This thread about the Iranian people (and how they are so thoroughly misunderstood by almost every American) is an example of the reason why I felt compelled to travel to Iran recently (May 28th-June 14th 2004).
I have captured a story (on video) of their friendship (overtly and passionatly friendly) towards Americans that cannot simply be dismissed in the way that has been represented by some ill-informed posts.
I hope to produce this into a documentary that will find it's way onto the national media channels.
You can find out why I felt I had to go by viewing the following video of a presentation about "Astronomy in Iran" that was given to the members of the Orange County Astronomers in May. It is the story of friendship that got my interest (rather than the Astronomy part).
View Look Up Tonight Episode 16