Anousheh’s Space Blog

October 2, 2006

385 Comments

1. Thank you for your blogs. I read about you in the newsapaper. Take heart. Be strong. Don’t give up. Blessings to you. Don’t worry about the negative feedback. Thank you for sharing. Writers need to share and then let go. Be well. Blessings to you.

   Comment by karl marxhausen — October 2, 2006 @ 9:25 pm

2. I would just ignore the negative comments. There are plenty of people who are very excited about your adventure. It’s just a downside of being in public particularly on the internet where everyone can voice their opinion. Just be happy with all the people you have inspired.

   Comment by James, Mountain View, CA — October 2, 2006 @ 9:27 pm

3. Dear Anousheh - Your journey and excitement have generated more fascination and joy in human space exploration that any of us have seen for a long, long time. I have taught and mentored students of a variety of levels, and it is always sobering when, after doing my best, I have to read the critiques at the end of the course. While most are positive, there are always a few which cast gloom and make me feel like I did an awful job, and it is that small minority that can change how I feel. I always remind myself to step back and get a better perspective. Most people who like what you do never say anything! Given the large number of positive comments, please realize that the good you have done far outweighs any bad opinoins. Some poeple will never be happy, regardless! For myself, you have brought me close to space than anyone ever before and I thank you!
   Gioia

   Comment by Gioia Massa — October 2, 2006 @ 9:27 pm

4. با سلام خدمت انوشه خانم عزیز
   فقط بگم افتخار ما ایرانیها هستی
   امیدوارم هر جا هستی و هر کاری میکنی موفق باشی و خدا یارت باشه
   ایران خواستی بیای ما رو هم خبر کن
   یا علی
   خداحافظ- علی -مهندس کارشناس ساخت متروی تهران

   Comment by علی — October 2, 2006 @ 9:29 pm

5. Anoushe,
   Really glad to hear that you would continue your blog. As long as you write, I will be one of the readers! It will give me positive energy.
   Thank you.

   Comment by Shahram — October 2, 2006 @ 9:30 pm

6. There will always be people who don’t agree with you. If you think their criticism is unfounded, then simply ignore them.

   The fact is that a LOT of people have enjoyed what you have done. No-one can take that memory from you. Don’t let them get you down.

   Comment by Andrew G — October 2, 2006 @ 9:32 pm

7. 

   That’s a shame people have said things to upset you. You are doing something the majority will never be able to do. Maybe there is jealousy when there should be joy and support? It’s been truly wonderful and kind for you to share your adventures with everyone. What a privilege to be able to see it through your eyes. I hope someday soon you share what has happened on the last part of your journey so that we may finish taking it with you! Sincerely, Hat Girl

   Comment by hatgirl — October 2, 2006 @ 9:38 pm

8. Anousheh -

   I don’t know what to say about the negatives - they certainly don’t speak for me. I’m one of the silent majority who has been reading your blog at work every morning, trying to keep the tears from being obvious. I don’t know why your words affect me so much, but they do. You let me feel your emotion, and that’s a rare gift.

   Don’t waste your energy on those who can’t find joy in someone else’s fulfillment of a dream. The fact that you can’t reach them isn’t your fault - it’s theirs. The rest of us - the silent majority who don’t usually comment - are grateful that you’ve chosen to share your gift with us.

   Thank you.

   Comment by just someone on the web — October 2, 2006 @ 9:41 pm

9. I haven’t been reading the comments, only your blog posts, but I cannot imagine what it is that people find to be negative about. From what I have read, you’ve been nothing but enthusiastic about sharing. I find your journey utterly fascinating - I mean, a cosmic blog, how freaky is that?? With Flickr pics and everything!! Keep up the good work - you’ve illuminated so much about space travel for so many of us… the little details of this incredible journey that one doesn’t normally get from news reports. I for one hope you continue - and truly appreciate what I have read so far.

   Comment by Alda — October 2, 2006 @ 9:51 pm

10. No matter what you do, how you feel, or what you achieve in life, there are always narrow minded people who will find a way to add some bitterness to it. Although difficult, my advice to you would be “IGNORE THEM!”
    You should be proud of yourself, because you make so many of us proud.

    Comment by shadi — October 2, 2006 @ 9:51 pm

11. Anoushe joon,
    U could’ve not said it any better. I myself as an immigrant in US, do understand what kind of obstacles u have faced all these years but unfortunately some people are so selfish & are not able to understand. It is always about ME, ME, ME!!!!! U have done a great job. DO NOT be disappointed at some of these negative comments. If u go through your comments (thousands & thousands of greeting & love), I am sure there is only a hand full of them so don’t even let it get in to you.Just keep of the good work. There is so much one can do in their lifetime so maybe it is time for these people to stand up and better their lives in order to help others. This could be their mission.
    You are a great lady. I wish u all the happiness & health.
    PEACE on earth.
    Shideh

    Comment by shideh — October 2, 2006 @ 9:52 pm

12. Anousheh,
    There are many negitave people in this world and I am afraid that most of them have access to the internet. Please don’t be discouraged by a few people that have nothing better to do than write bad things in your blog. I am sure that most people that have followed your adventure in your blog and on tv are very happy for you and are glad that you have chosen to share that adventure with us. Keep your head up and and be proud of what you have acomplished.
    Dan Johns

    Comment by dan johns — October 2, 2006 @ 9:56 pm

13. What sort of emotionally stunted tribble writes pablum such as this?

    “I’m one of the silent majority who has been reading your blog at work every morning, trying to keep the tears from being obvious. I don’t know why your words affect me so much, but they do.”

    I’m sorry, but getting moved to tears over someone else’s vacation is just pathetically sad.

    I am envious of Anoushe’s trip, and if I had $20m to burn I’d go too. But it’s just a freaking tourist trip (already done, btw, 3 times prior by other people). Get OVER it.

    Comment by Shubber Ali — October 2, 2006 @ 9:57 pm

14. You have and are changing the world for the better. You are inspiring people to dream, to achieve and to grow.

    thank you for improving our lives.

    shaun

    Comment by Shaun Branden — October 2, 2006 @ 9:58 pm

15. Hello and greetings Anousheh:

    I’m really happy for your space travel and thanks to represent the value and the dignity of all the women of the world. I’m very happy because your experience was successful and satisfied yor expectations. And don’t worry for the people that are not agree with you. You are a goddess of the earth and now of the space and nobody will clear brightness to your feat.

    A great hug from Bogotá, Colombia and I hope that you continue to write in this great blog.

    Xavier.

    Comment by Xavier López — October 2, 2006 @ 10:03 pm

16. I have enjoyed reading about your perspective of space. It’s nice to read about the little things and observations that aren’t always talked about. I hope, and hope that I myself will one day get the opportunity to travel to space.. It’s always been a life long dream of mine.. I wanted to enter the space program, but found that road to be quite long, with no guarantee at the end. I don’t know if this will reach you or not, and I have no other way of contacting you. But I would like to talk to you about a Space Education program. To get people excited about space. I work in game development, and am trying to create a Non-profit Space History simulator. A program that would teach about all the different space programs around the world, past, current & future. Allowing people to experience simulated space from there own computers, and to inspire them… I share that passion myself, and I think it would be a great thing to make happen… I’m not trying to solicit anything, I’m just trying to share my passion..

    Thank you for reading,

    Marc

    Comment by Marc Mackin — October 2, 2006 @ 10:03 pm

17. Dear Anousheh,

    I think you might try to weight the negative and positive responses. I didn’t try yet to read all the comments, so I don’t know the proportions, but I bet that positives are dominant.

    My point is - your blog does a lot of good. It awakes feelings and cravings, that we rarely experience. I can tell for myself: I am a type of person that doesn’t need to go to space to take a “stellar” point of view on things (or a very global one, if you like). Yet, until recently, I had problems believing some of my judgements. I knew that logically they were correct, but I just didn’t “feel it”, I wasn’t fully instinctively convinced.
    And with your space trip - I was travelling myself too. Your descriptions, your confessions, made me feel as if I were almost physically there. And this greatly improved my confidence in that stellar point of view. It convinced me that it is worthy to look at the world from outside (in a metaphoric sense, I know you understand). I thank you for that.

    If there is at least a handful of people that have benefited from your blog as much, I can assure you it is worth writing, no matter how much criticism you get.

    Axure

    Comment by Axure — October 2, 2006 @ 10:03 pm

18. Welcome back dear Anousheh

    Happy that you will stay for us for a while at least.
    This blog has become like a collective prayer for… the least I could say would be … trying to do our best.

    Maybe now it is more to readers to show directions and make proposols. We are all in this together.

    I have been learning a lot from other readers and have already added many links to my favorites.

    I, like so many others, stand for peace among nations, and respect of our Planet.

    Thanx to you we can start together from the basics:)

    Love
    Homeyra

    Comment by Homeyra — October 2, 2006 @ 10:04 pm

19. I got amazingly inspired by you.

    Its is hard to be judged, there is so many reasons for judgement. Sometimes is not fair, sometimes thay are wrong, Sometimes they could be right and they should be listened, sometimes they are jealous, sometimes we are on the other side judging.

    What more important that they are moved, shocked, they react, we react. They/We are not sleep not living their dream. Please carry on with yours.

    I believe what you did is amazing… be welcomed to earth with its pro and cons.

    Comment by Ignacio Pinillos — October 2, 2006 @ 10:05 pm

20. 

    Hello, Anousheh,

    I was afraid of how you might take the negative which I also read. That’s why I felt compelled to write the things I wrote last night. Unfortunately, we live in a negative world and have to find strength through our faith to overcome it. You have inspired so many with you vision please, don’t let it stop now because of a few that don’t understand. We have to continue with the optimism generated within this blog.

    The writings most people have contributed are positive, beautiful and wonderful which are originated by your kind heart. We have to keep the wave going no matter what!

    I felt bad when I read the negative but, I brushed it aside because in my heart I know goodness. I know many have been blessed by this and thank you for it.

    It’s not about the fame it’s way bigger than that…it’s about friendship and love for our humanity/world!

    Keep On Bloggin Anousheh and we’ll keep on prayin!

    Pat Freeman
    West Chester, PA

    Comment by screamin75 — October 2, 2006 @ 10:05 pm

21. Dear Anousheh,
    There are jealous or otherwise deprived people who aim to hurt anyone who listens to them. Their views do not matter except to those who wish to exploit them for personal aims. Your destiny has been to play a substantial role in promoting manned space flight (and to a lesser extent inspiring young Iranians, especially females). Spaceship Earth is filling up rapidly by human beings and soon we will need to look to the stars to survive without having to destroy ourselves. Through your efforts and the work of many other similarly inspired and committed individuals, humanity may have a hopeful future to look forward to. Welcome back to Earth and best wishes for your continued success!

    Comment by Hassan S — October 2, 2006 @ 10:05 pm

22. There will always be people like that, unfortunately. Dont let them get you down. You have shown us that anything is possible, and I admire you for achieving this childhood dream of yours that most of us can just dream about.
    I am lucky that I got to read about your incredible journey.
    Thank you.

    Comment by Anna — October 2, 2006 @ 10:11 pm

23. Anousheh, you have inspired countless people with your example, your authenticity, your dreams. You went on the journey of a lifetime, and you took us all along for the ride. If some people can’t fully appreciate it, that’s not your fault. Just keep on as you are - you’re doing fine.

    Comment by Kevin McLeod — October 2, 2006 @ 10:12 pm

24. Anousheh

    I am sorry you have received so many negative comments - I guess I am not surprised, there are a lot of negative people in the world. Stay on top - stay positive - ‘nihil illigitum carbarundum’ as they used to say.

    I wrote to you before expressing my hope that your voice, while you have one, could do some good for the environmental catastrophe that we are heading into. I still hope that can happen - in particular, I hope that the dialog can move away from ‘avoidance’ to ‘repair’ - we need desperately to be talking about how to ‘engineer’ a solution - find the best minds - find a solution and spend the billions required to fix it - or your kids (if you have any) will not have a world where space exploration is a possibility.

    I do not have a TV so I don’t keep up to date with the news - but I hope you had a great trip and a safe return. I also wish you all the best with your future ventures (or adventures!)

    David Robinson (Sydney, Australia)

    Comment by Dave Robinson — October 2, 2006 @ 10:15 pm

25. Re, me again:)

    It seems that the main chatper in the criticisms is the one regarding the $20Million expenses of such an adventure. I propose to make this the subject of one blog, you can use “the price of a dream” then all the commentaries which are related.

    For my part, I do not think that $20Million (or more or less) is what is missing to save Humanity, Though I understand that for some at first sight this would seem like a big deal.

    I agree that You cannot convince all of your readers, but maybe your readers can convince each other.. so we could move to next chapters for better understanding of each others.

    Thx again:)
    Homeyra

    Comment by Homeyra — October 2, 2006 @ 10:17 pm

26. I can’t get why people would criticize you.. You’ve been a great inspiration and there’s nothing in this blog or on your web page that suggests you were after fame. You did a great thing in pursuing your dream, don’t mind the morons saying negative things about your journey. They’re just that - morons.

    Comment by Joel — October 2, 2006 @ 10:22 pm

27. Dear Anusheh ,

    What’s up with you

    forget all which make you sad ,

    I really become sad after reading your last blog,
    I really want you take it easy ,

    there are different people whith different beliefs around the world ,
    no one is complete ,
    so when we do our best in something,
    when we act in an excellent way
    when we are very good ,

    there are somebody who think negetives
    that we were not good , we were not …

    forget all of negetive thought ,

    me , my family , my friends , my classmates …oooooo ..lots of people love you so much , lots of people are perfectly in agreement with you … so what’s the importance of only few negetive thought ?….

    sorry , I’m not completely fluent in English , and I couldn’t use better words to say my opinion very well , and I’m very sleepy , cause it’s 1:45 midnight in Teh. ….

    we all proud of you , and love you so much ,real love

    in last 2 weeks really the best thing for me was reading about you in your blog and in net ,I have alot of your fotoes , which I gather in interenet , I found some interesting in nasa.org …

    Thaks so much for all ,

    Bests ,

    Comment by Zari — October 2, 2006 @ 10:26 pm

28. Anousheh the Brave,

    Reading your post I feel that my experiences might be able to help you, in some small way to repay what you have done for me by sharing your fantastic voyage.

    I was doing some soul searching recently, trying to figure out my place in this world. I realized it is my job to believe in things. To hope. That is the job I take most seriously, and that motivates me to do everything I do. I believe and hope so that others will see the belief shining out from me and not give up.

    As I’m sure you know, it is quite a hard job. And it can’t be faked. It is a thankless job, and a lonely one at times. As believers, we want to connect and share our hope with *everyone*, and we feel disappointed if we fail to inspire even one person. In this way, our very essence of hope can make us sad. As Spiderman says of his power, “It is my gift. It is my curse.”

    It’s like being a night-light, shining in the scary dark. If someone chooses not to look, chooses to stay in the dark, well, that won’t make us stop shining. We can’t stop. It’s what we do.

    Comment by Julie the Believer — October 2, 2006 @ 10:30 pm

29. Dear Dear very Dear Anousheh :)
    Unsensored, courageaous human beeing, who write with your beautiful heart, who share every moment with the readers from all over the world, how your heart as been touch, in joy and in sadness, in response to so little, so few , negative comments, jugements from others, are so overwelming at time, it take only one or two to bring sadness in such a beautiful heart, please so very please, take this as motion sickness to your emotion, as part of the challenge you had to live, in preparation and actual living of your dream, you have become an inspiration too so many of us, in such short time, getting that of your chest, is again so much like you, in such a blissfull spirit!
    I have feltl the same pain in my emotion reading them, as i am sure most of us have, but I know deep down, that we all share the same strengh in our believe that actions speaks louder then words…so shine shine ambasador of space and humanity.

    Jules

    Comment by Jules Poirier — October 2, 2006 @ 10:33 pm

30. Dear Anousheh,

    “Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity” Einstein

    Don’t take seriuosly the negative comments. It is the historic state of affairs in our planet.

    You know a secret… it is easy to be negative, because it is too easy… it is psicological gravity (literally!). Think of that people in terms that what they say is the better thing they can do.

    Because of people like you that the humanity is living better that the prehistoric man.

    Keep your faith an push. Thank you.

    Comment by Enrique — October 2, 2006 @ 10:40 pm

31. Hiii again Anousheh,

    Just have been reading your last posting to the blog and I can understand that you are overwhelmed by all the reactions. I can asure you that the majority is very positive and I do sincerely hope that the few negative ones will not make you too unhappy. By sticking out your head, one is bound to encounter all kinds of reactions, unfortunately also negative ones (remeber Braveheart?). But this must never be a reason for not being true and honest to yourself, press on what you believe in !! I remember one line in one of the reactions in your blog, saying that the obstacles that you encounter on your way should become stepping stones towards the goal you want to reach. A very positive thought indeed. I think that you showed us that you’re very talented and I’m sure that you already have made the change in many of us. Thank you for that Anousheh, your kind words made me realize how important it is in life to believe in yourself and in other people. Hope this little ´peptalk´ helps blowing away the negativity, so be proud of what you have done, cherish your wonderful experiences of the last weeks and enjoy being with all your loved ones. Thank you again for sharing so much with us. Take care,

    Wim Holwerda, Netherlands

    Comment by Wim — October 2, 2006 @ 10:43 pm

32. Dear Anousheh,
    Regardless your intention of going to space, whatever the reason was which I personally appreciate it, I really enjoyed the way you have expressed yourself and behaved. You approved that you are very smart, intelligent, clever and full of faith and energy.
    I enjoyed reading your blog as I could see how much heartily you describe your moments. That was precious for me and I appreciate it very much. The most important thing is your friendly and down to earth character. As we have learned to see wealthy people by paparazzi and from a long distance as we are not money wise rich. The other aspect of your journey which feeds the press is your wealth and your successful career as it could be unbelievable to spend a bulk of money for a space travel, as we have not learnt freedom even in a democratic society. you paid for your dream and the best part was that you share it with us. You have not been the first person to have this experience but you have been the first one who touched let’s say not millions but thousands heart, I think this feeling should make you calm down if critics are doing their best to ruin your peaceful mind.
    I myself admire you very much not because of being the first Iranian space tourist or being so much successful in your career and so on but I only admire you for being yourself, being yourself and being yourself and I am very pleased to have this chance to read your beautiful thoughts which eloquently are flowing from your heart.
    still we have not learnt to get to know each other unconditionally, I mean when I am writing about you I don’t care how much money you have as you don’t know me at all, we just communicate by our hearts and soul but we cannot make any good connection with someone who try to calculate the faith, humanity, dreams, love and similar qualities. I am sure you have a supportive character but it is not my business absolutely not so it is up to you to plan for charity works or whatever the critics are saying as I’m sensitive about you and chase the news about your journey. We should learn that we are free God gave us this freedom to live the way we like so nobody should interfere our dreams or wishes. I am poor maybe out of job and money but it is not anybody’s responsibility to sort out my problems, I should do it myself and I will do. Please don’t care about the critics at all just be happy that you touched many hearts and you never will be out of our mind. Be happy for your great endeavour and brilliant experience.

    Take care and cheer up…

    Nazila

    Comment by Nazila — October 2, 2006 @ 10:45 pm

33. Anousheh, I feel like you a lot when it comes to what others think of me. This quote helps me:

    “Criticism is something we can avoid easily by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing” - Aristotle

    From those who are trying to wound others with their words, we don’t want their approval anyway, do we? At the end of the day, we live for and audiance of ONE: God. He gave you a great opportunity. And thank you for taking the world along with you.

    Comment by Desiree — October 2, 2006 @ 10:50 pm

34. Dear Anousheh
    Please remember this.As hamid informed you on ISS,your blog and web site had over 10 million hits half way thorugh your journey.of all those who visited your blog only very few commented and there were overwhelmingly positive about you and your journey.i know that people hardly ever comment when they like or approve of something but very likely do when they oppose or dislike something.
    Now when you know these facts it is not FAIR to us(the absolute majority) that you spend even a second on those negative few.
    Beside they are not angry at you(there was nothing that you did that affect them whatsoever) they are angry at their own short comings but venting it out at you( hello easy target).
    you have made this world a much much better place by just being yourself,please stay cool and positive like always and as you were on ISS for the rest of your life!!!this is what people around the world saw and loved so much.
    You have inspired may be millions of people around the world and by doing so you became much bigger than your life.like it or not Anousheh aziz you do not belong to yourself anymore you belong to humanity and specially all iranians who felt so good to show the world(by your accomplishment) who they realy are and dispell all those stereotypes.
    your sincere fan siroos

    Comment by cyrus — October 2, 2006 @ 10:51 pm

35. Anousheh azizam,

    You are an inspiration to all women on our planet, and it’s a pity there are unhappy people trying to spread their “seeds of unhappiness” on your beautiful adventure, words and life.

    Please ignore those little gnats ~ and please keep blogging!

    Comment by Karen — October 2, 2006 @ 10:51 pm

36. Anausheh,
    I am amaized that anyone would send to you anything but positive comments. I have been a space watcher since the beginning. I think that what you did was super PLUS you wrote about it.
    Americia and the world needs hero’s. There really isn’t right now. We need to look up to someone and say ‘they did good’. Too many people are so wrapped up in their own lives they don’t take the time to see the good things that go on around them, such as your trip.
    You did good girl - now I urge you to continue to use your knowlege and lets get some more hero’s and bring this world together. You are a hero.

    Comment by Rick Flemming — October 2, 2006 @ 10:54 pm

37. Salaam Anusheh,

    Hope you are fine and back to normal life–
    Just a point about your writting:
    It’s great to hearing from you and sharing you idea as many point of view:
    - As a astronaut who travel to space
    - As an women who did that
    - As an Iranian specialy a women(most of your popularity back to this side, blv or not it’s matter of fact)
    - As a millionair(specially a lady millionair)
    - As a person, such as any body in the net that bloging
    - As a professional that her actvities is hi-tech
    - and many…
    But there is a point here: when you are writting specially as a bloger in the net, you are sharing your idea- so you must expect that many people may agree or not with your idea. I think you not suppose to consider a negative point if someone not agree with you activite or your idea.

    As an example: As you well know, many peopl doesn’t have food to eat(either in Iran or US), so when they hear someone payed 20m to go to space just as a trip– It is very clear those not agree with your idea or …, right? So don’t get mad if you rcv’d some negative point– it’s life, has both side–

    But, we(I think all Iranian) as an Iranian love you–

    Sorry, getting long,hope you got my point!
    Best,fazel,

    Comment by fazel — October 2, 2006 @ 10:55 pm

38. Dear Anousheh,
    first of all thank you for sharing your experience with us… This is something to be proud of. Just ignore all the negativity and continue following your dreams. I am one of the people who believe that dreams do come true… and I am very happy for you… being able to do something you have always dreamed of is just great and again thank you for sharing your dream with us!

    Here is something I want to share with you:

    “If you call out loud
    Will it get inside
    Through the heart of your surrender
    To your alibis
    And you can say the words
    Like you understand
    But, the power’s in believing
    So give yourself a chance

    ‘Cause you can
    Climb the highest mountain
    Swim the deepest sea, hee,
    All you need is the will to want it
    And uhh, little self-esteem

    So keep the faith
    Don’t let nobody turn you ’round
    You gotta know when
    It’s good to go
    To get your dreams
    Up off the ground…”

    Love

    Comment by Bita — October 2, 2006 @ 10:56 pm

39. Hi Anousheh

    I was surprised we had gone two days without a posting and wondered why, so I was really sad to read your blog tonight, about the impact which the minority of negative comments have had upon your feelings.

    You should feel incredibly happy and satisfied that you have realised your dream, and proud of the bravery which you demonstrated to achieve it. There is nothing to feel sad or disappointed about.Please do not allow a few negatives comments to dilute the great success and the positive things you have achieved.

    In any walk of life people who are successful will attract criticism, often through envy or maybe adequacy on the part of the critic. I’m sure that many of the tiny minority who have disapproved of what you have done fall into this category.

    As I type this, your blog has had over 1.1m hits - a few dozen critical postings represents such a small number, I’d urge you not to be troubled by them, to focus on the thousands of positive and supportive comments, and to please finish the story of the last part of your journey, and then to continue the blog as you go back to the ‘day job’ and continue your quest.

    You WILL be successful. You have clearly started something. You have rekindled an interest in manned spaceflight which has been missing for some time, you have created an interest in an audience which maybe had little awareness before. Some people will see that their dreams, no matter how impossible, could come true.

    The investment of your time, passion, courage and money will be diluted if you don’t keep this momentum going and continue what you have started.

    Please keep the faith, and have a safe trip home to Plano.

    With admiration and best regards

    Tony Quine
    Isle of Man UK

    Comment by Tony Quine — October 2, 2006 @ 10:57 pm

40. As the forces of gravity hold us to the earth,so the forces of negetivity in the human mind play out in this world.You left the earth with Joy,and travelled with joy, and joy was your vehicle and companion on the way to distant stars.Your joy was your vision which you had when young.Those who have the eyes to`see` will understand your whys.Keep your joy and the pearl of great price which is your secret.Leave them to be in their negetivity,one day the light you saw in space will illumine their minds on their way to distant stars.

    Comment by john — October 2, 2006 @ 10:58 pm

41. Thank you for going to space as a private citizen and telling us all what it’s like. You are an inspiration.

    Comment by JayeRandom — October 2, 2006 @ 11:03 pm

42. Anousheh
    Thank You so much for your blog. I hope that you will not let the mean people bring you down. I have been reading your story and just being able to share in some small part of what you have done is wonderful to me.
    again thank you so much
    Mike Mello Seattle Wa

    Comment by Mike Mello — October 2, 2006 @ 11:04 pm

43. Anousheh,
    Just remember that you cant make everyone happy, especially un-happy people.
    Dont ever worry about the negative people. They surely dont have
    a story to tell like yours.
    What you did took so much courage and bravery.
    I worry myself sick just going on a plane, i cant even imagine what would go through my head if i was going into outerspace!

    Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us.
    You sound like a sweet,kind hearted person.
    And anyone with a heart and some intelligence can tell your not
    about Fame.

    Comment by cheryl,akron,ohio — October 2, 2006 @ 11:05 pm

44. Anousheh,

    My four year old grand daughter, Macy sometimes gets sad when her infant brother gets more attention than she. At times like this her little lip comes out and her face says that she feels like nobody in the world loves her. Her dad wisely said when you get something for the baby, Rocco, once in a while, pick up something small for Macy, too. So, as a way to do this and teach her that the world is filled with more love than sadness, every now and then Macy unexpectantly gets a small box with a trinket or toy with a note just for her from “The World.” The note tells her that the world loves her and that sometimes its okay to be sad for a while, but in the end the world has plenty more love where this little gift comes from. Her face lights up and for a while, her life is better. Your love notes from the world ( each of us are the world) to the world make a lot of us feel better and for a little while, gives us hopeful dreams that despite the sadness and violence around us, there just may be more love and hope in the world than is apparent.

    Bill Kelly
    Cumming, GA USA

    Comment by Bill Kelly — October 2, 2006 @ 11:05 pm

45. Anousheh,
    I’m an Iranian, doing my Ph.D in mathematics in Canada. This is however not important, but I have a point here: I grew up in a middle class family, my father is a retired teacher,and my mom did not work. So, that you know what it means from financial point of view in Iran! I tried very hard to come to Canada and study here,a nd live free, despite my love to Iran and my people! So, for your readers to know that unlike, Anousheh, I am not a rich person! however, with all my heart, I support and am thankful for what Anousheh did for me! she made my dream come true. What she also did and is doing for science is well worth at least a simpel thank-you. Where many rich people in the world use their money to have a relaxed and fancy vacations, involved with using drogs, shopping expensive goods, and all different useless funs without havinga goal in life, Anousheh risked her life, yes she did! for a dream which belongs to many of us!
    Anoushe , as you said, you do not have to convince every body or make them happy about what you do with your life and money.If that is the case which some people bring up! such as why you don’t do charity instead or thinsg like that!
    As, Anousheh said once, do not expect one person to solve all the problems in the world. Anousheh used her talent and her money in adavcing science and technology. Otehrs may decide to use their talent and money in different ways, and some may use their money just to make the wrold worse than it is, supporting war,and violence activities!
    Anousheh, if you give up you have lost the game to this people.
    azar

    Comment by azar — October 2, 2006 @ 11:13 pm

46. Anousheh,

    I want to thank you.

    When I was 14, Carl Sagan showed me the beauty and majesty of science, especially astronomy, and gave me the gift of a dream. You lived my dream for me. You were generous enough to share it, so I was not excluded. You made it real, and visceral, and the details, and even, (no, ESPECIALLY), the mundane, made it live.

    You have given me someone I can show to my daughters and say : “The stars are not too high.” I wrote in my blog that I wish there were more of you, and less of the popstars, to influence our girls, into what and who they can be:)

    You have helped so many of us regain hope and perspective, in times fraught and perilous.

    There will always be doubters, history is littered with naysayers and those who cannot dream, they can only criticise. They are the ones who would enslave our minds and hearts, and if we listened to them, there would be no dreamers, no science, no magic. Please, do not let them tarnish the glitter of this all, the real shine of accomplishment, and the gift you have given us all.

    I have cried with you, as have the many around the world like us. When you journey, when you continue your amazing work, remember, you do so for yourself, but also for the rest of us, for our sons and daughters, (especially our daughters!). You work for humanity. There is no them, up there. There is only us.

    Whatever you decide to do, whether to continue sharing with us in this particular medium or not, thank you. It has been a privilege to journey with you.

    Comment by Romana — October 2, 2006 @ 11:14 pm

47. Dear Anousheh,

    Let me start by saying that I had almost no passion about space before your trip started. The day you described how you enjoyed watching earth from aobe and how the clouds form those fasicnatign shapes, I felt I am seeing the world from your eyes. Afterwards, I followed all posts and honestly, I felt it came right from your hearth. I had never enjoyed reading a blog this much and I tll you I am a blog bug! So, thank you for sharing your dream with us. I never felt that you are drowned by wealth or fame or anythign like that, while I felt the joy you spreaded to me.

    Criticim is good and makes people to do better but judgment is the worse thing one can do, witouth being in the same position. I have experinced that a lot and as we say in persian “Yek goosh dar kon yeki darvaze” or “Listen and let it go”. Please, please never stop doing what you think is right, becuase that makes the negative ones to grow faster!

    At the end, I tuly adimre your desire, your effort and your beautiful heat. Keep it as is

    Comment by Mansoor — October 2, 2006 @ 11:16 pm

48. Dear Anousheh,

    “Words can’t bring you down..” (from Christina Aguilera - Beautiful)

    We fully believe in you and from the first minute it was clear to me, that you were really going to fulfill your dream, your mission, but not for the sake fame!!! Your dream is clearly a better world.. those who don’t see this, must be blind..

    I’m an engineer, not a doctor, but many women experience after the birth of a child some sad feelings that accompany any depression. Women who suffer from depression after pregnancy often fear that their baby will somehow be harmed and may worry that they are “bad” mothers. It looks to me, that you are suffering this after being back on earth and your “baby” is our “inspiration”!!

    You inspired so many boys and girls out there for a better future, there can’t be a better “mother” for inspiration of private space flight and how dreams can become true..

    So, don’t let you bring you down today!

    Comment by Peter G. — October 2, 2006 @ 11:16 pm

49. You couldn’t sleep?!! Please don’t let the negative comments spoil your spirit. Weren’t you the one who was talking about putting things in perspective? So, go ahead, put all those unpleasant comments in perspective; and be assured, if those don’t kill you, make you stronger!

    With great admiration

    Comment by Fariba — October 2, 2006 @ 11:20 pm

50. 

    Don’t worry about the hateful minority. They’re generaly attention seekers, misinformed, or just plain mean, and they’re certainly not worth getting upset over.

    No matter what people say, if you’ve inspired just one person to do great things, nothing else really matters.

    Comment by xmkrx — October 2, 2006 @ 11:20 pm

51. I hope you will not decide to discontinue your blog because of a few criticisms. It is not your place to please the world; just to be true to yourself. Let history make its own judgment. If there is one thing the world is sorely lacking in, it is heroes…and I and many others have found one in you.

    You have been an inspiration to thousands, whether it was your intention or not, and that is a good thing. I, for one, hope I will have the privilege of following your adventure for a long time yet to come.

    Comment by Nicholas — October 2, 2006 @ 11:25 pm

52. That is what the delete button is for on the computer. There will always be negative people. Here in Texas we have a saying “you would grip if you were hung with a new rope” Don’t let them get you down. Just keep on blogging.

    Comment by Jimmy — October 2, 2006 @ 11:27 pm

53. Anousheh from reading your blog I feel close to say that you are the one that pursued my dreams as well. You did what so many people around a world dream of including myself. When I read about you and your accomplishments I feel I have received that as an Iranian woman as well, you make me proud. You pursued your dreams and many more :-). Don’t care about comments, you are a kind and good hearted person who had a dream and the path was open for you to go for it. Hope one day I would be the second Iranian women in space because that has been my dream as well since childhood. I feel you spoke for so many like us.

    I cannot wait to read a book which you are going to write in future, I like to learn from people like you
    Thank you

    Comment by Firouzeh — October 2, 2006 @ 11:28 pm

54. Anousheh, You did something awesome. I enjoyed reading your candid comments on your blog site. Please keep it up. I am jealous that I couldn’t have gone with you on your journey. From your comments, it really made me feel like I was there beside you on the journey.
    The people who have given negative comments are most likey short sited and not very adventurous themselves. None the less, you did a remarkable job. Please keep the faith and know that thousands, maybe millions of people support you.
    Please keep on dreaming and doing what makes you happy.
    I am glad you started this Blog site to share your experiences.

    Comment by J. E. Thompson — October 2, 2006 @ 11:37 pm

55. I really enjoyed reading about your trip. Dont let the negative comments get you down… you cant please everyone.

    Comment by gentle_breeze — October 2, 2006 @ 11:41 pm

56. Dear Anousheh:
    I am so proud of you
    من این مطلب را مخصوصا به زبان فارسی نوشتم تا ان دسته از افرادی که به فارسی برای شمامطالب نا امید و مایوس کننده فرستادن بخوانند
    من خودم در ایران زندگی میکنم و بیشتر مطالبی که در نشریات وسایتهای اینترنتی داخل کشورراجب شمامطلب مینویسن را دنبال میکنم .من به جرات میتوانم بگم تا به امروز 2-10-2006 بیش از 98% تمام این نشریات از شما به عنوان یک ایرانی کاملا موفق با اهدافی روشن و الهام بخش یاد کرده اند .
    حتی بهترین برنامه تخصوصی نجوم ,شبکه تلویزیون ایران به نام (اسمان شب) چند ویژه برنامه در مورد موضوع سفر شما تهیه کرده بود .
    دریکی از ان برنامه یک دعوت از علاقه مندان سفر شما به فضا شد تا در همایشی جهت اشنایی با شما و اهداف سفر شما شرکت کنند و با استقبال بی نظری روبرو شد (جای برای 300 نفر ولی شرکت کنندها حدود 600 نفر! تمام صندلها پر شده بود !! دیگه جا حتی برای ایستادن در سالن نبود!!! حتی علاقمندان حاضر بودن از بیرون سالن فقط صدای کارشناسان را بشنون , بدون تصویر !!!!! این علاقه مندان 3 ساعت تمام بر روی پا ایستاده بودن !!!!!! ,در ان همایش بیانیه از طرف رییس پژوهشکده هوا و فضا ایران به منظور ارج نهادن به سفر و اهداف شما از خوانده شد !!!!!!! ) در اخر این همه استقبال بی نظیر از این همایش موجب شگفتی تمام حضار و الخصوص مچریان و برپا کنندگان شده بود و از تمام حضار به خاطر این همه عشق تشکر کردن . {البته من از اینجا , برای برپای ان همایش تشکر میکنم }
    خب این تازه یک شهر ایران بود که در روز دوم سفر شما یک همچین همایشی برگزار شد .
    از اوضاع احوال سایتهای ایرانی شما فقط سری به سایت http://www.spacescience.ir بزنید تا ببینید چه پوشش خبری کاملی از شما تهیه کرده است .
    انصاری عزیز من البته فکر میکنم شما با این محدود زمانی یغامها اوایل سفرخود را خواندید اگه شما پیغامهای روز برگشت توجه کنیید فکر نکنم یک مطلب نا امید کننده و یا مایوس کننده داشته باشید
    من قبلا هم برای شما نامه نوشته بودم ( ان زمانی که در مدار زمین در ایستگاه بین المللی بودید ) و به شما گفته بودم حتی من شما رو به عنوان یک الگوی موفقیت جدید به جای افرادی موفقی مثل انتونی رابینز یا بیل گیتس انتخاب کرده ام و دوست دارم به حتما فعالیت فارسی سایت خودتان رو برای افراد ایرانی بیشتر کنیید .
    تا ایرانیان بتوانند مثل همیشه و بیش از پبش به صورت چهرهای موفق دنیا تبدیل بشن .
    هر چند ه شما الان یک چهره جهانی شده اید
    anyway, nice to see you safe there,
    have good times
    behroz[received]

    Comment by behroz — October 2, 2006 @ 11:41 pm

57. Anousheh,

    Thank you for your authentic communication, and thank you for having the courage to respond to the negative comments. Even though you claim not to be a professional writer, your words and ideas are profound. I can think of a million reasons why what you have done and what you do is inspiring change in our world [and perhaps beyond . . . you are a space traveler after all ]. By fulfilling your dream, you will be inspiring many others to have the courage to reach for the stars. You have inspired me.

    With highest regards,
    Michael

    “It does not matter that only a few in each generation will grasp and achieve the full reality of man’s proper stature-and the rest will betray it. It is those few that move the world and give life its meaning-and it is those few that I have always sought to address. The rest are no concern of mine; it is not me or The Fountainhead that they will betray: it is their own souls.”

    - Ayn Rand

    “Pay no attention to what the critics say. A statue has never been erected in honor of a critic.”

    - Jean Sibelius

    Comment by Michael — October 2, 2006 @ 11:43 pm

58. Ok. Here’s the deal. I don’t know how to start to write a comment on your latest entry. How about starting with you just managed to bring tears to my eyes for the first time ever since I started to read your blog reading every single entry. It just shows what a wonderful lovely humble human being you are. Being a public face never been easy to deal with. There are always people who don’t like you. so what? While the whole world was in grief after Steve Irwin died, Germaine Greer said: “the animal world has finally taken its revenge”. You simply have to learn to ignore them. Obviously we don’t know each other and before starting to read this blog all I knew about you was some very distant wealthy woman far far away and I couldn’t even associate myself to you as two iranians but now I am honored being able to get to know you and your personality through this very blog and I am sure millions of people admire this humble down-to-earth (or as we say in Farsi “Khaaky) person called Anousheh as much as I do. Reading each post brings a wide smile to my face from the very first word into the end. It really does. You are an extraordinary person. And by the way when you say “I will continue my blog for now until I get too drained by the negativity to write…” please take it back. It would be a huge disappointment for so many people if you stop writing. I feel I am talking to you in person as I am typing these words. Hope to see you some time whenever you visit Los Angeles.

    Comment by Space Enthusiast — October 2, 2006 @ 11:43 pm

59. Hi Anousheh,

    I fear I do not have sufficient skill with words to truly express how motivational your entries have been…This is just to let you know that there are many many of us really really appreciate what you have shared with us over the course of your journey…Thank you for sharing for experience.. When any of us reach outer space in the years to come, we’ll surely let you know that you made a difference .. goodbye till then, and thank you once again

    Comment by another person from the usually silent majority :) — October 2, 2006 @ 11:46 pm

60. Dear Anousheh,
    You are an extremely brave and courageous woman! Remember why you did all this in the first place and what your goal was. Don’t let the negative forces distract or discourage you in the least! Be prepared like you were for the landing and brace yourself for the attacks “like a million needles in your back” (your very own words!)but don’t weaken your position for a single moment!!! The forces of love and admiration that millions of people have for you are by far more powerful and will protect you through it all
    Take care of yourself and keep smiling that beautiful smile!
    ZaZa

    Comment by ZaZa — October 2, 2006 @ 11:46 pm

61. We can all see the pictures of you in space, but a camera can’t tell us how you experienced it. Thats what the writing is for; and i suspect that you admittedly wearing your heart on your sleeve makes you that much better at it. I expected a web log documenting pragmatic issues of spaceflight, but you managed to give us a hint of what it was actually like, from a refreshingly honest human perspective. Thanks for that!
    If some are so ditrusting of your honesty that they accuse you of grandstanding, it’s their loss. Don’t let their cynicism drag you down. Besides, look at how many people you’ve touched!

    Best wishes..
    th.

    Comment by Th. — October 2, 2006 @ 11:47 pm

62. Hello Anousheh and all:)

    Thinking more about what you wrote above, I totally understand your feeling to try to make everybody happy:). This sounds impossible but I want to share an experience:

    I visited once a village in Morocco where the inhabitants had brought water, electricity and some other lacking infrastructures to their village. This project was led by an NGO created by a few natives who had meet success in their life in other main cities of Morocco. One of the founders explained that in order to involve the (rather small) population with such a success, they had taken the time to address each one of the inhabitants’ concern, assuring that as long as there was even one voice againstit, they would not proceed.

    I was used to the common attitude that one should act and do what he thinks is right, and there were always some negative people, who should care about and just dismiss the case.

    I realized that deep inside me I understood their point. Needless to say I don’t mean that in case of a major catastrophe or a personal Endeavour one should stand a poll and reach 100% of the votes. But I believe that we should try –when possible, when needed - to always address each and every view. First we “might” learn from it:), it is also a respectful attitude toward one another. Once the others feel your concern you are rewarded by some spectacular release of energy.

    I promise not to post again…….. for a while:)

    Sincerely
    Homeyra

    Comment by Homeyra — October 2, 2006 @ 11:49 pm

63. Anousheh,

    Having been around a long time as you know, there will always be some who will tell you how to spend your money. They have a very short sided view of what you did, it wasn’t about money, it was about a dream. You lived your dream, and you shared it with so many. Because of what you have done there are others that will work to achieve their dream, just because of you. I read the negative comments too, and Anousheh, it would have been so easy for you just give away the money, but you risked your life to show others that the dream can be had, through work and effort. How much more could you give. I think of the old saying about giving someone a fish and they eat for a day, teach them how to fish and they will eat for the rest of their life (OK someone will tell me the right way to say it). Anousheh, you have taught so many how to fish in the last few days, the world will be so much better for what you have done. You have inspired those that will go out and inspire others, generations from now what you did will still have an impact.

    Comment by Bill Belshaw — October 2, 2006 @ 11:49 pm

64. eeeeeeee…ki chert o pert gofte?
    ghalat karde

    Comment by ronak — October 2, 2006 @ 11:52 pm

65. Dear Anousheh,

    It’s been wonderful reading all your blog entries and I hope we can all follow you one day. In the meantime it’s been really great and amazing that you’ve shared so much of it with us.

    Please put lots more photos on your flickr site. You might notice you have a “pro” account now

    Comment by Bruce Hoult — October 2, 2006 @ 11:55 pm

66. Anousheh,
    Do not give up, I will not go over what has been said above, I agree with them.
    Stay focus on your great life you have and the most important thing I can say to you is HAVE FUN and enjoy every minute.

    Yes I am jealous I would luv to be up there in space.
    I am proud of you and your fellow team mates.

    Philip

    Comment by Philip C — October 3, 2006 @ 12:00 am

67. Dear Mrs. Ansari,

    Remember: “Aquila non capit muscas.” Also, of course, “Semper Fidelis.”

    Congratulations and my very best wishes to you, your family, your crewmates, and everyone who helped make your dream come true.

    My memories of Iran are of a similar vintage as yours, though certainly not as extensive, as I was only a visitor (some might have called me a “tourist”). My visit to Iran has had an important and enduring impact on me. I especially miss the bazaar and “doog” in Isfahan.

    NASA’s Astronauts have always inspired me, they are all execeptional people aside from spaceflight and exploration. Yet, as I read the amazing responses on your blog, especially those from young women in Iran, I realize that you have a unique ability and opportunity to carry a message of hope and inspiration to a far wider audience.

    Your success and accomplishments reflect far more than simply acquired wealth. You are the product of innate talent and ambition, a loving and supportive family, and most importantly of all, the blessings of freedom and independence to pursue such wonderful opportunities. I understand and support your decision to wear the colors of the Iranian flag along with the flag of your country. Many will attempt to make an issue of that decision, as they will gripe about “wasting” the cost of your fare.

    So be it. You cannot and will not resolve those debates alone. You cannot and will not make anyone “happy”. What you have done is to light the fires of imagination in millions of people across the planet. Your personality and your smile, your report of the scent of “burnt almond cookies”…you are the right woman, at the right time, in the right place. I am very proud of you.

    You are a leader now, whether you sought fame or not, it has found you. Don’t let the negativity get to you. Your critics are consumed by it, that’s why they criticize you.
    Lead on, many will follow. Like a previous poster said, it’s time we leave the cradle of earth, and venture out into the stars. Your example, the inspiration you provide, and your efforts via the X-PRIZE, will help show us the way.

    Take very good care of yourself, I hope you are recovering well from micro-gravity, and…don’t let the flies get you down!

    Comment by USMC, Retired (Isfahan, Iran, 1978) — October 3, 2006 @ 12:01 am

68. 

    Ground Ops knows about the Delete button and might should have used it more often…

    However, it was not used once so far during the moderation of comments on this post.

    All verklempt.. discuss among yourselves.

    Comment by X PRIZE — October 3, 2006 @ 12:02 am

69. Dear Anousheh,

    I can not even imagine that permanent grin has been converted to a frown of disappointment.We don’t let you to do that.Because now you don’t belong to yourself, but to all of dreamers througout the world.
    Don’t let those few negativities convert the beautiful “World hold on” to “I couldn’t sleep”.Although I think you certainly can understand constructive criticisms and suggestions.
    The following words had been prepared before and I hoped to post them immediately after your new message,to be the first one.But others seem more swift than me!

    Dear Anousheh

    It is too hard for me to leave a comment here in your space blog. Usually I prefer to wait a little until the ado slakes and more rationality comes up.

    But this time I can not withstand, because I fear a golden opportunity may be lost.

    As to your excellent flight to the orbit, it can not be overestimated that how much it was (and is) wonderful, precious, inspiring, and memorable to us. But I would like to make another point.

    You have just got your big fish and generously invited us to share and enjoy. I am sure you don’t mean we just wait for your next catch and again enjoy YOUR fish ! So I think it is the time you begin teaching us “How to fish” before the extinction of this great volcano which you ignited.

    Let’s be more realist. In a few months all these commenters and dreamers will disappear again in their workaday lives. Most of them even will not remember your full name!

    Your invaluable WAVE will damp sooner than that you can believe, unless you inject more energy into it (ex. your next success, and again we will just spectate and applaud! “watching world go by”) or help us to decrease the damping constant of our overdamped oscillations(in the jargon of electronics and network theory, do you remember?).

    We (realist dreamers all over the world) admire you very much, but now that we are ready to move we need the blueprint of the project, the “know-how”, step by step. An instruction manual will be fine! Do you believe that a general recipe is not possible or useful because everyone has her/his own dreams which deserve very special approaches?
    Ok, you just tell us YOUR story (of successes) step by step.We will try to customize it for ourselves.For instance, how could you study in two of the most accredited universities in the US? (Yes it is a dream for many!) Or how did you manage to found a company (TTI) with just $50,000 and after a few years it was rated as one of the 500 fastest-growing companies in the US and eventually was sold for over $500,000,000 ?!! ( No, this one is an unimaginable dream for all!). How did you get that bouquet of invaluable awards? How? How? … How?

    Please don’t tell us about theories, just unveil the practical steps for us.
    Tell us “THE” secret!

    You thrilled our hearts, our lives. I hope we can thrill your heart, your life, too.
    I have a lot to write about for you. But now it’s near the dawn and I have to go for eating “sahari”. I pray for you and your family.

    Kamran Derakhshani
    Tehran

    Comment by Kamran Derakhshani — October 3, 2006 @ 12:04 am

70. 

    Thanks Bruce Hoult — hadn’t noticed, how very nice! Anousheh will be needing that Pro Account –

    Comment by X PRIZE — October 3, 2006 @ 12:04 am

71. I have one word for all you’ve done:

    FAITH.

    You bring tears of joy to my eyes. You have accomplished so much in your life, and the best part is that you are not even done. You have so much more to do and you give so much hope and pride to human race and especially to Iranian all over the world.

    Comment by Jahan — October 3, 2006 @ 12:07 am

72. Hello Anousheh.
    You can never make every body happy.No one can.
    As the great Shamlou said,people who cant or will not try to understand you ,try to push you in defence.Thats when you have to explain every thing you believe in.And even after that they wont believe or try to understand or tolerate you.By going in defensive position You only lose your own valuable time.(of cource they will become glad of that).The time that you need to spend for writing or thinking new things will be gone by than.
    Please continue your way and dont try to explain it to them .
    These kind of people just cant imagin that the Earth is round,and simply are not intrested to know more than wat they can see with their eyes.Most people like your philosophy.
    A.Shamlou: Ey kash mitavanestam,bar shaneh haye khod beneshanam _in khalghe bi shomar ra,gerde hobabe khak begardanam,ta ba do chashme khish bebinand keh khorshideshan kojast va bavaram konand.Ey Kash Mitavanestam!It is now 2 AM hier in Holland and i could not sleep either before i react on this.Go Anoosheh Go!

    Comment by keikavos — October 3, 2006 @ 12:08 am

73. اگه منم بودم خوابم نمیبرد:
    با تمام آبی آسمان می نویسم در دفتر بزرگ کهکشان . تا یادت برای همیشه بماند .
    از تو می نویسم. از خودم . از لحظات زندگی . لحظاتی که بود . و امروز چه چیزی باقی مانده . یک دفتر بزرگ خط خطی شده . تمام خط نوشته هایش آبی ست .
    روزی آسمان تاریک شد و دلش گرفت . آنقدر که فریادی بلند کشید و نتوانست بغضش را نگاه دارد . بلند بلند گریست . درست مثل همان روز دلتنگی های من . سرم روی زانو هایت بود و بلند گریه می کردم . مثل همان روز دلتنگی آسمان گریستم . بلندِ بلند . و تمام شد . آبی آسمان قطره اشکی شده بود و پائین لغزید . آبی نمام شد و دیگر نتوانست ابرها را از جلوی صورتش بردارد . و چهره من هنوز نتوانسته ابرهایش را کنار بگذارد . آبی آن تمام شد . و قصه اش هنوز نا تمام مانده .

    Comment by جاهد ملک زاده — October 3, 2006 @ 12:13 am

74. Dear Anousheh,

    Your reaction to the negitive remarks shows just how good of a person you are. While you never wanted to make anyone angry at you, anyone who wrote a negitive or angry remark to you is probably a negitive and angry person in general, esp. with their own lives. That your hurt by what they write shows just how much you care about EVERYONE.

    You gave us so much positive energy and inspiration to look inside ourselves and find that light that you say we all have. Many have looked, and many have found that light, myself included. If your feeling drained by the negativity, please feel free to lean on our shoulder for support and love. It’s the least we could do. It’s not the weight of the world on your shoulders that your feeling, it’s your body getting used to gravity again.

    The world has just seen an intelligent, beautiful, romantic down-to-earth person fulfill a dream they had since their childhood in the skies above them, and dared to share an even bigger dream, one of peace and goodwill for everyone. Please don’t be hurt if everyone didn’t get it Anousheh. It went, well, right over their heads, so to speak.

    Get some sleep!!!
    Joe LePage Florida, USA

    Comment by Joe LePage — October 3, 2006 @ 12:19 am

75. Anouseh, don’t think hard about negatives. Their writed sort of peoples, who loved paint all around in black colour.
    After discussion with this squalid peoples you have been draggled of stinking grime.
    So why? This blog reading thousands laughing (and sometime crying) peoples from many countries around the world!
    Their interesting your thoughts, your feelings, your experiences and YOU as so attractive women!
    Don’t stop posting in blog! Your need so many peoples!
    Read hundreds grateful comments! Some peoples has first time deep thinking about goals in life. And you have been as catalyst!
    Thank you, Anousheh!

    Misha, Moscow

    P.S. Special for financial_advisors who_loved_give_suggest how_spend_anothers_money:
    Stop posting your jealousy and stupid nonsense! Earn money and advice to itself!

    Comment by Misha — October 3, 2006 @ 12:36 am

76. Anousheh,

    Those who dream, are the ones that take their imaginations and turn them into the physical limits of possibility. I’m sure there was the few who laughed at the Wright brothers when they decided to design a ‘flying vehicle’. The outcries that were heard when President Kennedy announced the nation’s goal to reach the moon and land on it by the end of the 60’s. And I’m sure everyone has their own personal experiences in adversity and negative feedback. We are so incredibly proud of you, beyond any description words can provide. You have achieved what many of us have dreamed since we looked up at the night sky, and what fewer of us hope to accomplish in their lifetimes. I am an avid pilot, and quite in the community around here. As a matter of fact, I’m returning to flying after a year and half pause that resulted from not too disimilar of a negative feedback. I think that really enforces your will and determination to fulfill your passion. I’m only 18, and they always say…I shouldn’t hope to accomplish much now, or accept any notriety because that would be ‘wrong’. You’ve inspired thousands across the globe, here in the US of A and in Iran. I think that counts for more than any negative comment can hope to even dent or diminish. When I fly, I think of those people on the ground who say ‘oh why do this’ or ‘nah, you shouldn’t its pointless’, and I still can’t help but be mesmerized at how they are still on the ground, wondering what its like to be up there, and I am up there…Now I look up at the moon, and with that same awe, say ‘one day’. Let the negative be your metaphorical magnetic force. You are positive energy…so let the negative be the force to drive you higher and farther…as far and as high as your imagination will let you. Ok…I think I am done with this rant.

    Salams, Love, Peace
    Oshma

    Comment by Oshma Alian — October 3, 2006 @ 12:39 am

77. Live Long and Prosper !

    Don’t worry too much - a lot of us ‘Get It.’

    Let us hope and work toward continued scholarship to find the ‘loopholes’ in the laws of physics - to allow humans further travel onward and upward to other stars throughout the Milky-way Galaxy.

    It can be done and it will be done.

    The X-prize has inspired people to take on the challenge of space for themselves, and more good things are to come…

    Comment by Trekker Regmet — October 3, 2006 @ 12:40 am

78. Dear Mrs. Ansari,

    The Interent is a funny (odd) place, as I’m sure you know. To some people, the thrill of life is to ‘bring down’ the ‘king of the hill’ (popular person, good person, etc). To them it is a way of life: some of them are superb at playing it. They find your weak points (”I can’t stand anyone being angry at me”) and they dig, dig, dig.

    Where is it written you must play their game? From the movie WAR GAMES (as best I remember), “Strange game: where the only winning move is not to play”.

    Not to worry Mrs. Ansari. Don’t cast your pearls before swine. You have achived your dream and begun to expand on it by encouraging and inspiring others. The swine want to steal your dream away to the dark side, to dishearten others.

    Focus. Gather your strength: and with lifted spirits, tend the garden you have planeted with your dream. Make it grow

    Kindest regards,
    Clevis Jones

    Comment by Clevis Jones — October 3, 2006 @ 12:53 am

79. Anousheh jan:

    You inspired me to do what I have always loved best - creative writing - and I haven’t stopped since I started. If it weren’t for you and your courage, I might have never caught on and pursued my own dreams simply because I was too involved in day-to-day activities and might have never had a chance to see the light.

    Reading some of the blogs here, it is evident that you have inspired so many others around the globe who will in turn transfer this energy to their friends, relatives, kids, etc. Paper publications do so much to transfer thoughts and ideas, but with your trip up in space, you proved once and for all that cyberspace is an extremely powerful tool for people to share and extend their feelings.

    I hope you rest and get a good night sleep. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.
    Love,

    Neda

    Comment by Neda — October 3, 2006 @ 1:02 am

80. The fact of the matter is that the Soyuz has three seats. Someone would have been sitting in that third seat on launch day no matter who they were. So $20 Million would have been spent by someone either way. I think you spent that money as wisely as anybody, even in such a way as to inspire many others.

    It seems that the criticism of your trip has come from those who are too concerned about money. However money is only good for material possessions. Throwing money at the problems of the world won’t help one bit. With enough money you could feed the entire world for today, but what about tommorow?

    Yet inspiration, if properly recieved can last a lifetime. One of the people you inspired to try their hardest may end up working toward solving world hunger, and that’s saying nothing of the possibilities of space travel helping humanity.

    Comment by Andrew — October 3, 2006 @ 1:06 am

81. Dear Anousheh,

    I wrote an early message of encouragement on one of your pre-flight posts and then only read — no, EXPERIENCED all your blog posts since then as so many others have. I only read a few comments and saw only one or two negative ones - but I guess there were more. Many people have written here with genuine and sometimes eloquent words of encouragement - I add my voice and thanks to theirs.

    To have someone share these experiences in such a heartfelt and inspiring way as you have done is truly a gift, a gift to everyone who has read your words or even heard or thought about you. You did not spend that money on yourself. You shared the gift of your experience with the world. Space is an important part of our future, but it is not about space really, it’s about what space can do for humanity, what hope can do for humanity, and what HUMANITY can do for humanity. You are a positive symbol and a positive force in so many ways. Thank you for including us (and our daughters and our sons) in your beautiful dreams. And please keep writing your blog!

    Best wishes,
    Bruce Irving

    Comment by Bruce Irving — October 3, 2006 @ 1:10 am

82. Dear Anousheh.
    Just think about Galileo,Than you will be happy again .the same people like these were the bruno`s killers.
    Negative people wont dare to do this again and if so,you just send me their worthless emails.I promise you,every one would get his answer and that is:(get a life!)
    You give so much joy and hoop to people.I wish that i had 10000000 people to think of me even if there were a hundred of negatives among them.of course i would have not hesitate a second to ignore those negatives.Please concentrate on your program and dont try to convince them ,that your right.I wait for the rest of the story by you,and pictures or video`s.Thank you very very very very very much!

    Comment by keikavos — October 3, 2006 @ 1:15 am

83. Anousheh,

    To put it simply….”You GO girl!”

    Comment by Brad — October 3, 2006 @ 1:18 am

84. Dear Anousheh,

    Congratulations for completion of your mission. I am very proud of you and what you have accomplished through your life so far. I am proud of you, an Iranian women that shows the world despite the old fashion Iranian culture which prevents women from various activities in society - that even now is ruling in Iran - there are women like you who could stand by themselves and do what so many have dreamed of. I admire your courage.

    I was following your progress day by day since almost six month before the launch till now. However, after I read this last post, I am leaving this comment for you to show my sympathy about some criticism you got in your comments. I am a blogger too. I started almost month after the blast of blogging era over internet. I was writing my daily life and my point of views about various subjects in the U.S., in Iran and around the world.

    After five years of blogging experience, I can say it is very exhosting to convince everyone that writing harsh words about what I was writing in my blog is not right. You beautifully explained your experience in space, you dedicated your time and money and your heart to explain in such a wonderful way what we missed up there! Instead, some of us do not remove the black curtain covered our eyes and our hearts. I think we better change our views. Let’s look at things differently and keep the harsh criticism for ourselves.

    God bless you Anousheh jan and keep up the good work.

    - Safa

    Comment by Safa — October 3, 2006 @ 1:18 am

85. Keep up the good work and please dont get discouraged by the negatives. You are an inspiration to all of us who are chasing our dreams. You have become what many young Iranians need and lack (a couragous, inspiring, sweet, caring, HONEST, and successful role model who has the ability to make a difference in the world. You will become one of the greats in IRanian history. And finally, thank you for your lovely and inspiring blog.
    -iman

    Comment by iman — October 3, 2006 @ 1:22 am

86. salam
    anousheh aziz en 3 nazary hast ke midam
    manam 1 eraniam va behtoon eftekhar mikonam
    kash mish=od 1 teke az faza ro beared ???na
    salamat va shad bashed

    Comment by elahe rostami — October 3, 2006 @ 1:31 am

87. Anousheh,
    Please do not feel upset, you have done so much to inspire so many to allow these negative people to get you down.
    As you quoted earlier
    “And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people perm