Yes, I Was Ignoring You

I've not had much to say about the recent developments in the story between Iran and America...obviously.
I didn't jump on the speculation bandwagon as to the intention behind Bush's lunch invitation to his latest Middle Eastern nemesis or the possible conversational scenarios should the event actually occur - though I did like Mr. Bush (just a little bit) for his efforts toward speaking before bombing this time around.

It's an old story, this business with stalemates and qualifiers, negotiations broken down before they even begin.
I'm not the least bit suprised the offer was finally extended though, considering the voices of disagreement coming out of Saudi Arabia, China, and Russia et al., in response to all the talk of bomb throwing.
I'm also not suprised that the U.S. requires shutting down of Iran's enrichment program before talks can begin.
And it's not exactly shocking that Iran replied with a firm (and probably very tired) "No." while patiently waiting for a proper invitation.

It doesn't seem to me that the United States has any right to go around demanding things of Iran. The U.S. is the spoiled child tantruming at the other kids' getting a piece of the pie. Iran, smartly, ignores the whining and continues as it has, knowing full well that sanctions or no sanctions, at least a good chunk of the planet isn't going to support military strikes headed up by anyone, least of all the States. And who's worried about sanctions anyway? (I've yet to have even the slightest difficulty finding what I need in any respect, and petrol costs less than a pack of gum here.)

Finally, it has gotten to the point where the smaller nations (116 of them, at least) are speaking out in support of Iran's peaceful nuclear program as well - probably realizing that if America is allowed to go down this road (third time in the same neighborhood) there's essentially no telling what or where the next target will be.

I think Bush is making a big mistake, pinning rules down before the discussion can even begin.
Put the idea out there, by all means, let Iran know what it is you want - but don't squander the first opportunity these two great nations have had to meet face to face in over thirty years.
Imagine, George Bush, instead of being remembered as a war-monger, could go down in Brittanica as the president who warmed the chill between the West and the Middle East.
That's some kind of compliment.

George, take advantage of that famous Persian hospitality; there are loads of darling little places to lunch over discussion of the fate of the globe (and Heeva delivers, if you're camera shy), gorgeous parks, great shops to buy gifts for the family, and a view you can't imagine. Just order a kubideh and some tea, smoke the hookah (you've really got to try the strawberry tobacco, yum...) and TALK.
At this point, I'd say it's the least you can do.