Going Green

Greeting, fellow bloggers and readers of TRS. I've been drawn back after an extended hiatus--sabbatical, perhaps?--dragging my feet, kicking and screaming, because I cannot stop thinking about going green.

It seems everyone around us, from esteemed blogger Andrew Sullivan to our own Harrogate has changed their identifying display to the color in support of Iranian protesters. Until this morning, I've been skeptical of this sign of solidarity. "What do they care?" I thought, referring to the people of Iran. As late as last night, I told Solon that I found it somewhat empty to make so easy a change and do nothing else. "We're all in their support," I told him. "I don't know a single American who isn't. So what are these Greenies doing that's so important, making an outward sign of it?" Normally I'm all for the grassroots movement, but this one seems just too easy. Click a button, it says to me. That's all you have to do to help these people.

I don't know if it's the lack of sleep or the lack of coffee, but I started to change my tune this morning. If the Cub cared--or spoke English, for that matter--I'd right this moment be asking her about Iranian citizen's access to American media. For I truly don't know the answer. Are American bloggers truly speaking to the Iranian populous? Is that their intent? Since our own government has--wisely, I think--shied away from any pointed, tangible support of the protesters, is this more important?

(Both girls are awake now and demanding my thoughtful attention. More later, but I'd love input.)