Gillian Gibbons — Free

I can't imagine what would have happened if a British child had named a teddy bear (named — don't forget — after Theodore Roosevelt) Jesus.

I know that there are different and lesser issues at stake. This is after all about Christianity vs Muslim.

But why should it have to be about anything vs anything? I think an important step towards a larger community has been taken by Sudan's president today. I just hope this gesture of goodwill isn't forgotten in a hurry.

However, the naming of a teddy bear (as in the context of a child's fluffy comfort toy) should hardly be the subject of international outrage, let alone calls for the poor teacher's execution. I am sure that there were no malicious political or religious motives behind the naming (by the class, don't forget) of the toy and I am more hopeful after hearing news of the pardon that such an incident will not appear as reprehensible to Sudan's future generations.

Here's to a smaller world!