I know an Iranian who does this, from time to time. But what (s)he has to say (and others too) upon return angers me -- people should not have to live this way.
I think you and many others have helped to educate and re-shape people's opinions. Hopefully those people spread the word to others.
My wife and I do what we can. Once in a while we meet Americans who know Iranians personally... and in those cases there is nothing more to say. But so few Americans know (that they know) Iranians, we can't achieve much, one on one. We do our part, but in our case we number no more than two.
I do think these authors are a little tough on President Bush. I have never heard his opinions regarding Iran or the Iranian people ever waiver. I do think he has expressed solidarity with the people. As for those around him? That's a different story.
President Bush has made some good remarks about this. But (I will be critical) I see little action, response or effort in this area. And this includes Colin Powell and his State Department.
I feel confident the people will attain their freedom. I'm afraid that before that happens, things are going to get worse in Iran. It seems inevitable that Iran will be an unstable country for a while. But I do think, in the course of the next 2 years, the Iranian people will be delivered from their oppression and will experience living in a free country.
My hope and prayer is that it happens sooner, faster, and more painlessley that that. But (sorry) I am not betting on that.