What a waste of time
What a waste of talent
To confine a person with so many gifts
And why?
Because he cares about the education of the next generation
Because he cares about good morals and serving one’s community
Because he wants to spread joy and love
And for these reasons he must be confined
What an utter waste of talent and time
February 10th, 2023
For Afif Naimi who was sentenced to seven years in prison in Iran for being a Baha’i 
The suspense is over
You got the prize
It’s seven years
Seven years of sacrifice
And as they hand you the trophy
You smile and give thanks
That you have won yet again
This is the second time
Some will say
This is not a prize
How can it be?
They can’t see the medal
The standing ovation
Or the podium you stand on
But in your heart you know
This is better than any recognition you could have got
Your face is serene
Your heart is full of love
You gladly accept this honor
And what is to come
February 8th, 2023
Dear Afif Naimi, a former member of the leadership of the Baha’i community in Iran, has been sentenced to seven years in prison after having already spent ten years there in the past.
His last time on WhatsApp was
2022-07-30, 4:15 pm Montreal time
21 days have gone by and his fate is not clear yet
His family knows little of what’s going on
His friends worry for him daily
How will the authorities collect
Evidence of espionage when there is none?
Another arrest!
Was ten years in prison not enough?
And for crimes he did not commit?
For loving humanity?
For serving his community?
I talked to him the day before he was arrested
He was well
He was thankful
He was jovial as usual
We pray for him
For fortitude and strength
Qualities he has in abundance already
I know he welcomes this sacrifice
As he did the previous ones
I know he is grateful to stand up
For what he believes in
I know he is victorious
Whether in captivity or freedom
August 20th, 2022
For my dear friend, Afif Naimi
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