Every country and nation lives with its ideals, myths, and symbols. Imam Khomeini (ra), with his great existential dimensions, was a role model and a hero based on realities for the Iranian people. Martyr Hussain Fahmideh is another hero, on his level, for teenagers; and, he will always remain in our memories as a hero.
October 27, 1996
Today is "Youth and Teen Day," named after the event of the martyrdom of a teenage Basiji--Martyr Hussain Fahmideh. He represents an example of when real characters become a symbol and a true hero. We have many similar people throughout our history. There are several events that when narrated today, because of their extraordinary aspects, seem unreal, like a myth or a legend, but they are true stories, indeed. We have, repeatedly, seen and heard of examples in our time, and one of the most beautiful is the martyrdom of this teenage Basiji. He was thirteen years old; but, he was a mature, intelligent, determined and assertive young man who knew his country, knew his imam, knew his enemy, knew the significance of his existence and his actions; and, he donated this capital [his existence] to the dignity of his country, the future of the Revolution, and the interests of his people. His body was gone, but his soul remained alive, his remembrance became eternal, and his memory became a myth. He is a role model.
My dear young ones! Each of you can play a role in assisting your country. Once, an important role was played by "Hussain Fahmideh"; and, others have played their significant roles in various times. One can fight in the arena of religious issues, cultural issues, political issues, ethical issues, forward-looking strategies, increasing hope, making others around them happy, and commitment to the Islamic Sharia which is the cause for pride of the individual and society. Of course, in these fights, you don’t need to give your life; but, determination and hard work is necessary. Everyone can take on an effective role in their schools, universities, work, etc. Lively, hopeful, and pious youth can insure a history. That is why Zionists, colonizers and world-class company owners tried hard, for many years with the young people of the world, to perhaps pervert the younger generations; take their will-power and hope away; make the future look dark and disappointing in their eyes; make them disappointed about the future and cause ethical and moral problems for them. What you see in the world today, is not accidental.
Statements from a Friday prayer sermon, October 30, 1998
