see and read in the news. This is so incredible important.
Hope that Arash and his family will be reunited soon and Iran will find a way out f this chaos.
I am not religious, but I will pray for them in my own way.
Zita
http://www.iprental.com/ for Iranians in Iran that need anonymous
web browsing through untraceable USA IP addresses.
another great resource
http://iran.whyweprotest.net/news-current-events/2202-green-brief-7-niteowl.html
get Back
We All live in a Yellow Submarine… We Are All God’s Children!
God Bless and Protect… All who Sail upon the Sea of Green… and face the price of Freedom on the Ocean of Liberty…
God Speed Iran God Speed…
La vie, comme nous disons, n’est pas toujours en ROSE . Surtout elle est très cruelle.
Et pourquoi pour avoir la force nous devons nous métamorphoser en animaux sauvages ?
Monsieur Paulo vous avez retrouvé votre amis dans une mauvaise situation, alors qu’il était entrain de faire un acte humanitaire. Vous voyez comme la vie est bizarre.
Shahrzad
dear paulo,
thank you for sharing this very personal and yet so importantly public story about people you love and care for here. i am very moved and thankful that your friend is safe and hope and pray for iranians now, protesting for their human rights and wanting what we already have freedom and safety in speech!
kindest regards, corinna
Thank you for sharing <and keeping the heat up, Paulo. Please, we need to know more, we have to. After the initial outburst, the impression is that of a veil of silence (and death?) that has fallen upon the events in Iran. People like your friend Arash can make the difference, telling the whole world what is really going on in their country.
Paso a leer y saludar, te dejo un beso, cuidate mucho y que sigan los exitos. Soy una lectora mas de tus maravillosos libros.
Thank God for Arash arriving in London safely, but my heart and stomach churns watching the video of Neda. I have never “seen” (in real life, or on video/tv) someone die before, and even on a blurry camera phone it makes me feel sick in my soul for the way she was killed, murdered. I am sure these images will never leave my mind, and I hope the world won’t be able to forget either. How can these conflicts and these deaths continue in the world? I do not understand humanity sometimes. We are created with the ability to feel emotion, and how can man (or woman) continue with such actions after seeing a brutal death like Neda’s? Who are those people who aren’t stirred by images and videos like these? Her life was stolen from her. May she find the most glorious peace now, and may others realize this as well. Every person on this planet deserves peace, both in life and death.
Satisfaction lies in the effort, not in the attainment, full effort is full victory… Gandhi ♡
Felizmente ele já está a salvo e desejo que junto de sua família.
Hi, handsome doctor with brave heart!
You are not alone. Because you have a human belt cheering up you and your country. I can recognize the situation by Coelho. Coelho is by you, and we are by Coelho.
For democracy of your country.
For you, your family and Neda.
I am happy that he is ok and hope he and his family will stay safe. I also hope that there will be light shining soon for the people of iran
Hi Paelo,
I love your books and I was inspired by them since I was a teenager. when I saw the news about you and this I really liked that you care about Iranian people or atleast one. But Can you please bring down his last name? I am worried that he will be in a lot of trouble and even maybe tortured or prisoned for this info. I am just saying, because I lived there until I was 17 and I remember what type of people they are, and what things they made us wear in school and on streets and how they were dictating a way of life and how oppressed they made us and our life. Thank you
Dear Paulo
Neda and the other brave guys never death for us,they are in our mind and heart.she is a hero for democracy in Iran and also for human rights around the world,the world will never forget them.
rest in peace…i proud of you Neda…
i was shocked about Arash!he is one of the best iranian translator.i hope all will be safe with him & his family.thanks for your attention.
love
Tara
Ótimo!!! Excelente notícia.
Fico feliz em saber que ele está a salvo. Força!
¿Cómo cree que blog pudo ser Pirateado?
My heart goes out for Neda’s family and I pray that her death is never forgotten. I pray that the people of Iran are given a voice and that, that voice is heard loud and clear. Innocent people should not have to loose their lives to speak the truth of their hearts and minds. The world weeps for you. Your death has brought a voice to the issue in Iran like no other image or story could. Because of you I know know about the injustices that are being done to your people. “The Angel of Iran”. Her name is Neda Soltani, philosophy student. The fresh-faced teenage girl killed by what appears to be a single sniper shot on the street of Tehran on Saturday is now potent symbol for Iran’s pro-democracy protesters. They bastard’s tiranny zoo Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and ex-President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad regime killed NEDA, but not her voice. Neda is everyone’s sister, everyone’s daughter, everyone voice for FREEDOM… Free 35 Iranian journalists have been arrested even. Free Iran!
Esse mundo é mesmo uma Merda. Eu vi o vídeo no Globo on Line, com todas as cenas chocantes. Não tenho palavras, respondendo o seu post anterior, é nesses momentos que Deus e a Magia morrem cada vez mais.
Abraços grandes.
Dear Paulo,
I am always wondering about how small is this world! On the other hand I am very thankful for your understanding regarding the complexity of the political situation in Iran, even if I am not iranian myself.
Agan, may God bless the soul of every innocent who died for nothing but political babbling everywhere.
Hicham
After Neda, after baseej brutalizing their own with axes, after the lowest, cruelest elements of society have treated the opposition like animals…can the regime know how and when to stop? If all protest ceased, would the terrorizing stop without an opposition to terrorize? Or has the regime opened some door to primal rage that cannot be closed again? What happens to the soul of a people so badly treated?
Truly amazing. No anger. God love and rest her soul.
This makes me want to weep. So many emotions. Wow.
firstly thank you for your care about your iranian friends paulo.
but I can’t understand Iran-Iraq war stoped in 1989 and your friend doesn’t seem to be so much old to work as a doctor at that time.
I just wondered maybe u didn’t mean he was a doctor then?
anyway I hope him to be safe.
Dear Paulo,
You are an icon now. You helped open the eyes of the world to the unfortunate events in Iran. Thank you and please know how much we appreciate all your humanitarian efforts. All the best to Arash. I wish you did not mention his last nema, as that can endanger his family in Iran.
Thanks again for what you did. You are a hero for many of us.
thank you for sharing Paulo … it is important to be transparant, particularly in these situation.
Suzane
I must say I agree with Sabrina just a little… It seems dangerous for your friend to mention him here, I can’t see the protective side very well… But even though, I’m sure you know what you’re doing.. Still, I want to understand, so can you explain more about that visibilty protects?
It really gives me a heavy heart and I just can’t get myself to watch that video, so I don’t think I will.. But I do think you’re all being very brave.. That girl’s death is very heartbreaking, but definately not in vain, now that it’s opening eyes all over the world.. at least, I hope it does. And I hope Arash won’t see her death as his failure, I’m sure he meant a great deal to her in the end…
Thank you very much for publishing your blog. This story is a strong testament of how small our world really is and confirms that tragedy and injustice not only affects a small number of people, but can affect people and families a world away.
My prayers and thoughts are with your friend, his family, and Neda’s family. They, and the people of Iran, are the heros in this tragedy.
May God bless and keep you.
They knew already, Sabrina. From the moment I said he was a friend of mine, they add 2 + 2. Still Arash was able to leave the country, which leave us also with some hope. I believe that calling them “bastards” does not help. THe situation is more complex than you think. They are not bastards.
This regime has been arbitrarily arresting and killing dissidents, Bahais, gays, journalists etc. for 30 years. You may say that they are not bastards but i have seen scars on friends bodies that tell me they are. I have seen the tears of those who have lost loved ones and those tears disagree with you. I have seen the anger in the eyes of friends who cannot return to their homeland that shouts “bastard” with a voice that shatters through any perceived complexity. If they are not bastards then there are none.
Now everybody knows his name. Before, it was dangerous. Now it is better to give a face to a name: visibility protects.
Paulo,
are you certain Arash is in London? in every email he begins with a greeting, and the last email he refers to himself in 3rd person as arriving in London (which seems odd).
Is there anything that we can do to help? Anything anything at all.
You have posted his name under the picture, please take off his name. This is a very dangerous situation. I think you missed that, government will go after him.
Dear Paulo,
We (Iranians) need a favor from you.
You are very popular in Iran and people have been inspired by your words so many times. I feel people are getting hopeless and hopeless and they are losing faith and courage. Can you PLEASE write something inspiring for iranian people so that they at least feel a little hope in their hearts. Thanks in advance.
Love,
Ali
This is really a good idea, indeed.
Love,
Rossana Curri
After reading all your books I feel that I know you somehow. I am so glad to hear that your friend is safe. I will continue to keep them in my prayers.
It is actions like yours Mr. Coelho, that gives a platform to the voices and images of the Irani people. i can imagine that what you did will not be without consequences and that you too will feel the pressure from the ayathollahs.
Amsterdam is the basis of Radio Zameneh, a free station for Irani’s and their hopes and dreams. Because it is funded partly by the Dutch government, our government is now under heavy pressure from Iran. i just hope they stand as firm as you did and show the same backbone and bravery. Hope is all one can have as there is no certainty, after all even the Dalai Lama was not invited by our prime minister due to Chinese economic pressure.
As long as there is news coming throught, influential people like you should let it be known; because your voice makes a difference and woman like Neda will not just die in the turmoil but their sacrifice and suffering will be known all over the world.
This is why I am asking you to remove this post from your blog:
“Jomhouri Islami newspaper (published in Iran) is blaming Neda’s shooting on snipers from the MKO (a militant group calling for the overthrow of the republic). It said the group exploited the lack of security created by the demonstrations.
Javan, another pro-regime paper, blamed recently expelled BBC correspondent Jon Leyne. It claims that Leyne hired “thugs” to shoot Neda so he could then make a documentary film.”
If these bastards find out about Arash and his presence at the scene, they will add this to their story and it will have very severe consequences for Arash and his family. Please please remove this post. I hope it’s not too late. I don’t understand why you published this post at first place.
Truly relieved that your friend has landed safely, and that his family too is okay and that they are (which now I presume) together. What an intense moment! I thought of it a lot. It was Québec’s Festivity and I was there looking at fireworks and could not stop thinking about firearms, the sound, Neda, your friend … and as a good Warrior of Light, I took time to tell my kids and friends to just stop a few seconds and pray for those who are not looking at those kinds of fireworks but who are afraid, in terror. Happy Paolo that your stress is over for that you have now the security of your friend’s safety. I admire also your courage during that intense moment. Jojo.
You never cease to amaze me Coelho. I am a great fan. Dr. Arasha did his best and not he is a victim of doing what is right. The world hates people like Dr. Arasha, people with a human heart, human mind, human concience. But he must stand strong, for the world needs more Arashas and Nedas. “The Winner Stands Alone”.
It’s a shame we still have to go through all this in this world..pity!
A relieve to hear that your friend has made it safely to London, and with family. Paulo, you have brought readers a bit closer to something that is going on in the world.
Dear Paulo,
“No one can lie, no one can hide anything, when he looks directly into someone’s eyes.” a quote from my favourite author.
You should take a deep look into your friend Arashe’s eyes for I believe you have been deceived and used as a political tool. I know you will see the truth and make the right choices because I believe in you more then I believe in myself sometimes.
God, hope, and love is all one.
Dear Paolo,
Thank God he is in saftey now. God bless you for your humane actions and true concern and support.
I pray for your friend, his family and their safty.
I am an American and I’ve been watching this horrible thing unfold from the beginning. I just can’t understand not having freedom and then having to try to fight for justice.
If I am correct, thank you Arash for trying to save that beautiful young women. Her star and light will not be squished. She will live forever in our hearts and minds. Neda wanted to be a part of trying to get her country back and I personally can’t take that away from her.
I never thought of you and your family being in danger. I am so glad you are safe.
Thank you Paolo for being his friend and help keep him safe. I hope in my heart that you are also.
Again, I really don’t understand going out everyday, at the thought of not coming back, but fighting for what they believe in. To be honest, I don’t even understande what goes on in the hearts of each of our own military, who go out and do what they have to do. I am proud of them also.
Now, I’ve got to figure out how I got to this site, so I can keep up with things.
Stay safe
Constance
Wow,Arash I’m glad that ur ok an paulo thanks for ur attention.
There are certain words and when they’ve been said all the rest is not needed.There are certain deeds and when they’ve been completed- only HAPPY END is possible.It’s when all t’s are crossed.And P.S. is not possible.The story above proves that.
I know many Americans who are also angry at President Obama’s seemingly cold and distant reaction to what’s happening in Iran. I, to, am not one to suggest that America stick its nose in other countries’ business. That sort of thing leads to the current situations in Iraq and Afghanistan. But as a democratic nation of free people, it is incumbent upon us to stand on the side of freedom, peace, and equality in any and all situations.
I fear that “larger” political issues (Iraq, nuclear proliferation, oil) are impeding the sort of response that most of us seem to want from our leader.
Dear Lauren,
Quote, “I too, am not one to suggest that America stick its nose in other countries’ business.” Unquote
Yes, interesting that America is, for once, not playing its usual “World Police” role…?
I wonder what dastardly game is being played and which tactics will be applied…?
It couldn’t have anything to do with their friends, just a rocket’s distance away, could it…? Naaaaah…!
Don’t be fooled, like all heads of state, Obama is a mere pawn in the nasty egoistic power-game of politics…
How come the masses (we/us) allow but a few “wretched men” have so much control?
Because, unlike the brave Iranian people right now… we are all cowards… and we are lazy… content with our small minded and contented materialistic Sunday afternoon feeling… which will have a very similar effect to that of the Wooden Horse in Helen of Troy…
Only courage will help kill the virus of greed & hate, and lead us to truth and light…
Love, Paul
Thank God he’s in London :)
sometimes we want and need to escape our lives, to enter into others’; those who may be “warriors of light and resistance” as it so symbolizes our highest wish for self; and when in our lives nothing and no one exists except singular strife, frustration and worthless confusion…i write this note to give voice to that reflection
In honor of a beautiful Sister Warrior Wombman, Neda Agha Soltani
In honor of the person who gave her the last words “don’t be afraid”.
In honor of the man, the doctor who tried to save her, Arash; and
In honor of wonderful present friends like Paulo who also
In honor, writes to free the world.
Peace
Maven (M)
I live in Pakistan and have always wondered why the Iranians are a people so much stronger than us? It is inspiring to see Neda symbolize a struggle for the entire country at the cost of her life, for Arash to be the savior and wonder when will we Pakistanis ever believe in true and just cause? when will we have the courage? I may or may not agree with the protests in Iran but will always admire the belief system. Freedom must always reign supreme!
I was so shocked about Arash! i watched this video a dozen times, but never recognized him before! it was a relief to hear he’s ok by now; he is just one great connection between you and us! he’s a real great translator of your books (i’m saying between yours & our minds!)
since you know whats going on in Iran now…. our people are begging for everyones help;
love
Hida
wow, wait a sec. He has translated your books to farsi. thats why his name seems so familiar to me.
I pray for him to land safe in UK with his family. :(
Dear Paulo, I have read most of your books and believe me when I say that for three years I have made it a habit of gifting some of your work to anyone I come in contact..By now the lady at the bookstore knows to ask when I enter.. Brida??..or Alchemist lols..
It’s heartbreaking to read about the terrible things that are happening in Iran. I pray for the violence to stop, I can’t understand why such violence against other human beings, when people will stop killing other people? There are so many questions that have no answers. We have to let everyone know about it and do something.
My prayers for the people in Iran who suffer this injustice.
Thank you so much for the post and let us know about your friend’s situation.
xxxx
Caro Paulo, tenha cuidado, pois não queremos que nada aconteça com você.
I hope all will be fine with him and his family will be safe too.
It’s amazing through how many different suffering is a human being able to go through…
Dear All,
Unfortunately, it is not one country that is suffering for oppression in our world. Many Latin-American countries as well as African and Asian countries are living this king of issues every year.
In 2001 I lived in Venezuela and saw how military men and other pro government people killed pacific demonstrators, who were against current Bolivarian President Hugo Chavez government. This country has been enduring so far the worst and most corrupt government ever. Venezuelans are dying in poverty, poor health conditions, and nasty housing.
I pray every day for us, humans, to understand the importance of living in peace, supporting each other, and respecting the same rules. It is the only way we have to overcome misery, war, and illness.
Thank you Paulo for help us believe in world peace and to follow our path of greatness.
Thank God that you’re all safe now, upon reading this post, indeed I was going to become really worried about you dear Arash. I don’t know what has made you be there in those critical moments, though you rememberd me the night I saw the pictures of Neda, my tears, my confusion, my bitter hatred of those terrorists who happen to be my so-called countrymen, and the crisis we’re stuck in these days…
Looking forward to hear good news and see more collaborations from you two enviably nice friends…
Love,
Soroush.
dear sir:
i do not cry very often.
i am not ashamed to say that i am right now. very moving this exchange of emails between friends, and very moving the doctor’s account of trying to save neda agha soltan.
john joseph jay
milton freewater, oregon u.s.a.
p.s. you cannot know how ashamed i am of the “role” b. hussein obama has played in all of this. to not condemn the actions of the iranian regime, as has the rest of the world, and to suggest that the theocracy still has a chance to “legitimize” itself in the face of these events. my country’s role in the world is presided over by a blooming idiot. it brings shame upon all americans.
There has to be some good somewhere, anywhere, blinding us in a sandstorm of greed, lust, chicanery, betrayal and sell-outs. We humans, belong to probably the lowest of species, the flimsiest examples of progress through principle yet we are shining examples of how to advance through deceit and trickery.
Once envy rears its ugly head, mortals prove that there is nothing they won’t do to rewind and erase the circumstance; from censorship to malicious fake talk, there’s really nothing discontent can’t adopt to emerge the beneficiary.
My prayers are with Arash and his family.
Paulo,great news Arash has arrived safely in uk..am in scotland if i can help in anyway please just let me know..!!much love angy
Dear Paolo,
every day we are witness of the death of thousands of Nedas here in Iran!Unfortunately our goverment do a big killgeneration and sometimes i wish i was death and did’nt see this paintful secends!maybe at the first,Election was the reason of thises demonstrations,but now we war for freedom,for reform,for stay live!I commiserate with Mr.Hejazi.Before,i’m proud of him by his books but now i’m proud by his personality!i think he is a very brave,beacause really i don’t know if i was instet of him,what could i dO for Neda!and i want of God patience for him…
Hi,
I’ve read your blog many times, but I never left a comment!
Now, I want to take advantage of your blog, and say something to Mr. Arash:
“Dearest Dr. Arash Hejazi,
I was so proud of you, because of the nice nice nice translations that you had made, and now I am even more because I saw you in the video, trying to help Neda. I just want to thank you and all other firends which are trying to get our rights back.
I hope some day I can see you again in Tehran, and get another signed book of Paulo from you.”
thanks again Paulo, for your books, for your blog and for your support!
Mansi
Dear paulo
As an reformist iranian woman I’m proud of you and dear Arash
God bless you and my people.
I have never done this before. I have been reading everyone comments for days.
I’m slowly learning about Iran. I don’t really understand how people can surpress people like you and yours. Maybe it’s because I live in such a free world and that’s what I know. I do know that If we don’t take our country back from Obama, we may not have the freedom we want.
I really don’t know who I’m writing to. Just know that I am watching this situation everyday and scaning things to maybe land on someone who can write back with out to much fear.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your people
Constance
Dear Paulo,
Thank-you for this post.
This was a critical situation for your friend, and I apologise for sending you an email at this time.
I pray that his wife and son will be safe.
I looked at the things in my apartment today, and knew that we can only take love with us in life. That is the only living thing we have.
Blessings
Karen xxxxxxxxx
I just read your book ” Veronica decides to die”.I live in Pakistan, and I think its safe to assume that nearly everyone in the world now knows where that is unlike Solvenia depicted in your book.IT was an amazing experience.Thank you for such an amazing piece of literature.
I have one question though: can you tell me the origins of the word ‘vitriol’ that doctor Igor uses to call his discovery.
I will be much obliged
Regards
Cher Ami,
Paulo Coelho te traduira peut etre ce message.
Un jour un médecin hollandais m’a appris qu’il y a une tradition entre les médecins de toute la Terre de s’appeler “amis”. Cher ami,
je suis médecin aussi, et je ressens en partie ce que tu dois sentir en ce moment;
je partage ta peine profondément et je prie pour toi et ceux que tu aimes.
Je crois que ce n’est pas le hasard que tu étais la,
Ta vocation ne s’arrete pas avec ce que tu pouvais faire sur place.
Ce n’est pas le hasard que ce soit toi qui soit sur cette vidéo et que ton ami soit l’un des écrivains les plus célébers de la Terre.
Tu as un message; ce message est profondément personnel; ce message doit se répandre; tu en es responsable;
Rien ne peut expliquer, rien ne peut justifier ce que nous avons vu sur cette vidéo;
Tous les vrais Guerriers de la Lumiere sont profondément émus, révoltés et joignent leurs mains pour lutter avec toi contre cette horreur.
Dr. András Béres, Hongrie.
je t’embrasse cher Andras
xxx
Writing from Chicago,Illinois USA,
I had an Iranian dorm mate in college while attending Menlo College in Menlo Park, California in the late 1970’s and he would tell me about the things the Shah’s Savak agents would do.
In watching the video of the Dr. trying to save the life of that beautiful young woman named Neda, I was reminded of my Iranian friends storys.
The dictatorial Mullahs in Iran are evil.
Nobody who actually believed in a real god would allow the oppression and killing that is going on against the peaceful demonstrators in Iran.
As an American, I am appaled and digusted that our President Obama has taken a tepid approach at condeming the people ruling Iran and there ghastly abuse of the peaceful Iranian demonstrators..
It is not Americas role to tell Iran who and how Iran should be governed but it is America’s role to stand for Freedom and the Right to demonstrate peacefully without being beaten down or shot dead in cold blood.
I pray for the people of Iran.
God is Green
Fight Iran, Fight. Vamos, Vamos, que siguen peleando!!! Never give up on democracy, for every action, step, voice, prayer, breath will get you closer to your dream of freedom. For all humans, god, allah, is one, the love he emanates is one for all. Keep fighting Iran, we Americans, and the World are supporting you, watching every step you take, and grieving with you during this difficult time.
While we make think Obama is not saying enough, maybe he is being very wise, for if he says too much, it will only invite more hatred and blame on the US and outside world, it is much easier to blame other countries than to look at the shortcomings of Iranian politics, the acquisition of power at all cost in the hands of the elite few, including , and sadly enough, their greatest iman in power. Mr. Khameni. Fight Iran, never give up.
Gosh I have goosebumps from reading this.
Thank God that he is save and alright. I wish the same for his family. It never ceased to amaze me that sometimes God’s hand work in a mysterious way.
God bless you.
Love,
Astrid
I’m interested to read why he had to leave the country?
o god me too. why would you leave your people and thoes who are in need alone? he knew what was going on in Iran’s hospitals he knew his help was needed so much in the streets of tehran and he left? wow? what a great doctor.
I agree with you. he should think twice after what has happened to NEDA, he would have been a great help to those protesters that were injured.
He has only two options: leave the country or leave the world. In Iran is not permitted to participate in demonstration
La vie, comme nous disons, n’est pas toujours en ” ROSE “. Surtout elle est très cruelle.
Et pourquoi pour avoir la force nous devons nous métamorphoser en animaux sauvages ?
Monsieur Paulo vous avez retrouvé votre amis dans une mauvaise situation, alors qu’il était entrain de faire un acte humanitaire.
“Vous voyez comme la vie est bizarre”.
It is not just the world watching, but God as well. The monsters that rule Iran with an iron fist will be running for their lives.
Keep on fighting Iran, don’t give up.
I agree with your comment and hope that there will be no further bloodshed. I am impressed at the courage of the Iranian people who courageously stand up for injustice and risk their lives to stand up for what is right.
Chorei vendo este video. Na Tv passa diariamente cenas como estas, as pessoas se acustumaram a almoçar e ver as bombas explodirem e as balas perdidas que se acham em crianças inocentes. Várias doutrinas tentam me mostrar que nada é por acaso, que morremos da forma que precisamos, que se não aprendemos pelo amor vamos aprender pela dor. Más isso ainda nao aquieta meu coração, nao tampa minha indignação. Onde está o povo que sempre fez a história mudar? Aqueles a favor da não violencia? Planto várias sementes de amor más mesmo assim me sinto inútil a ver tanta violencia. Fica aqui o meu triste desabafo.
La vie, comme nous disons, n’est pas toujours en ” ROSE “. Surtout elle est très cruelle. Et pourquoi pour avoir la force nous devons nous métamorphoser en animaux sauvages ?
Monsieur Pauio vous avez retrouvé votre amis dans une mauvaise situation, alors qu’il était entrain de faire un acte humanitaire.
” Vous voyez comme la vie est bizarre “
Dear shahrzad (sherezade), the history of Neda is only one of the 1001 crimes of Ahmadinejad.
Chers Shahrzad (sherezade), l’histoire de Neda n’est que l’un des 1.001 crimes d’Ahmadinejad.
Querida Shahrzad (Sherezade), la historia de Neda es sólo uno de los 1001 crimenes de Ahmadinejad.
Shahrzad (sherezade), a história de Neda é apenas um de dos 1001 de Ahmadinejad.
phew! thank god he’s ok. so he said it’s ok to disclose his name now?
well hope it ends well and ends soon.
love
Dear Paulo,
It’s so sad that something as horrible as this could happen…I was in Tehran one week before the elections…and I really admire the courage of the young people there who were shouting that it’s time for a change…I have Iranian friends and colleagues who were hopeful to experience something better and I can only smile in awe seeing so many people march on the streets of Tehran…eventhough I am not from Iran, I was proud that I was a part of that momentuous event…
I support the people of Iran…I have heard their stories…and I strongly feel that it’s time for a change…
Dear Arash,
I am glad you are safe! I am praying for your wife and son, as well!
Paulo,
You are a great friend and human being!
Take care and may Neda’s death not be in vain….
Dear Paulo, Thanks for sharing that Arash is safe now.Please keep on writing on the blog about the other prioners and activists in Teharn.
Arash,
Although Neda unfortunately passed away, you were a comfort to her in her last moments as well as a hero not only to her but to the rest of us in the world. You can only do so much with what you have however, sometimes things are out of our hands. I hope where ever you, your wife and son are that you all re-unite soon and know again that you are a hero.
Paulo,
What an amazing friend you are. Very smart on how you proceeded to confirm your friend’s identity. You too are to be commended for your actions.
I hope and pray that things in Iran improve for the better for its citizens so that they may enjoy the comforts and relative safety
enjoyed by so many in America.
Neda’s death is NOT in vain no matter what the outcome of the election. She has already fueled the hearts and minds of many Iranians.
Isidro
thank God.tell me please if I can help.
well as i’ve seen, for my part and for the rest of the world it had been one of those videos (only) that shocks, but it had been a real matter for your friend, i’ve lived the same experience, a young woman died in my arms,and i wasnt able to do anything,she was struggling in my arms, then i herd something that sounds like a whisper and i still hear it… he dont have to feel guilty the sniper hadnt left her a chance, a bullet right in the heart, i dont think he would have done something especially without any kit. Thanks to you Paulo for sharing this.
Dear Paulo,
we share your relief as for Doctor Arash.
And now my question is: what can I do in order to help him and his family? I live in Italy and I am a lawyer.
Just get in touch if I can be of use.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
Love,
Rossana Curri
Just received an update from Tehran, that the basij militia are attacking people with axes .. Please do something , can you believe what this regim is doing to people. Please help them be heard. I can’t breathe………. is it real?
paulo,
my heart aches for everyone involved. i know many are saying that the loss of this glorious spirit has put a new face on what seems to be a never-ending battle… maybe even an impetus for resolve. i see it differently… neda was a daughter, a friend, a sister (?), a lover (?), a colleague, a HUMAN! maybe god’s last gift was that she was placed in his hands by your dear, courageous friend. i pray for continued safety for he and his family. most of all i pray for peace.
blessings and love,
lisa
dear Paulo
thks for shering this with us, im happy for him and his family that he returned home safe.
hugs
u r the best :)
Thank you for letting us know. Thank goodness he and his family are safe. I hope he will not be hunted down. Hats off also to Luis Antonio Ryff. He gave up a scoop and saved a life.
Great News please keep save!!
Dear Paulo,
Thank you for posting these updates.Good to hear about the doctor’s safety and at the same time shocked to learn that a doctor has to leave his country for trying to save a dying girl.
May Neda’s memory and martyrdom remain as a light to guide not only the Iranians but also the whole world towards freedom.
Dr. Ramesh K.C.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Dear Paulo:
Thank you for the updates…and thank God he made it safe!!!… it was horrible what happened to Neda… Freedom will never be silenced… her name means voice… and she will be speaking even through her tomb… I will leave you with this quote:
There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires.
Nelson Mandela
My thoughts and prayers are with Neda’s family, may God confort them always.
I am very happy to hear this good news.
Thanks Paulo for making this kind of sad things public because you only know this things happens if you have lived something similar. something as truthfull as you has a deep impact.
I hope this leads into a conscience change and helps freedom $ dignity to find its ways on Iran and other countries like mine (Venezuela) who are living this kind of situations nowadays.
God bless you good Doctor
God bless you Paulo & friends.
God bless you sir!
Thanks God that Arash arrived in London!!, When reading the emails I was anxious and just hopping he had the blessing to make it. Thanks for sharing and Please keep yourself save!!!
Maritza
As an iranian myself, i am happy that arash is back to england safe. May neda rests in peace..
OMG . thanks God he can escape . please do something for my people Mr.Paulo ! they are alone …
God bless you and him and Neda, Sr. Coelho. I cannot put it into words.
I cried so much when i seen this clip of Neda,it awoke me to the situation she is one voice,Im happy your friend made it out of there and my heart goes out to all that have the courage to use their voice.
Paulo,
You are truly an amazing friend and I am very thankful Arash is safe. May his heart find peace after all that he has seen and may he and his family always be safe from harm.
Joe
i cryed when i sow this video….who can do somethin like zat???glad zat ur friend are safe now…
Like “The Whole World is Watching” Protest of 1968, Neda’s death has changed the world. People who support this kind of behavior in Iran have shown their true colors and there is no way to defend what has been done. With our very own eyes, The Whole World has watched something horrific & I hope that people from all walks of life, nationalities, races & creeds come together to give the oppressed justice. WE are the pavers of the future…the responsibility is with us!
I’m glad that Arash is ok. He and his family is ok. Let’s pray for the others in Iran. For people who fights for freedom and democraxy against molla regime (notIslam)
Like the commenters above, you had me worried! So glad the doctor is safe.
Thank you very much for blogging this. I am incredibly suspicious of the news reports we are getting on the events in Iran. The fear and bravery in Arash’s last email really hit me. I hope my friends are as intuitive as you if I am ever in a similar situation.
Oi Paulo!
Agradeço a DEUS que pelo menos, temos esta BOA NOTÍCIA!!!
Fiquei muito preocupada naquele dia. Achava que haveria um MODERADOR antes do comentário ser publicado e fiquei realmente surpresa quando, logo em seguida, ele apareceu na minha tela. Felizmente, falava que ainda seria avaliado. Fiquei rezando para que só eu estivesse lendo.
Infelizmente, as NOTÍCIAS do que tem acontecido HOJE são bem tristes… Nos resta continuar a nossa batalha pedindo a DEUS que nos ABENÇOE!!!
Muito obrigada por ter parado de me seguir. Naquele curto espaço de tempo foi absurdo os pedidos de novos seguidores que precisei rejeitar. Com tantos fãs que você tem, poderia ser bem perigoso!!!
No entanto, ainda é possível ter acesso em off.
Um grande abraço e lembre-se de sempre mandar um APOIO para eles. Neste MOMENTO, tenho certeza que é muito IMPORTANTE!!!
thank god that DR. and his family are safe now.
love and thanks
to dear paulo and our DR.
i am proud to be iranian
Thank God he is safe , thx Paulo
Shaima
While reading through the emails I was holding my breath… what a relief to know that Arash is safe! I also admire u very much as a friend who is ready to do the impossible to help those in need. Thank you very much for showing us another great sample of unconditional love.
God bless you.
Gabi
paulo,
i hope arash arrived safely and he is able to rest up . please look after him.
I am happy to know he has arrived safely in London and we can now know his identity. I have been in touch with Hamed, who received the video from him initially and posted it to the Internet, since Saturday when he first got the video, and I know he was trying hard to make sure his friend, and yours, stayed safe by not revealing his name. My hat is off to him for his bravery in trying to help Neda and in getting the video safely out of Iran and into Hamed’s hands so the rest of the world could view it.
I am so very glad that he and his family are safe. Please extend my warmest regards for his health and well-being. I am honoured to know a man like him exists in our world. Please thank him for all he has done.
This is one of the scariest blog posts I’ve read, during a very scary 10 days. I am so, so grateful that Arash is safe. I hope he will be able to speak out now; but mostly I hope that he and his family are all right.
Please God, doctor Hejazi and his family will be fine! How sad he has to escape his home country like this, in a panic situation, sounding so scared. He instructed you to withhold his name, which indicates to me, he is scared for his life. Your contact with him in this crisis must be of so much support to him. He trust you with information about his wife and children! This is true friendship, to be there for each other.
My heart goes out to all the wonderful people from Iran..Persia! Our beautiful Carolina. God bless your soul. I just heard there are 1 million Iranians living in Los Angeles. My personal dentist, here in Arizona, is a brilliant man …he always says, he is from Persia. When will the leaders finally understand they need to change, to get their own people to stay at home and not leave the suppression? When they realize what a huge loss it is to loose those wonderful brave souls who stand up, by going away from it. Let’s keep the Hejazi family in our prayers. The good fight isn’t over yet.
Dear Paulo,
I have read all your book which translated in Persian by Arash. He is a kind of your face for me. I love him as much as I love you and your books. I recognized him the first min I saw Neda’s video. I am glad he is safe and thanks a lot for updating us with this.
Thank God that he arrived safely. Hope he and his family are in no danger and protected.
Thank God for hearing our prayers… I presume however, that he and his family will, under the current regime, never be able to return home…?
wow I didn’t recognize him in the video.
Now I am in US but back in Iran I knew You and Love your books by Arash’s translation and maybe even more than you I respect him!
Thanks God he is Ok now.
Wish my people luck.
We are all affraid for our friends and familly there.
I hope Arash will be able to tell the story of what he has seen on the streets now he is in the UK. Thanks for letting us know the information Paulo.
I pray his wife and son are safe and sound and the family will be united soon again.
I am very happy! very good news!
Amazing! Thank God he made it safe! So sad to have to fight (die) for human rights when it should be something so available as water or air. I feel for Iran. Similar fate in my country Nicaragua, many people suffering from the opression of comunism. When will they realize it is a dead end road?
Thank you Mr.Paulo for keeping us posted!
You are a warrior of light! Thank God your friend arrive safe and that you had the courage to shine light on what is going on. God Bless. Peace, Emma
It is a joy to hear pleasant news..
Thank you Paulo Coelho, for being there and for your bravery .. I feel proud of you. I know now for sure, that you are not just a famous, successful writer.. You are the Bright Warrior of the Light that we can rely on. The Rock but the Flowing River too.
May God always take care of you.
LOVE,
Thelma.
Paulo,
Very happy to hear that Doc is safe.But, would much to have Doc’s words as a reliable source.
Hugs
NV
I have been holding my breath for him. Thank you for the update. My hope for his family.
God bless you.
Dear Paulo,
Thank you for taking the time and caring enough to inform us about this particular situation. It’s heartbreaking to see the youth and many others fighting for truth. I can relate as this particular situation reminds me a lot of what has happened and continues to happen in Venezuela with Chavez. Thanks again and best wishes to you as always.
I am very happy for your friend, her family and yourself… the strength is one of gifts of the Holy Spirit… that the best remains to come.
Bless your heart Mr. Coelho. The people of Iran need all the eyes of the world watching…
Thank God.
And thank you, Paulo, for taking a stand. For your courage.
“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality”.
-Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
yes true
Till the moment that i read the last line of this post dear Paulo, my heart was pounding like crazy..
Thank God he has arrived safe..
Love and Graditude
Annie
The man does know how to write :D
All silly jokes aside , thank god that he’s ok .