January 20, 2009 was an incredible day. Already I believe 2009 will be a very good year. President Obama thank you for giving hope back to us and for making me feel safe again. I can finally take a deep breath and breathe again. I did not realize how much fear I had been living with for the past eight years until you arrived. The fear of World War 3. Fear for my father, a good man, who loves his country and who wants to serve his country but the country happens to be Iran. Fear to cross the U.S. boarder to visit my mother and sister. You see, I was born in Iran and left the country when I was five. I have not been back since and my legal surname is Collins yet for the past 7 years I get asked the same questions. When were you in Iran last? Have you been back? Are you planning on visiting? My answer is always no and that is the truth but as my husband Sean says “wouldn’t YOU want to go back to your country of birth? Wouldn’t you want to go and visit your father? Don’t you have a right to go anywhere on this planet that you want to visit? Shouldn’t that be a fundamental human right?” But you see I get it because ultimately I am an immigrant who comes from a place that is politcally not in favour at the moment.  But, President Obama, you understand what it means to be segragated. You listen, and will compromise, negotaiate and be more understanding and that gives me hope. The universe has given us a gift. You. I believe with time you will help make this planet a better place where no matter where you come from or where you live you can feel that you belong and have a vested interest in its future. Thank you for bringing back hope and for letting us breathe in peace.  Here is hoping we unite, shake off the fear and pursue a world filled with respect, understanding and kindness.

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