Happy, Nowruz, happy spring

As we approach the Iranian New Year

Nowruz, we prepare to celebrate the arrival of spring and the new year with a special ritual. We set up a Sofreh, a table on which we place seven symbolic items that all start with the letter "س" (pronounced as "seen"), the 15th letter in the Persian alphabet. This "haftsin" represents renewal, health, happiness, and abundance.

In addition to the haftsin, we also place a book on the table, often Hafez's poetry book, a candle, and some Iranian hand-made candy or shirini. When the new year arrives, the family gathers around the table and lights the candles. They then open Hafez's divan and read the first ghazal they see. In this way, they ask Hafez to predict the future year. Then, they eat candy and wish each other a happy new year.

However, this year, our joy is tempered by the events happening in Iran. The brutal regime of IRI has killed many young girls and boys and arrested thousands of innocent people. As a result, many of our loved ones are absent from the ceremony. This year, I wish for peace and freedom for everyone worldwide. I hope that no young person will be killed or tortured because of their beliefs and that the people of Iran will finally achieve their long-awaited freedom. No one should be arrested for protesting against their government, and we must all work towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of race, gender, or beliefs, can live freely and with dignity.

As we celebrate Nowruz, I extend our wishes for health and happiness to everyone, regardless of nationality, religion, or gender. I hope this year will be good for all inhabitants of the planet. Happy Spring and Happy New Year!