I Come Bearing Gifts

Soghati

By JASON REZAIAN in Tehran

One of the reasons I don't like to broadcast my departures to Iran is that many expect me to act as a courier. Most Iranians living here in the US still have relatives back there, and one of the many obstacles between the two nations is very limited shipping services.

It would irk me more, but I do it all the time myself. These days, though, I've tried to institute a strict policy: I take letters, cash and medicine. This is especially important now, since most airlines have reduced the luggage allowance by about 40%.

In the past I've taken everything from a case of Kit Kats, Skippy peanut butter, Victoria Secret panties, Norelco shavers, a US flag, laptops, textbooks, a Playboy magazine, lots of ibuprofen, Tupac cds, and "Titanic" posters. Through this blatant support of cross-cultural consumerism, I've learned that I'd much rather contribute to Iranian understanding of American culture and thought than to their consumption of our junk.

They'll have none of it: "Just bring stuff, with the tags still on it," is the impression I get. My new policy, like all other rules directed at Iranians, has become a guideline to be followed by someone else, i.e suckers.

The trinkets are starting to pile up. This time around there are two pounds of Peet's coffee, a couple of heavy hardbound photo books, some obscure variation of Aspen cologne and a variety of garments from American Apparel. I've already had to reject two Apple Mac Books.

I think it's time to let go of the idea that Iran only exports Islamic extremism or terror. They export beautiful handmade rugs and delicious pistachios. And the United States doesn't only export democracy or represent global arrogance. It provides access to the stuff people think they want. Equal parts pusher man and dream fulfiller.

This entry first appeared on Jason's blog on the SF Chronile Web site.
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