Phase I --Part I [Engaging the Battle]

Babak Khorram-Din

22 Bahman is YOUR revolution festival day --no matter how it turns out! It is the day you step forward together, to take back your country. Many of you may die, and many others beaten, arrested, imprisoned, tortured, tried before courts of mockery, and forced to make false "confessions." The people know all of this, but they also know it is your day of honor, and they will stand with you in pride for your courage and determination. Indeed, freedom-loving people across the world are holding you close to their hearts. The bonfires of freedom you have ignited will burst forth upon the land once more, upon the land that is yours; once more, you must engage the battle. May the spirit of Babak Khorram-Din the warrior embolden your hearts, strengthen your hands, and steel your wills to bravery. Once more, engage the battle!

Every single individual warrior must engage this day, and every band of warriors the same. The very critical issue is that the battle be engaged in your own way --burning with fire in each heart. Try not to be concerned that the diversity of how others enter the struggle is unlike yours. Your great strength in this battle IS that diversity, held together by one cry for "Freedom!" Some may march, while others mind the makeshift medical clinics, while others glue posters to walls, at the same time still others paint slogans. I know of one strike force, a band of students, who have decided it is too dangerous to protest at the university anymore, so they have formed themselves into a group to prepare them to enter politics. These are worthy warriors as much as any others! It is, I think, now impossible that everyone will struggle in a non-violent way, because some are already prepared to fight back in self-defense. These are your brothers and sisters as well; many of their bodies will be broken too, and they deserve respect, even if you don't agree with their tactics.

This is also a time for alliances, hastily but sincerely assembled as quickly as possible. Perhaps your strike force could contact a specific union, to encourage their participation, and to let them know the new Iran will not leave them behind, as has been done in the past. I am also aware of some military personnel who "want" to join with the people, but are afraid of being executed by a new regime because of being part of the current one (that did happen after 1979). Let it be known publicly that this will not happen, that anyone siding with the people is forgiven any past. Multiple postings on Twitter can help with this. Here are some examples ..."New Iran: Be it resolved, the death penalty for any crime is hereby abolished forever, and may not be reinstated for any reason." "New Iran: Be it resolved, ethnic regions will form self-governing autonomous provinces, and have a seat in national government." "New Iran: Be it resolved, any official or member of the military siding with the people, are hereby exonerated from any wrongdoing under IRI, and are forgiven." One of the most difficult elements to allow this forgiveness for is basij. But they number over a million, so will we be even worse than this current regime or the Shah, killing them all? They must be incorporated into national reconciliation, and given the opportunity to be healed from their terrible deeds by forgiveness. Please.

The above Twitter technique could also be used to help form the beginnings of a constitutional congress, or at least field ideas to be considered by one. The same format as above could be used, but adding the words, "If Agree RT." It then becomes a method of voting, and participation in what is being formed. Yes, of course there will be people who don't like a given idea ...but their views deserve to be heard too. Maybe your strike force could take on the responsibility of the campaign on line. Multiple strike forces taking on similar activities begin to move towards a real committee/congress and helps towards a synthesis. "New Iran: Be it resolved, everyone is free to believe whatever religion they wish. If Agree RT." "New Iran: Be it resolved, women and men are treated equally under the law. If Agree RT."

WARNING: Nothing of your activities online should be saved to your hard drive. Save only to an external, portable memory. The same should be done for any resistance art, brochures, or personal letters.

Thank you for allowing me to participate with you in your struggle for democracy as you define it. I will keep watch with you November 11. In the mean time ...

***more to come***

Phase I -- Part H [Revolution Winds]

Blog author, M.J. McCoy, in support of Iranian Freedom Patriots

I held off writing this current entry, until results of recent events became more clear, and possible trends identified. In addition, I wanted to verify information as to which way the wind is blowing for the Resistance Patriots in Iran. Here it is, so let's continue together.

The wind blowing across Iran is called "revolution," and I certainly did not anticipate your arriving at that point so quickly --although I did think you would eventually. What I am hearing from you, as is obvious to many analysts (of which those living it live are the most qualified) is that thirty years of repression is enough; thirty years of religious dogmatism is enough; thirty years of mass executions is enough; thirty years of torturing is enough; thirty years of being lied to by those in authority is enough; thirty years living in fear is enough; thirty years of systematic rape is enough; thirty years of betrayals and broken promises is enough; thirty years of being owned by a government that is nothing but a gang of self-serving cronies is enough; thirty years of suppression of free speech, journalists and brilliant intellectuals is enough; thirty years of a court system that cannot be trusted to render justice is enough; thirty years of being beaten up, kicked, knifed, shot-down and brutalized by a fanatic cult of basij is enough! "Enough" IS enough, already, and we've had it ...so resign, or prepare to be destroyed. We WILL have our dream of a hundred years for democracy, or die fighting for it.

Am I hearing you correctly?

There is, my friends, a time to make peace, and there is a time to make love --and I'm sorry to say it, but now is the time to fight. Certainly, for the greens, it has been a rightful badge of honor to be credited worldwide as non-violent. Nevertheless, that can no longer be strictly said, can it? This time, at least some of you fought back in self-defense, physically attacking security forces, and doing a good job of it, I might add. Even yet, many are holding to Gandhi's path and what Dr. Gene Sharp teaches. I admire all of you, those who fought back and those who didn't ...and so did the rest of the world admire the great courage demonstrated by you all. You must choose your own way to "fight" in this struggle, but fight, we all must.

It seems to me, neither Gandhi's method, nor Dr. Sharp's type of velvet revolution, could anticipate the brand of a regime you now face. In Gandhi's case, while the British at times acted brutally, they were already overextended, and lacked the stomach ("it wouldn't be civilized") for continued wholesale slaughter, so he won. Dr. Sharp's scenarios seem valid to me only if the regime in question responds to worldwide pressures, and also has no stomach for endless carnage.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has already slaughtered literally thousands of its citizens, thinks nothing of torture, rape, murder, unspeakable cruelties, and fanaticism to continue mayhem, for however long it takes to destroy the opposition. No need to mention its view of world opinion. Consequently, what I'm saying here is that you've got an unprecedented situation to tackle, one with only some similarities to other models. Maybe you will do well to consider an approach utilizing both non-violent and combative at the same time, as well as other resistance techniques such as work stoppages, civil disobedience, and others, etc. There are many ways to fight in both models, but these are the hard decisions that are yours alone to make. You will need to press on with your own strategic planning, and the decisions are not easy ones.

This is an extremely dangerous phase, so we must move quickly, and yet with all the skill possible. There are many scenarios posing very real perils, not the least of which would be a sudden (sooner or later) collapse of the current regime. If this were to happen right now, the very possible likelihood would be total chaos for months, if not years, as various factions will be battling to fill the power vacuum. The resistance patriots need a plan for an interim government ASAP! (Possible ways to accomplish this will be discussed later.)

Here are some thoughts on how I see the regime plans (needing to be addressed in your planning also) to "deal" with the resistance patriots, non-violent and/or combative:

• Kill as many participants as necessary, with a lot more "disappearances," and mass public executions.
• Marginalize student leadership by intimidation, blackballing from university and various professions.
• Continued use of basij to terrorize the general population into inaction.
• Continued prosecutions in kangaroo courts, complete with more fake confessions.
• Allow only hard line mullahs into public positions, and religious instruction of the people.
• Use of Revolutionary Guards to enforce the SL's pronouncements, even if that means using heavy weapons (such as tanks) against so-called "rioters."
• Increased 'management' of communication media.

All of which is designed to finally wear down resistance until the movement ceases to exist, and things go back to the way they were before the election protests.

There has been some discussion of the regular army coming to the defense of the people. In that scenario, I cannot see any way that the IRG will stand down, which would then likely devolve into civil war. Regions would then likely begin to struggle for their own autonomy, adding to the confusion and collective hardships. Who knows the outcome of this?

However, again, things are not hopeless, as the Iranian people have proven brilliant in reinventing themselves a number of times in their history. You can do it again, just keep going, talking, and brainstorming together within your groups. The next entry will make possible suggestions for tactics which you can consider ...but begin listing your own.

In the mean time, please examine two other blogs for ideas, and to which I also subscribe:

1. Help and Hope for the Green, by Blkpaw, for non-violent preparedness.
2. Guardians-of-Cyrus, combative considerations and ideas.

They are both listed in my profile to this blog, if you just want to click on them. Both contain some serious information. Lastly, for now, please consider the following reflection ...

"We are warriors for we fight to be the best we can be, not compared to any other, but within ourselves, the best for our own destiny.

We are warriors, for we contend in defense of the weak, the defenseless, the children and aged.

We are warriors, for we struggle to attain true wisdom, to follow excellent qualities of conduct, to be praiseworthy in truth of heart, exalted deeds and the path of spirit.

We are warriors, heroes together, for we stand courageous in loyalty to each other, to truth and responsibility for our own actions.

We are warriors, for we battle for the freedom of all people to determine their own destiny, and become the best they can be --without manipulation from anyone.

This is why we carry with pride the name warrior. We are Warriors in Both Worlds. Warriors of Truth.

We are Warrior Bands together."

***more to come***

Phase I - Part G [Afirmation of Repudiation]

When beginning this manifesto back in September, I described your movement as a civil rights movement in the making. Well, you have gone much beyond that now. 16 Azar galvanized into a true freedom and liberty movement, and demonstrated the resolve to do whatever it takes ...for however long it takes, but that there is no going back. Between now and the next public outpouring of green resistance, still there is much need for continued strategic planning.

The dictators with the smiling faces are yet waiting in the wings, in the forms of "national unity" proposals and a possible complete, blatant military takeover. If the regime collapsed today, what would take its place? There needs to be a planned transition to democracy, without a bloodbath if possible, and not enough alliances have been solidly made to accomplish that ...as yet. (We'll get back to that in the next section.) For now, please consider the following "Affirmation of Repudiation" as my attempt (from a distance) to verbalize what seemed to me was the thrust of your most recent protests. Whatever your new government will look like in the end (hopefully by your design) the movement needs a declaration of intent. If this one works, use it, if not ...rewrite it so that you "feel" yourself sucked into it. It is your future.

_____

AFFIRMATION OF REPUDIATION

WE THE FAMILIES
of the Nation of Iran, the rightful heirs of the land and culture of our ancestors, who are the inheritors of all our natural resources and other benefits of this great land, and who are by nature born free with the right to self-determination and governance, together with one voice in unison, hereby REPUDIATE the Illegitimate and Dictatorial so-called "Islamic Republic of Iran" together with its system and officials, from this day forward we disavow you altogether.

To the entire world, we proclaim our just reasons for spewing you out of our mouths, and for despicable crimes, we trample your names under our feet:

1. Through your deceit and treachery, you have denied justice and due recourse and safety to the people.
2. You have illegally arrested the innocent, and contrived false charges against them.
3. You have viciously tortured those taken as captives by your illegal bands of gangsters.
4. You have literally raped our young men and young women, and then tried to cover it up.
5. You have hanged to death our children without pity.
6. You have imprisoned anyone who dares to disagree with you, and extracted false confessions to justify your treacheries.
7. You have murdered yet untold numbers of our people, trying to make them disappear in hidden unmarked graves ...but we will find them all.
8. You have squandered the resources belonging to the people through adventurism abroad, while lining your pockets with wealth exploited from the people.
9. You have, by your parochial insistence, made us into a laughingstock among educated and civilized nations, where once we were respected as scholars and scientists.
10. You have claimed to lead us in the path of true religion, but instead by your actions have shown us the face of true evil.

WE HEREBY SIGN THIS REPUDIATION by our own blood, declaring our just right to form ourselves into a SECULAR DEMOCRATIC NATION, and declare your names written into infamy, along with all other despicable tyrannical butchers of history. Here we stand, resolved!

***more to come***

Phas I - Part F [16 Azar Dangers]

In my judgment, the 16 Azar demonstration/resistance/outcry threatens to be the most potentially ominous of any to date. I hope the events as they transpire will prove me wrong, and that finally justice and freedom for Iranians will prevail. Nevertheless, it is always better to be prepared as best as possible, and at least to be aware of potential, if not probable dangers at hand. Drawing from sources in Iran, the Diaspora, published foreign intelligence commentaries, "trends" in online discussions, together with public statements and past actions by the illegitimate regime, the following seems quite likely:

• All communication, landline & mobile, will be suspended. (Take pictures anyway, if your device has sufficient internal memory, and broadcast to the world later.)
• Public transportation will likely be limited, and some lines suspended, to restrict protester movement. (Travel the afternoon/night before, get as close to assembly point as possible, and stay the night with family or friends, or sleep the night under cover of wherever you can, and huddle together. This latter option needs food and water to be brought with you, as well as toilet paper. Next day, walk TOGETHER to designated location.)
• The Chief of Police has promised to turn Tehran into a "police city," so the brutality of security forces and basij may be the most unrestrained that it has been so far. (See "Safety" below.)
• Even greater number of arrests may be attempted than in the past; once in regime custody, then once again all holds may be off on the treatment of prisoners ...as bad if not worse than before. (See "Self-defense" below.)

Safety Recommendations:

• Put flat newspapers inside your clothing for transport to assembly point...once there, then wad-up each sheet and stuff back into clothes as "padding." It will be bulky, but will not hinder movement, and it will offer limited protection against body blows. Don't forget inside trouser legs, and groin too. Lots of paper!
• Wear over-the-head and shoulders "water lifesaving jackets" as minimum body armor. Combine with above.
• "Safety in numbers" could not be a truer axiom for protesters and resistance patriots of all kinds, so group together and pull each other to safety, and/or out of the clutches of guards or basij. If all else fails, as a "crowd," held together arms-in-arm, charge (yelling a battle cry) the guards and basij to retrieve those captured.
• During our Irish revolution against the British, we used the round metal trash can lids found everywhere for three things: 1) scores of people (generally children, at the same time doing a kind of defiant street dance) would "crash" them about on the ground, sounding warning (primitive cell phone) that police and troops were coming, 2) "crashing" them loudly together (and yelling) as a warning that we were about to charge the "royal" police (psychological warfare), and 3) as minimal shields against first blows, and then to swing and smash them into the faces of the regime forces, ...or, once they were a bit battered, then to "sail" them through the air into their faces.

Self-defense:

This is the most problematic of all topics for resistance patriots, as it generates the most divergence of opinions and even technique. Years ago I told a friend of mine, a native military officer from India, that I'd decided to become a non-combatant and to refuse violence of all kinds ...just like Gandhi. His smile was kind enough, as he replied, "No you haven't. I know you; you are a warrior, and have only just exchanged the type of weapons with which you choose to fight for others. I am Indian, and we know that the methods Gandhi selected to fight the British were regarded by them to do violence to their empire. Even non-violence does violence to repression, my friend."

OK, perhaps we cannot settle all the implications of this right now, as the press of 16 Azar is propelling us forward. But certainly options need to be considered carefully, along with the possible consequences. All I can plead is please be careful, and stay as safe as you can. Some things to consider:

• I am convinced that any attempt to defend yourselves, even if non-violent in the sense of non-lethal, will be treated by this regime as an act of violence by an enemy of the revolution. It will escalate their retaliatory carnage against the people.
• If the people act to rescue each other from arrest (which I strongly recommend that you attempt to do, because of the treatment that awaits all captives), by breaking the windows and pulling them off buses, surrounding basij vans and pulling people out, pushing basij to the ground (as tenderly as possible) and disarming them, taking keys to handcuffs to free people, etc. It will all be regarded by this regime as violent rioting ...and will be met with greater violence in return.
• Some people, it seems, have already resolved to use non-lethal self-defense techniques and weapons. Home made pepper spray in squirt bottles, smoke "bombs," flash distractions like "tennis ball grenades," etc. are examples. It should, in all honesty, be pointed out that non-lethal weapons should actually read as "generally non-lethal," because in fluky situations they "can" be lethal, or at least physically damaging. Example: a tennis ball grenade accidentally striking someone's face, exploding and taking out an eye, etc. This is not to say don't use them, but rather to be aware of the risks. Tennis ball grenades can be great help as a distraction in mounting a full retreat.
• For those who are resolved to use whatever force and/or weapons necessary, I can only say that I understand the desperation ...even if I think the decision is not at all timely or perhaps practical right now. However, if you have chosen, then know that everything about you is a potential weapon, and I mean everything! Your thumb in someone's eye, your fountain pen is a dagger, your belt with a buckle a distracting whip, hubcaps with edges sharpened by filing are aerial, whirling knife blades (sail them through the air upside down, i.e. inside facing up), a tire iron is a bludgeon, pieces of pipe spears, [there is probably not enough time to get ready with this next one, but here it is for later if you have really abandoned non-violence]: a single lightweight curved, auto leaf spring from wrecking yards ...for leg-pulled bows (laying on your back like ancient Persian bowmen, look it up in your library for ideas), with arrows from rigid antennas or thin aluminum pipe with front smashed tight (practice with this one, because you can tear the skin right off your legs with the wire bow string if not careful), and rocks laying about, etc. If neighborhoods are attacked again by the basij in the middle of the night (or any time), weapons can be old TV's thrown off buildings or from windows on them below, or chairs or anything, a pole lamp as an underarm lance for frontal ground level attack, damaged (from first raids) satellite discs (file every 6" to make a razor sharp edge that is about 3" long, on around the whole thing, with occasional hacksaw points cut out of the edge as well) can be sailed off roofs into guards or basij [probably not enough time for that one either, this time], and bricks thrown off of buildings, etc. Please understand, such will likely bring out troop carriers and regular military into the streets against you, so you will need to follow through by capturing weapons wherever/from whomever you can, and don't forget to collect the ammunition as well. My heart is heavy for all of you, as I'm afraid it is far too early for such actions. But I'm getting indications that some of you are here already. Get lots of bandages.

In whatever way you have chosen to resist on 16 Azar, my heart and mind is with you. Please, please try hard to not become like them ...brutal, and without mercy. It is appropriate for opposing warriors of all types to do battle, but when the other is defeated, do not forget pity and forgiveness ...lest you become non-human, which would be to become non-Persian. Be strong; be brave!

______

POST SCRIPT: Non-violent resistance can, in fact, win out in the end. It will, however, likely prove to be a quite lengthy process, with very many casualties. The current situation seems to be walking on a razor's edge, without clear indication of whether non-violence or resorting to armed resistance will be the enduring standard. Should many resort to arms of any kind, it is more than likely peaceful demonstrators will be viewed as one and the same with the violent. Think about it. Please know that I'm walking this with you ...without any condemnation of whatever your decisions may be. May it be freedom for Iran's people, and peace, and safety.

***more to come***

Phase I - Part E [Back to Your Persian Future]

(For an entire month, I've been trying to dig my way out of severe writer's block. It was only after reading Healing for the Green Soul that I realized the source was rooted in the daily traumas perpetrated against the people of Iran. I had not grieved properly for loss of Ali, nor was I tending to my own agony, being so closely allied with the people, and my outrage for the atrocities being done to you. These atrocities are an enormity committed against the Iranian people, as well as all the people of the world! I'm able to grieve now, and I think we will need to weep often together in the months ahead.)

However, let us go back to build your future for yourselves; 16 Azar is almost upon us, and so much remains to be done to prepare as best we can. My friends, I will be on the streets protesting where I live, in solidarity with you on that day.

Have you ever heard the saying, "It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness"? Well, in that I'm a Celt, I don't agree with it anyway. This is what I would say, "It is better to curse the wretched darkness, and then to light a huge bonfire!" Through your strategic planning and tactics developed, you are lighting a fire that will consume this regime and all its darkness. Your tactics are the lighters, and your strategy planning is the lighter fluid that will burn this illegitimate government to the ground. Let's continue with steps in strategic planning, as you are already running so far ahead in your resistance activities and cry for freedom. I'm proud of all of you brave people!

The main key to good strategic planning is a clear understanding of what you want to happen as the result of all your activities. At the summit of your grand plan is the stated overall objective, i.e. the realization of your dream. Every other goal must serve to help realize the fulfillment of your grand vision for the future. Devise a simple statement that defines it, and then place it at the top of your plan's diagram. If you support Dr. Sharp's stated objective, then get it up in front of you and your group. (I use large sheets of paper stuck to a wall where we're meeting together.) I've come to believe the sea of green wants 'freedom.' However, what this means and how to get there seems to be different between various constituent parts of the movement. Don't worry about that fact right now, and just get a consensus within your group of 3-9 people. The more individual groups who engage in this activity will help produce a greater likelihood of a larger negotiated compromise during phase II & III. And certainly there will need to be compromises between the various constituents. So, get it up there --as "Our Dream Is:"

The establishment of a free society
with a democratic system of government.

Now, then, how will you recognize it when it happens? Define what you mean by it, and write it down on your diagram. Here are some ideas to consider, but you must decide for yourselves.

1. Where the death penalty is abolished forever, no matter the nature of the crime, and may not be reinstated for any reason --even in the time of war.
2. Where women and men are treated equally under the law.
3. Where minorities of all kinds are protected without discrimination.
4. Where it is the right and duty of citizens to replace the government if and when it becomes oppressive and/or abusive.
5. Where the ethnic and culturally unique provinces are self-governing autonomous regions of the one complete nation of Iran.
6. Where all religions are protected, and everyone is free to believe whichever one they wish, without harassment, seizure of property or discrimination.
7. Where religion is not supported by the government nor is granted any favored status under the law.
8. Where religion is not allowed to meddle in the politics of the whole nation, including autonomous regions.
9. Where the central government is small, and the regional governments large.
10. Where the military does not engage in private enterprise in any fashion, or in the politics of our nation.
11. Where the military swears to uphold the central and regional constitutions, by defending the people from any foe whether external or internal.
12. Where the leading commander of all branches of the military is the duly elected executive, the president of our entire democracy.
13. Where the judiciary follow the laws and legal procedures of universal practice set forth in the United Nation, and in The Hague.
14. Were the exercise of jurisprudence is not dictated by any religious beliefs whatsoever.
15. Where there are local civil and criminal courts, a supreme court for each region, and a national centralized Highest Court, all of which see to it there is only one criminal law of the whole nation.
16. Where no cruelty in punishment is allowed, including all forms of torture, beatings, rape, and humiliation.
17. Where no one is required to give testimony against his/her own self.
18. Where police is professionally trained according to international standards, held accountable for their actions, and directed by the regional governments, and are not allowed to meddle in politics.
19. Where there is no search and seizure allowed without reasonable cause, which shall be set forth in the central constitution, and is adhered to by all national and regional governmental bodies.
20. Where there is no such thing as basij who are allowed to act as their own force, or in adjunct to military or police.
21. Where only prisons exist according to the main constitution of Iran, and all secret/unlisted locations not authorized by law are hereby abolished, and must be publicly and with much ceremony destroyed.
22. Where every citizen is free to hold, express and campaign for any political belief held, without intimidation or harassment from anyone.
23. Where any citizen may freely join the public debate, and, if of legal age, run for regional and national office.
24. Where every citizen of legal age is guaranteed the right to vote freely.
25. Where every citizen is guaranteed immediate legal counsel if accused of a crime, and a speedy trial, with, if he/she chooses, a jury of peers.
26. Where all trials are held in public, but in due process and decorum.
27. Where there is uncensored freedom of press, electronic medium and communication, as well as freedom of expression.
28. Where their is total freedom of academic investigation, debate, art, poetry, music and intellectual pursuit.
29. Where the telling of untruths is regarded to be a national disgrace.
30. Where there is a permanent Commission of National Reconciliation established to guide the initial healing of our nation from the abuses of power by the current illegitimate regime, and then to arbitrate future disputes between parties and areas and regions, so that cosmopolitan civility may prevail everywhere.

This is what we mean by 'freedom.'

***more to come***

Phase I - Part D [The Song of Persia]

It was towards the end of Phase I - Part C that I said, historically, Celts are distant cousins to Iranians, and it is so, as we share part of an Aryan past. Furthermore, I would put it to you that we share a profound and deep-rooted psyche, which is far more than what might be called the "historical accident" just mentioned. What I'm talking about are qualities of character, traits that are so strong as to be possible to be viewed as part of our blood and bones. Before continuing with strategic planning, please allow me to explain what I see as the importance of this in your current struggle and resistance.

I have noted the rhetoric of this regime claiming that the reasons you are clamoring for democracy are because the West, including its culture and values, has influenced you. However, I think you would be seeking freedom, even if the West didn't exist at all! I think the reasons rest within your being Persians, of a Persian history, of a Persian culture, of a Persian language ...all of which implies being of a Persian character, one that has existed all along between the lines of Farsi. For all the efforts of the mullahs to distance you (lest you be led astray) from your heritage as Persians, even attempting to destroy memory of it, nonetheless your language, poetry and great epic literature have kept your memory for you, awaiting you to awaken and remember who you are. And if I'm even anywhere close to being accurate here, then a new possible slogan for your resistance movement could very well be "Because We Are Not Arabs!"

In fact, the process of moving towards individual and collective freedoms had its origins with you, beginning with your Cyrus the Great. If anything, it is the West that is indebted to you in innumerable ways, from human rights, to architecture, polity, astronomy and more. You have awakened, and are demanding to have ownership of yourselves back again. Long lives Persia! Long lives the beauty and honor of the Persian People!

What defines a culture and its people are the foundational values held by them. These values become codified in its art, poetry, literature, song and architecture ...but most of all in its language. When I began making comparisons between Persian and Irish-Celtic cultures this is what I found: both are from Indo-European roots; Farsi and Irish are both poetic languages; each culture values learning most of all; each puts its most profound values and insights into poetry; each loves beauty and art; each insists upon honor; each loves to sing and dance; each is loyal to its own; each is highly irascible; each is prone to deep emotional attachments to people and regional geography; and in antiquity both were based upon a warrior culture in which women as well as men were warriors, politicians and generals of armies. Please, be now what you are, my friends, Persian!

Furthermore, in Part C as well, for this resistance I encouraged you to think of yourselves as warriors. Although, not everyone who resists, fights, has fought, or will fight should be identified as a warrior. Throughout history that word has been applied only to a select, unique group and type of individuals. No matter what culture it is, warriors have always been those who are bound together by a commonly held "warrior code." It is that code which sets them apart from the forcefully conscripted soldiers and other combatants. And it is that code which makes them so formidable, as well as defining them as worthy of respect from others, and respect for themselves. It is the code that makes their struggle worthy in the eyes of society, and enables them to reintegrate back into society when the conflict has ended. An examination of various warrior cultures reveals a remarkable similarity of the values set forth in many of their codes. In one way or another, bravery is honored, fairness is expected, kindness is encouraged, loyalty is expected, mercy is one of the highest goods, and above all trustworthiness and telling the truth is an absolute. For the warrior, there is no honor except in keeping the code.

Dr. French asks the beginning classes at the Naval Academy to select which of the following words is the perfect synonym for "warrior."(1) Students consider the five words, including murderer, killer, fighter, victor, and conqueror. The surprising consistent results are --none of these terms are suitable synonyms describing the true warrior. A warrior is governed by the highest ethics and values of his society, often married to the society's metaphysics in its underpinnings. A person could be any of what these five words imply and have no ethical principles at all. In some cultures, the warrior's code may not be written out in a formulaic fashion, but may be contained nonetheless in epic stories of heroes and heroines, divinities, music and/or poetry.

On examining the fact that both Celtic and Persian were warrior cultures, I discovered that there was an identical bottom line for warriors in both. In an Irish epic, we find these words, "We, the Fianna (warrior bands) never told a lie, falsehoods were never imputed to us." Then I found the ancients reported that a Persian youth is taught three things, to ride, to shoot a bow, and not to lie. It seemed to me to be regarded as an ultimate kind of evil. If I remember correctly, Cyrus even went to war with two or three lesser rulers in the Persian Empire "because they lied." Of course, among the more famous of Persian warriors were the Immortals. As I'm given to understand, so called because their number was always maintained at ten thousand. The Irish Fianna Warrior Code may be found and reconstructed from various epic narratives and tales of warriors, and I'll share a sampling of two with you:

(The qualities of a true warrior,) "though youthful, are demonstrated in one who is

• Responsive to instruction and leadership,
• Unpretentious and of restrained spirit,
• Compliant in following directives and guidance,
• Sincere and aware in matters of conscience,
• Solemn and heartfelt in the path of spirit,
• True in word to self and others.

Such will be loved in their youth, and honored in old age. Though youthful they will be mature. Though lowly, they will be of noble appearance." -based upon Cormac mac Airt

(These are the behaviors desirable in young warriors,) "and are observed in one who

• Is attentive to the cycles of nature,
• Is observer of the heavens,
• Is investigator of mysteries,
• Is silent in the wilderness,
• Is friendly in social occasions,
• Is kind in friendship,
• Is attendant of the sick,
• Is gentle to the feeble,
• Is strong against wrongful power,
• Is ready to give to the needy.
• Though strong, is not unkind,
• Though adaptable, is not subservient,
• Though intelligent, is not a know-it-all,
• Though quick, is not reckless,
• Though assertive, is not arrogant,
• Though observant, does not talk about anyone in his absence,
• Though young, does not ridicule the elderly,
• Nor the poor,
• Nor the ragged,
• Nor the lame,
• Nor the blind,
• Nor the weak,
• Nor the demented,
• Nor the foolish,
• Is not sulky, hot-tempered, lazy, stingy, idle or jealous. For those who are sulky, hot-tempered, lazy, stingy, idle and jealous are repulsive to the people and all true warrior bands.

It is through these practices that youths may toughen into true and noble warriors, and so prove an honor to themselves and the people."

I do not read or speak Farsi, so I've been unable to attempt reconstructing what might rightly be called the Persian Warrior Code. However, those of you who do, could do so for the benefit of the resistance movement. Presumably, a beginning could be made by examining your own epic literature, stories of warriors, and proverbial wisdom sayings. The example set by Cyrus after capturing Baghdad could be used to imply the code included kindness and forgiveness to conquered previous foes, etc. If we only begin with bravery, loyalty, kindness, mercy, and telling the truth, then I think you can see why NONE of the security forces have shown themselves to be warriors, but have acted as psychopathic, murderous killers with no honor at all. I DO think there are some in the various branches of the military who "sense" the wrongness of the beatings, torture, rape and wholesale killing of peaceful protesters. Some may even despise the grand lies being told. Anything that can be done to encourage them becoming warriors needs to be done; there are some who will respond to the lofty call. But when all is said and done, "we" must not be like them ...we must respond as true warriors.

May I suggest not adopting the ancient designation of Immortals, but instead to consider the title of "The Eternals." My reasons are that while it was certainly a valid military decision to keep the troop level at ten thousand, "immortal" carries the implication of "becoming" everlasting, whereas the term "eternal" carries the concepts of always having been without interruption. As you are standing for freedoms that have always been the right of every human being from time immemorial on into forever, even if you die, you are standing as Warriors of The Eternal Universal Truths. You are The Eternals, the new bands of Persian warrior-poets. Stand strong, together, and stand tall.


(1) See The Warriors Code, by professor French, here. The entire white paper is worth reading.
See also Why Do Warriors Need A Code? by Dr. French, here. All three parts are highly recommended for new warriors and old warriors.

***More to Come***

Phase I - Part C [Why I'm Writing]

I've already suggested, "If you are a Resistance Patriot of any kind, then a state of war exists between you and the current oppressive regime!" I'm reiterating that statement again here, so that you may begin to think of yourselves as standing on a very real battlefield, to fight a war that you did not start, but was declared upon you! Nonetheless, you must fight with all your strength and skills, steeling your will in the face of very real casualties ...for there will be many. In addition, battles can be quite fluid, often unpredictable, and may require learning new skills quickly and improvising others on the spot. Often, Irish call upon their ancestors to go into battle with them. It is amazing the courage, finesse and balance that come just at the speaking of their names. Try this one if you wish: "O Cyrus of the Persians, rouse yourself to stand with us in battle," or perhaps, "Cyrus the Mighty, Just and Wise, leads us forward." You are warriors now, of an ancient, honorable and venerable path of blazing fire. So stand with the poise, the demeanor, and courage of YOUR ancient Persian warrior-poets. A further suggestion before pressing on --warriors never go into battle angry with anyone, or with anything ...with deadly skills, with 'feeling,' with conviction, yes, but never anger. That's because anger is a war against yourself.

We have much yet to cover, but someone has asked me why I'm writing this Resistance Manifesto, and as an Irish, how is it, I even care about Iranians? So this is probably belated, but here's my answer. My best friend for years (who is gone now) was from Tehran, and for his memory I have strong loyalty. Another, more recent friend, Ali, is one of the missing from the protests. Then, watching the first protest in Tehran after the fabricated election, I spotted someone in the crowd that I recognized. Deep inside I felt he would not survive long, as I have some personal experience with the brutality that can be part of politics in the Middle East. While the Western media seemed to lack driving interest in the happenings there, I, like so many across the planet, found myself riveted to Twitter, You Tube, Tehran Bureau and Facebook ...desperate for any crumb of information, and, unable to not weep at what was happening there.

If I told you that at some point I can't explain Iranians became a family to me, that would be close to the desperation and shell shock and anguish that poured through me. I'm reasonably certain most of us will have images in our minds that will last a lifetime. The one that pushed me over the edge into "Iranian Activism" was the one above.

What I saw in the face of this young protester was the face of my son, and my heart burst. After studying three different martial arts, the disaster about to happen was clear at least to me. Look at the young man's hands ...he is NO danger to the officer, yelling protest, yes, but no danger; this is not a rioter. Now look at the position of the policeman's nightstick. The blow about to be inflicted is with the intent to kill, not subdue a disgruntled citizen upset about a fake election. It became my son that I HAD to rise to defend, and still is! When Neda was shot in cold blood, it was one of my sisters who had just died. But, you see, that is really the case now isn't it? And there's more: As I told a fine young Iranian woman here where I live, I am Irish-Celt, so that means we are distant cousins to Iranians. I had to stand up for my tribe. I felt compelled to do something that may save one Persian life!

Certainly, I'm not expecting everyone to agree with all that I say, or even like any of it at all. Although, if what I write in the blog saves one life, it will be worth it. Things are transpiring so quickly there in Iran, my main concern is a life will be lost because I was not timely enough on a particular piece of information. I'll try to type faster.

***More to come***