Fear Cripples, and Absolute Fear Cripples Absolutely

Dear Readers:

Fears change as we grow; but the nature of fear never changes. Fear is an irrationality that most people cannot explain to themselves or others. Though the Quran says that we should fear only God, most people experience fear over things other than the Almighty’s power and His undeniable hold on our lives.

Ever since the media has started perpetuating the worst possible image of Islam, Americans have lived in a state of unrelenting fear concerning Muslims. They do not want another September 11th tragedy to occur and seek protection from those that they are afraid will harm the United States. I understand the fear, but I must know. Will you let the actions of a few speak for and represent me as a Muslim? I am a dutiful daughter, a loving sister, a loyal friend, and a diligent student.

I stand before you and openly condemn the abomination committed by the hijackers that fateful day. But to most Americans, I am still one of them. But I am not a terrorist. Do you want me to grovel for the mistakes that I did not commit? I readily will do that. Do you want me to suffer? I am suffering. But you will not find peace of mind unless you let go of your fear of me. I am one of you. Please accept that I have a heart in my bosom, that I bleed the same color you do when I get hurt, that even I get frustrated with a bad nose congestion. I too have good days and bad days. I am not any different than you. But more importantly, I could be your daughter, your sister, your friend, or your student. And I know I am not. But I could be. And just in case, I accidentally run into you, I promise to smile so that you will know that we share and speak the same language of humanity.

Sincerely,
Ek Umeed