Support for Jill Carroll

I don't even know where to start. I've opposed this war from the start, and this is part of the consequence I've feared. The US is making enemies of the world, and Jill's kidnapping is the result of the powerless striking out as at perceived targets. Jill is one of the clearer voices reporting on the horror that is this war, and to silence her in such a horrific way does so much harm to all of us, including Iraqis.

I beg those holding Jill to realize the power in her words - in her reporting - and that you lose much more than this battle if you add her name to those lost. Please look in your hearts and find the compassion that must be there and release her.

Sheryl Belcher, Seattle, Wash., USA

I pray hourly for Jill's release. And I also pray that anyone in that country that is being unjustly held be set free as well. Then Jill's work and the brave sacrifices she and her parents are making will not be in vain. I implore those who are holding her to believe that the world cares about their concerns too. We are listening.

Sarah Nelson, N. Kingstown, R.I., USA

My thoughts and prayers are with the Carroll family for Jill's safe return. I can't imagine the anguish they must be feeling. Jill's courage and passion for her faith and work are to be more than admired. I keep anticipating the news on her safe release and return. I pray too that her captors hear the statements from the Muslims so opposed to this and the other kidnappings.

Amy Smith, Raleigh, N.C., USA

To harm Jill would not be the way of Islam or the Koran.

To set her free is to show honesty - needed honesty when one has made a mistake. We each need to seek the higher way in our own lives. Not only those who took Jill without knowing who she really is, but each one of us. Each one can find a higher way, and thereby help each other as well.

Hugh Bishop, Edina, Minn., USA

The more that I learn about Jill Carroll, the more I pray that she be released unharmed to continue to speak truth about this war. She is one of the souls in this life who bring light to dark corners of this world and who need to be allowed continue to shine the light of truth in her work. I pray she is set free today.

Pete Padilla, Espanola, N.M., USA

I would ask that Ms. Carroll's abductors please release her immediately. The longer she remains abducted and under threat of death, the greater the poor exposure cast upon the abductors posing as negotiators in the war for a stable government and self-determination in Iraq. Such actions do greater harm to any such cause trying to demand a voice in Iraqi affairs. Ms. Carroll's only mission has been to practice fair and impartial journalism that goes much further to ultimately advance the cause of all Iraqis.

Kelly Whiting, Avon, Miss., USA

There is no doubt in my mind that Jill is feeling the outpouring of immense love, support, and calm peace from humans alike around the world. No wall, cell, or barrier can withstand the power of God's gentle hands holding her.

Mindy Feldheim, Hilliard, Ohio., USA

To Jill's captors: All of you and all of us in the United States have a long-felt desire for justice in our affairs. Please know that an honest journalist who tells your story will do more for your cause than any vengeful action. Jill has demonstrated that love and honesty in support of your brethren. It is important for you and your cause to let her tell your story right now.

Dean Parkins, Seattle, Wash., USA

Harmful events are always disturbing. But never have I experienced the compassion, or sense of closeness to anyone as I do to Jill Carroll. Jill's belief in the Iraqi people reaches a common place deep in thought; it reflects our humanity and exemplifies our capacity to love!

This spirit moving through uncounted millions effecting pleas for her safe release may well exemplify the unspoken word - or will - of God!

Dinah Dubble, Belfair, Wash., USA

One can respect the captors' desire to be heard and how important it is for everyone to be better listeners. In a state of quiet listening, pure words from the merciful Almighty find their way into man's heart. And feeling this loving presence impels one to act in accordance with holy wisdom establishing harmony among men.

Barbara Kennedy, Sacramento, Calif., USA

Not an hour goes by that I don't think of Jill and her family. I send my thoughts and prayers to these courageous people. I saw Mary Beth's interview, and with admiration recognized the intelligent, thoughtful and dedicated woman that I had the pleasure of working with at Salem High School. There are so many people sending you positive wishes and thoughts. Bless you all.

Carolyn Anulewicz, Plymouth, Mich., USA

The Quaker expression "Let your life speak" continues to run through my head and my heart as I pray for Jill Carroll's safe release. Jill has shown us the best example of that saying, at a remarkably young age. She has my deepest respect and admiration for her courageous quest for truth, as does her family for giving her the love and support to do so. Our world needs many more people who have the compassion and courage that Jill Carroll has shown us.

Diana Dyer, Ann Arbor, Mich., USA

Jill was my dear friend and colleague at the Jordan Times 2002-2003. Not many may have been close enough to realize, in the short time she was in Jordan, the kind of journalist and human being she is: decent, sincere, kind, and bright. I hope her captors will realize that and let her continue on the same path. The world needs such dedicated reporters to enlighten people to issues and human suffering - the story behind the story in times of crises. The strength of Jill's family has made us stronger. It's been tough waiting for news of her, but friends and family are hoping to see Jill in Amman very soon before she flies over to be with her family.

Aline Banayan, Amman, Jordan

I, as an Arab American and Muslim, am ashamed of this kidnapping and all the others. She is a wonderful messenger with great affinity to justice and truth. May her kidnappers see the light and set her free. I wish they would understand that the notions of justice and caring are more far-reaching with the American public than holding innocent people hostage.

Sof Dandashi, Corbin, Ky., USA

Jill has blessed the people of Iraq through her truthful reporting that "blesses all and injures none" as the foundational message of The Christian Science Monitor states. I believe that Love is more powerful than hate, and that in fact "No power can withstand divine Love," as the founder of the Monitor, Mary Baker Eddy, states. The book of Psalms says, "Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other." Jill has upheld the "truth" through her reporting so it is now the honorable right for those holding her to uphold the "mercy" part of this promise and release her so that she can continue with her good work of truthful reporting that "blesses all and injures none."

Tom Yeaple, Newtown, Pa., USA