Youcef Nadarkhani needs our prayers

Iran is, as of this writing, planning on executing Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani for having converted to Christianity.  Once again, the Religion of Peace has produced what appears to be a growing number of extreme cases in which pre-modern death and murder is the way to deal with disagreements. 

Unlike Troy Davis, however, the list of civil rights leaders, Christian clergy, and A-list celebrities is rather short in terms of those calling for his release.  I've not found an example of Pope Benedict jumping on the bandwagon either, though he was reported to have thrown his support behind Troy Davis.  Some have pointed out that our illustrious media continues to focus more on Chaz Bono and the romantic plights of Ashton Kutcher than on this man, or focus more on Troy Davis for that matter.  Perhaps it's due to a general lack of interest on everyone's part.

Why?  I can only guess.  Trashing America is very much ingrained in the 21st century mindset.  About 3 or 4 generations have now grown up on the mantra of 'America is the alpha and omega of all Suck.'  Other cultures and civilizations are, of course, more than happy to agree.  Or it could be that in America, we know that crying, bitching, and yelling can still have an impact - at least once in a while. 

Another reason could be that we're just scared to death to offend Islam.  Whether all Muslims are violent or murderers is not the point.  Those who are have possibly impacted the debate more than we care to admit.  They have, after all, been in complete control of the last 10 years of American history.  And let's face it, when it comes to not offending Muslims, there's no censorship we won't embrace to keep them happy.  And we'll do it even if Muslims themselves have not requested it. 

It could be a combination.  That same combo that caused media pundits to remind us that Pastor Terry Jones just goes to prove that all Americans for all time are a bunch of racists in a racist nation, while tens of millions of Muslims who openly support terrorism and the slaughter of non-Muslim infidels just goes to show you how rotten America is for making them hate us so much.  I have a feeling the future generations are going to have to endure a long, cold winter compliments of us.  Because I can't help but think it's not by accident no matter how far from the mark my guesses are:

"A new Power is rising. Against it the old allies and policies will not avail us at all. There is no hope left in Elves or dying Numenor. This then is one choice before you, before us. We may join with that Power. It would be wise, Gandalf. There is hope that way. Its victory is at hand; and there will be rich reward for those that aided it."

For my part, if this is true, I will do all I can for Youcef Nadarkhani and that is pray.