'Just World News' with Helena Cobban

Ramazani: "Bridging the Divides"

** Updates posted below **

As regular justworldnews readers will recognize, Helena and I have presented and commented on numerous essays here by R.K. - "Ruhi" - Ramazani. Here's one on Jefferson & Iraq, another on "Making Gulf Security Durable," and this one on why massive arms sales are not the answer. Tomorrow, he faces a complex heart surgery.

On the eve of this potential life crossroad, the University of Virginia, via UVA Today on-line, published a multimedia tribute to Professor Ramazani's generous service to students, the University, and to the cause of "understanding" between Americans and peoples of the Middle East.

I especially like Professor William Quandt's comment at the essay end:

“One of Ruhi's great hopes has been that he could personally help bridge the divide between the country of his birth, Iran, and the country where has lived for most of his adult life, the United States,” said William B. Quandt, the Edward R. Stettinius, Jr., Professor of Government and Foreign Affairs and an expert on the Middle East. “It remains to be seen whether Ruhi’s hope for reconciliation between the two countries he knows best will take place, but if and when it does, he will have played an important role behind the scenes.”

Several years ago, I published a biographical sketch of how Ramazani's scholarship has compelling echoes in his own life journey. I hope to have it available on line shortly. I'm also in the early stages of a project to "digitize" the best of his half century of writings for ready access to all via the web.

The UVA Today item includes marvelous clips from a recent interview with "the" Professor himself. (look for the link near the top right) In addition to the quotes on what the University has meant to him, about America's fixation with "fixing" things, and his ending optimism about the "oneness of humankind," do enjoy the breathtaking scenery behind him. Warms the heart.

Let's send our good thoughts, wishes, and prayers for his surgery and speedy recovery. We can endeavor to emulate the bridgebuilder; but not replace him.

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Update as of Sept. 26h, 5:00 p.m. est: Via Ruhi's family, we are greatly encouragedby the good reports from the outstanding University of Virginia heart surgeons. Ruhi has pulled through the surgery, with even a few positive surprises. Thank you Dr. Kron!

Ruhi, enjoy your "vacation...." :-} We - and the world - still need you.