Prologue

I was born during Iraq-Iran war. In fact, I was born shortly after an airstrike over my hometown, Tehran. “What a timing” one might say. Growing up as an Iranian is challenging even inside the country.  I feel privileged to have a supporting and loving family. I was free from restrictions and never judged or questioned for my preferences and beliefs. As a kid, I spent most of the times with boys and avoid anything that was considered “Girly”. However, I felt isolated when I started school since they are gender divided. At first it almost felt like being an only boy in girls’ school. Soon I realized there’s nothing too girly to be a girl and made good friends. Education system is different in Iran. There’s no freedom of speech or expression. There’s a drawn line and you’re forced to walk that line. This is why families have more crucial role in children’s life. Home and within the trusted family and friends group, would be the only places to express your thoughts without any fear. There’s no access to free Internet and many books are banned. The News and national TV filled with lies and there are signs of censorship everywhere. Government has full control on media and anything related to it. But all of these restrictions made people thirstier for truth and more determined to learn. Using different methods to go around the filters and taking risks to watch foreign News and TV channels are part of Iranians’ daily life. Despite all of the hardship, I’m proud to be an Iranian and feel blessed to be a part of my family.