It has set me thinking about Islam, Islam and Christianity, terrorism by extremist groups, and Islam in America. Admittedly, my thoughts are muddled. First are news headlines. “10 Killed in Afghanistan by Taliban.” I am outraged by these acts of senseless violence. How could rational humans commit such savagery? On the other hand, Islam also brings to mind numerous friends: the guy in my college dorm from Jordan who was an Imam at the local mosque, my friends in NW China whose families displayed unparalleled and selfless hospitality that would shame most Americans, and my Uzbek friend that is continuing his education to ultimately provide a better future for his young family. I’m torn between the mistrust and suspicion fueled by the media and my own experience that portrays a more moderate Islam, one where people, like me, simply want to better themselves and provide the best they can for their family. I desperately want to assume the latter and distance myself from the more sinister portrayal in the news. In the midst of this inner struggle, one thing continues to come to mind. Islam is no longer far off and distant. We have to come to grips with the fact that Islam is firmly rooted in our country and will most likely continue to grow. Even in my small city, there are reportedly 6 mosques. We should acknowledge the reality that our coworkers, classmates, neighbors, and politicians are Muslim and seek to understand our neighbors. We should guard against hatred, suspicion, and mistrust based on the actions of a few. Even more, a friend challenged me recently to apply this same grace toward those who respond to Islam with bigotry. Admittedly it is for me easier to love my Muslim neighbor than it is a professing Christian that spouts hatred out of ignorance and fear. Personal experiences with Muslims have been meaningful, enriching, and enjoyable: visiting each other homes, playing with their children, sharing meals, singing songs, and discussing faith at length. These memories give much to draw from when confronting my own prejudice and a mostly negative portrayal of Islam in the media. I would naively like to assume that anti-Islamic attitudes are simply a matter of ignorance, easily solved by a meaningful cross cultural experience. This is usually not the case. So, just when the issue begins to settle in my mind, I notice a headline on the TV behind the person with whom I’m conversing, “Ground Zero Mosque Debate.” My attitudes and ideas are challenging again and I’m left wondering how to respond. ..
To be continued…..