should I...or shouldn't I..

...comment when I see something that exasperates me?

This time, I'm going to. I generally avoid writing about political things, tempting though they often are. So, what is it this time? transport policy? political funding? the middle east?
No, it's the vital topic - what do I call a teddy bear?

Surprised? Maybe. I am. I just came home and heard that a British teacher in Sudan has just been jailed for letting her class of 8 year olds name a teddy bear after the chief figure in islam. I choose not to use the name; even though it is one of the most common first names amongst muslim men.

Why am I exasperated? Because it is one of those things that happen.... children use a word in a way that to them is natural, innocent, and without any malice. And adoring or indulgent adults smile and let them.

In many ways, the people who made an issue out of it were themselves acting in a natural way. They saw something that offended or endangered their values and they stood up for what they believe in. Many would applaud that. Many would like to have the courage to stand up and say - no!

And yet I sit here thousands of miles away, wondering what is the most appropriate response. My first reaction was full of anger "how dare they". Now, it's one of sadness. Sadness that an innocent, unthinking act has become front page news. Sadness that a country that has been through so much is again on the front pages. Sadness that a frightened woman is now in jail, fearing for her own safety. Sadness that religion is again being waved in faces.