"While Divine providence has placed Iran and the United States geographically far apart, we should be cognizant that human values and our common human spirit, which proclaim the dignity and exalted worth of all human beings, have brought our two great nations of Iran and the United States closer together.
"Both our nations are God-fearing, truth-loving and justice-seeking, and both seek dignity, respect and perfection.
"Both greatly value and readily embrace the promotion of human ideals such as compassion, empathy, respect for the rights of human beings, securing justice and equity, and defending the innocent and the weak against oppressors and bullies.
"We are all inclined towards the good, and towards extending a helping hand to one another, particularly to those in need.
"We all deplore injustice, the trampling of peoples' rights and the intimidation and humiliation of human beings.
"We all detest darkness, deceit, lies and distortion, and seek and admire salvation, enlightenment, sincerity and honesty.
"The pure human essence of the two great nations of Iran and the United States testify to the veracity of these statements.
"Noble Americans,
"Our nation has always extended its hand of friendship to all other nations of the world.
Hundreds of thousands of my Iranian compatriots are living amongst you in friendship and peace, and are contributing positively to your society. Our people have been in contact with you over the past many years and have maintained these contacts despite the unnecessary restrictions of US authorities.
"As mentioned, we have common concerns, face similar challenges, and are pained by the sufferings and afflictions in the world."
Sociologists speak of universal values. Americans must realize that all people of the world value what we value--life, love, family, faith--and act accordingly. Only then can we have true understanding and peace.
I'll close with my favorite paragraph from Mr. Ahmedinejad's latest letter:
"Palestinian mothers, just like Iranian and American mothers, love their children, and are painfully bereaved by the imprisonment, wounding and murder of their children. What mother wouldn't?"
Apple pie and Chevrolet may be American, but mothers love their children no matter what their nationality or ethnicity. Motherhood is an incredible experience shared by billions of women throughout time and place. Unrestricted by language, religion or politics.
Who is the tyrant? The one who promotes values, or the one who commands destruction?
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