The first segment of the Rachel Maddow show last night was one of the most inspiring things I have seen. It gave strong evidence that the opposition movement in Iran is on the verge of victory. It was so good that I want to re-phrase it in my own words.
It started with the eight Iranian soccer players that wore green accessories to show their support for the movement. There were words about their courage, and the risks they were taking.
There was coverage of the marches, including one of the most amazing protests I have ever seen on film. There were no chants. They marched in silence. They were totally coordinated and controlled. When the state police riot squad showed up, they passed the word quietly. They did not throw rocks. They did not hurl insults.
They all sat down.
The guest explained the inner workings of Ayatollah politics, and that was the thing that convinced me that this battle is won. He said that the days of mourning that are beginning today mark a tidal wave that will not be quelled. The protestors that have been killed so far will be honored as martyrs. There will be more deaths today, and another day of mourning tomorrow. And so on. And so on, until the government is overthrown.
Perhaps the most amazing part was the fact that Ayatollah Khamenei is pretty low on the spiritual totem pole when it comes to power from God. One of the Ayatollahs above him has made it a mortal sin to fix elections. Another is supporting the opposition. The guys that are closest to God seem to be ready for a change.
Anyway, that’s my version of Rachel’s amazing show. Click the link and watch it if you missed it last night. It’s a great day to be a freedom fighter.
Full. Body. Transplant. 
Thanks for your comment on my blog.
Your take here is appreciated. I hope the world sees this and is inspired.
Hate to disagree (thanks for the post at my site) – but you may want to read some of the background on how the Islamic Government of Iran has brutally repressed previous movements.
http://www.ict.org.il/Articles/tabid/66/Articlsid/680/currentpage/1/Default.aspx
Thanks for the comment on my post. I don’t think it’s won just yet. As btx3 points out, the Iranian government has a very heavy hand and iron boots. But the fact that the protests are happening and people are finding a way to let the rest fo the world know about them is a very, very positive sign.
It is not won. The Iranian people will do this or not. Private individuals can and should offer encouragement. Governments should take Obama’s lead and let everyone know they are watching and are concerned about human rights – but STAY OUT OF IT. Governments should also decline to acknowledge the election results until this totally plays out.
There will be suffering. There will be death. But there will also be courage and individual kindness. And hopefully triumph.
I pray for Iranians.
We pray with you.
Thanks, everyone, for the comments.