Presentation vs. Policies.

My mother told me the other day that my younger sister has asked her to send an Eid dress for her. She tell me it must be of Khadi material-- a hand-loomed plain-weave cotton fabric, usually worn by the underprivileged. But now a days it is in fashion. My mother says, " you know her, Swan will feed on a pearl or will die hungry. She only demands the best."
What? Here I am thinking since when did Khadi become the attire of the rich?
This non-relevant conversation kept me up at nights, thinking what is behind this imagery--Swan and Khadi.

25th September, 2008...Venue: UC Berkeley....Speaker: Robert Fisk....
Iraq war is going terribly wrong. America and its allies are losing Afghanistan to Talibans, etc. etc. etc..Even though, the commander-in-chief has already declared Mission Accomplished. But the reality is, surge is on in Iraq and Taliban are not only reunited, in fact, they are taking hold of major portion of Afghanistan. The West has failed to establish democracy in Iraq and outside Kabul and that too within the confines of the green zone.
The mess has crept into the neighboring countries, economies are dwindling and the bottom line is the whole world is sick of the American policies in this war, even the West.
Americans who have been shaded by their administrations from the rest of the world is now waking up to the bitter realities of the world events as they are affecting them as well. Robert Fisk pointed out to a very important element in the handling of this war...Americans are more concerned about the presentation of the war than its outcome.
He submitted evidence through various letters written by the marines serving in Iraq that Americans do not understand the complexities of the region, its culture and governance which are dependent on each other. The greatest fear of the marines were that the risks and sacrifices of the soldiers will go in vain in the eyes of the Iraqis whom they have come to liberate. This was at time frustrating and depressing for the soldiers.
I am sure U.S administration must be losing plenty of sleep on this war as they are planning exit strategy, but their main focus be on the presentation of the exit. History must not count them amongst losers. This war started out with the speeches of liberation from a cruel tyrant, democracy for the people and modernization and uplifting of the masses. But under all this facade are harsh, undermining, disabling and unconnected policies. USSR and Britain lost in Afghanistan, lessons should be learned from them. There is only one way to win this war...and it is to win the hearts and minds of the people, understand their geography, and accept their culture, adopt it and respect it....
Until and unless Honesty becomes the best policy, their will be no end to this war. Regardless of how successful our presentation is for the world as the liberators and pioneers of democracy, till the time we synchronize our policies with our presentation, and sincerely communicate with each other, on the bases of truth, trust and honesty, we can not win people over. And this war may very well become the Khadi dress for the Americans.
And not matter how you present it Khadi will always be Khadi and will not be the fabric of a king's robe.

Pres. Barack Obama wins the Nobel Peace Prize.

Hooray, and many Congrats to the President Obama. There are many people world wide who are stunned and surprised at the nomination of the president. But let me assure you, President Obama has actually changed the Image of United States from and aggressive and angry nation to a friendly, understanding one..thanks to the tiring efforts of this President.
The world that gathered around United States in sympathy and genuine concern was so taken aback by the actions of the Bush Administration that all the sentiments of sympathy were lost and taken over by fear. United States had become an angry, out of control giant that the world was afraid of and unhappy with.
The mere election of Barack Obama was a beacon of hope for the world. Not only that, the way President Obama opened dialogues with the Muslim countries around the world, recognizing their socio-economic problems and acknowledging their utmost help in combating terrorism softened the image of United State as an ally in this war rather than a bully.
President Obama has initiated step towards the uplifting of the people of many underdeveloped countries. His efforts to diffuse the tension between Iran and United State is commendable. President Obama understands the realities of life and its crushing pressure on the people of underdeveloped nations. He understands that different cultures have their influence on its people and therefore, should be dealt with patience and respect. He acknowledges that an ally should always be treated as an equal rather than be commanded or pushed around.
President Obama has tremendous influence in bringing the world together at one platform. He has definitely created a new more positive climate in International politics and his efforts in pushing non proliferation of the nuclear weapons is applauded.
The Muslims of the world wish him great success in his term and look forward to friendly ties with the Muslim countries.

President Clinton got the release.

President Clinton's success in North Korea says a lot about diplomacy. I have been an avid believer that war is not the solution to problems our world is facing. If we engage the right tools of diplomacy, no mission is impossible.
Laura Ling and Euna Lee returned to USA after their four month ordeal in North Korea. Both the journalists had been sentenced to serve in a hard labor camp for twelve years, for entering the country illegally. The two journalists were covering for Al Gore's television program on Current TV.
American media has played a huge role in potraying the North Korean head of the state as a Monster, whereas, Pres. Clinton has shown that their is some common decency in every human being, and their status as a dictator or elected member does not influence their decisons.
This diplomatic effort has shed some light on the American engagement in Iraq. We could have been successful in a fast, speedy and inexpensive way a long time ago, with our world image intact if we had chosen to go the diplomatic route.
Let this be a beacon of hope for the world and learning oppurtunity for the American head of the states for the future.
As for our media...cheer people on towards peace rather than making war. We need to go an extra mile to find positives in every situations, and good in everyone...
Even in our enemies.

Preserve Your language, Culture, Food and Dresses

Good things about globalization is that information is accessible. Research, technology, information, knowledge, man power heck even the match making services around the globe...But I thing this globalization is destroying our heritage and cultures too.
Today people all over the world are wearing jeans and shirts, speaking English verses their own language and eating western foods.
Before people used to go to places across the globe and come back with stories about exotic food, cultures, heritage, people...It is annoying to see red yellow and greens of the east being replaced by the dull black, brown, white and grays of the west...Once a friend of my mine commented on my dress choice, she said, we are blessed with color in our skin and all the colors of the rainbow looks amazingly good on us then why do we choose to wear black brown and gray, which don't suit our complexion?
Our food is hot and spicy, full of flavor but we are going for bland, tasteless food with cheese in it...knowing it is not good for our health.
You go anywhere in the east and you will find people wearing the same shoes and clothes as the people of the west...whatever happened to the diversity...
In the end we will become like Jamaicans and Trinidadian...Indians who speak English, follow English culture but look Indians and know their culture only in Hindi movies.
Think! In the next two generations, we will have no stories to share with our grand children about our travel to exotic land, experiencing new and interesting cultures, and tantalizing our tongues with exotic food and languages.

Stuff we have.

For years now I had been planning to participate in the neighborhood garage sale. Yesterday, I went in the basement to do the annual cleanup. Guess what I found. All the things that my child will need to start on her own are right there in the basement. A set of canisters for her to keep tea, sugar and cookies in. Set of bathroom accessories; bed side lamps, floor lamp, nightstand, writing table a spare bed frame with the headboard and a lot more...
I know clutter is bad, hoarding is wrong, but in my case--it seems like things are going to work out just fine and we will be saving a lot of money. Money that can be used for other more important things.
As I was cleaning up the basement, I was actually preparing myself to accept the fact that children grow up and they move on. I was feeling at peace with myself and enjoying getting things together.
People say soon I will be going through the empty nest syndrome...I think not, if only I plan wisely to engage myself in community activities to keep my self beneficial to others.
Well I have a few years to go before my nest will be completely empty, until then I am holding on to the fort.

I'm Back.

After a long time out, I am back...It was a busy time out. Apartment hunting is not an easy matter by any means. So much to look for, safe community, location, easy transportation to and from the apartment. But the most important thing is getting to school on time.
Having done all that, renting a place, yet I found to my greatest surprise is that I am not ready for my child to move on in life. With each passing day I am getting anxious. How is my child going to live on her own, how is she going to manage on her own, how will she cook, clean and study all at the same time? Is she capable?
Then many of my friends encourage me to have faith in her abilities, that she is grown up and can very well manage on her own....Can she? I find myself asking that every day.
Regardless, I like it or not...there comes a time when parents have to let their young ones go. I can not hold on to her forever, it is time. I had been preparing her for this day all her life...now I can not hold her back. She has worked very hard for this day; It is time for her to realize her dreams....
I will always pray for her and wish her all the luck and success in this world and hereafter.
May all her hard work and sacrifices bring her happiness and peace.
Ameen.

O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female and made you into nations and tribes that ye may know each other(not that ye may despise each other). Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things).
49:13 Al-Quran.

Important point to be noted that in this passage from Quran, Allah announces that the most honored amongst the mankind is the person who is righteous one and not a Muslim or a Christian, or a Jew. Now, who may be the righteous one...

1. And spend of your substance in the cause of Allah and make not your own hands contribute to your destruction but do good; for Allah loveth those who do good.
2:195 Al-Quran

2. Those who spend (freely) whether in prosperity or in adversity; who restrain anger and pardon (all) men; for Allah loves those who do good.
3:134 Al-Quran

3. But because of their (children of israel) breach of their Covenant We curse them and made their hearts grow hard: they change the words from their(right) places and forget a good part of the message that was sent them nor wilt thou cease to find them barring a few ever bent on (new) deceits: but forgive them and overlook (their misdeeds): for Allah loveth those who are kind.
5:13 Al-Quran

4. Allah forbids you not with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes form dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just.
60:8 Al-Quran

5. (But the treaties) are not dissolved with those pagans with whom Ye have entered into alliance and who have not subsequently fail you in aught or aided anyone against you. So fulfill your engagements with them to the end of their term: for Allah loveth the righteous.
9:4 Al-Quran

These are a few litmus test for a righteous person, man or woman. When the Taliban denounced democracy, rights of the non-believers and believers alike, become unkind towards fellow human beings and impose cruel and unjust governance and above all break all the promises they had committed to with the government only ten days ago; they clearly stray away from the path of righteousness and hence loose all authority to impose Islamic law, as they are clearly in violation of the said law themselves.
Islam in its entirety establishes a just, tolerant society that provides equal opportunities to all its members of the community. Their is no discourse on the subject of whose Islam is right, mine or yours. IT IS THE MOST PEACEFUL OPTION OF CO-EXISTENCE FOR BELIEVERS AND NON-BELIEVERS ALIKE AND NOBODY HAS THE RIGHT TO HIJACK ISLAM.

Gone with the wind.

Spring is such a beautiful season, life comes back to earth, every thing around us is reborn or rejuvenated...new green leaves, little baby squirrels scurrying around the garden, cool fresh breeze, makes you want to smile.
Swat--a beautiful valley surrounded by lush green mountains, such calm and tranquility that brings peace to your soul, yet the ferocious flow of the Swat river cutting through the heart of Swat Valley makes you fall in love with nature and drowns you in its captivating beauty.
A valley full of fruits, vegetable and newly wed couples on their honeymoon. Yes, it was my honey moon in Swat that I first fell in love with this beautiful valley. The people are simple and hospitable while the roads are treacherous--winding dangerously around the mountains to reach the resort.
I have not seen fruits the like I saw in Swat. We stayed in Swat Serena, in its garden were trees laden with yellow-red pear, so sweet, so syrupy and ripe that they would melt in our mouth, the juice actually dripped on our shirts with every bite. I have never again tasted such delicious pears in my life. We went to Lahore, Islamabad, Murree, Abbottabad and Swat on our honeymoon. Every place seemed beautiful and captivating to us, but none like Swat. This is the valley where so many people find love.
My heart goes out to the people of Swat and it is impossible to imagine the voices of hatred and sounds gunfire in that valley of peace and love. I can understand how these simple people of Swat have been tricked by Talibans into such chaos. Talibans have not only stolen opportunities from their children to education but have brought Swat valley to financial and tourist meltdown. The livelihood of the people of Swat depends on fruits, which is exported all over the world and tourism which brings people from all across the world to enjoy the natural beauty of Swat and purchase handicrafts made by the locals.
In Quran, Allah says that it is mandatory for a Muslim to educate themselves. Nowhere does He says, Muslim men and not Muslim women, therefore making it compulsory for Muslim men and women to educate themselves. When Rasullallah, Mohammad p.b.u.h commanded Muslims to seek knowledge even if they had to go China to acquire it. Rasullallah didn't mean Islamic education, he meant knowledge, worldly knowledge, because a learned man is logical and capable of spreading love and peace.
Talibans who are trying to hijack Islam and present a picture of a cruel, harsh and inhumane Islam must be defeated by every faction of society.
Islam is a deen of peace, brotherhood, charity and discipline. In Quran Allah says," Do not creat unrest on my Earth."
It preaches the necessity of living in harmony with people of different faiths, cultures and tribes. A true Muslim is tolerant, loving and caring.

Deen. vs. Religion.

Today at a local meeting with some intelligent young mothers on the topic of raising children in USA, I stumbled upon a grate confusion...Islam as a religion. It is interesting how media has finally brainwashed us in accepting Islam as a religion. Nowhere in Quran does Allah calls Islam a religion, He has always announced it as Deen. The distinction is simple. Religion in a name of worships and rituals, whereas, a Deen is a way of life.
If you study Islam, you will find that Allah is teaching us manners or dictating codes of conduct to live peacefully and harmoniously in a society with people of all faiths, cultures and religions. Giving back to the community through Zakat, Sadaqat and Khairats--are all names of charity, is strongly emphasized. Simple smile is considered charity, visiting the sick, feeding the poor and hungry, fostering the orphans, rehabilitating the drunkards and taking in the disabled or challenged persons is a compulsory duty of the society and a great virtue. Islam teaches us selflessness, charity, and compassion along with consideration for the less fortunate amongst us.
Everyone is blessed with some kind of power over others, some with money, others with good health or fine children. Our Deen teaches us to utilize our skills to contribute and spread Islam through our actions. We all depend on one another to exists peacefully in this world.

Something that caught my attention.

Muslim woman's appointment as Obama advisor draws cautious optimism Los Angeles Times
Analyst and author Dalia Mogahed will advise Obama on problems Muslims face in the U.S.

Dalia Mogahed, a veiled Egyptian American, will advise President Obama on prejudices and problems faced by Muslims. Many Arabs hope it's a step toward reversing stereotyping.

By Noha El-Hennawy
April 22, 2009

Reporting from Cairo -- Egyptians are cautiously rejoicing over the recent appointment of a veiled Egyptian American Muslim woman as an advisor to President Obama.

Dalia Mogahed, senior analyst and executive director of the Gallup Center for Muslim Studies, was appointed this month to Obama's Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships.
-Judge to review records of FBI inquiries into Muslim groups
-Groups encourage Obama administration to hire more Muslim Americans
Arabs are closely watching for signs that the new leadership in Washington is making efforts to improve relations with Islam, which many Muslims believe were severely damaged during the eight years of the Bush administration. The selection of Mogahed is viewed by many in the Middle East as a step by Obama to move beyond the stereotypes and prejudices that Muslims believe they have encountered since the attacks Sept. 11, 2001.

"Dalia Mogahed is the best example of a successful Muslim woman. She proves that the Muslim should be successful in all fields, at least in [her] area of specialization," a commentator wrote on the website of the independent daily Al Masry al Youm.

The Egyptian-born Mogahed moved with her family to the United States almost 30 years ago. Recently, she co-wrote the book "Who Speaks for Islam?" with John Esposito, an American political science professor who has been criticized by some as an Islamic apologist. Mogahed and Esposito published an opinion piece this month in The Times on American ignorance of Islam and the Muslim world.

"My work focuses on studying Muslims, the way they think and their views," Mogahed was quoted as saying on the website of the Saudi-owned Al Arabiya satellite news channel. "Then I should tell the president about their problems and needs, especially that lately Muslims have been perceived as a source of problems and as incapable of taking part in solving international problems and that they should work on themselves. Now we want to say that Muslims are capable of providing solutions."

Yet, Mogahed's declaration that her loyalty goes first to the United States , published Monday in an interview with Al Masry al Youm, disappointed some people.

"I wish your loyalty was to your Islam first, Egypt second and your Arabism third and then to anything else," wrote a reader identifying himself as the Tiger of Arabs. "I am afraid that they might make a fool out of you and use you as a cover for policies that don't serve Egypt and the Arab and Muslim world."

El-Hennawy is in The Times' Cairo Bureau.

Trip to the East Coast.

Rain and cold followed me to the East coast but later on it became so pleasant and sunny that it became hard for me to leave. But really, when the interviews were done and the fun time was over, I secretly wished to go home. I began missing my family. All in all it was a very good trip. My daughter and I went through the medical school tours together, made some friends, saw interesting patients and above all got acquainted with the relatives and their children.
We stayed up into the wee hours of the night, sang songs and laughed until our voices went hoarse. It was just like going home. We loved every moment of it. The best part is the love for each other, the unity in our family, kindness and soft corners in their hearts.
Family is such a blessing. Parents, siblings, grandparents, the extended family members, and the cherry on the top..cousins. I saw my daughter bloom among them, they loved her and she loved them back. The aunts and uncles hung at her every word, praised her when she sang and prayed for her success in the interviews. She made new friends in her cousins and enjoyed every moment with them.
I also noticed one very important relationship--between grandparents and their toddler grand children. At a time when a person becomes old, week, fragile, stubborn, dependent with a bad breath and not so good looking; it is always these toddlers who find them strong, attractive, funny, communicative, attentive and dependable. In Urdu there is a proverb that a child and an old person are alike...so true, they are and they love each other. They find love, comfort and solace in one another. I love both faces of our childhood, the young and old.
Cold front met me in Wisconsin on our return but a warm welcome from my family made it comfortable. Life is beautiful with its ups and downs...
Live it, Loving it.

Such an Honor.

By God when I read my email today at the Face book and my nephew,Arsalan, whom by the way I had last seen when he was maybe two years old, said that he would rather call me a friend and a role model than an aunt, I was speechless. All that I could say was, "Wow". So many hours later I am still feeling overwhelmed with these emotions that I can not put into words. He is an extremely smart and intelligent young fellow, who is gifted with the art of writing, rational and critical thinking. Like him I found many of my nieces and nephews on Face book that I didn't know ever existed. We share our thoughts, concerns and so many conversations with each other.
Some of my friends, cousins, and relatives live in United States while others are scattered all across the globe. I enjoy learning from these young fellows, share and absorb their intelligent thoughts; it amazes me that they are all such productive, and vibrant elements of the society. But it is their patriotism which shines through them in all their attempts to do something positive for their country that makes me really proud of them.
Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, always praised the youth and encouraged them to come forward and take the reigns of the country in their hands, he called them the nation builders....
Today I am humbled and honored to be called a friend and a role model of one such brilliant nation builder.
Arsalan thank you so much for bestowing me this honor, I now have a huge responsibility on my shoulders to live up to.
God Bless you and may you become a role model for someone.

Mr. President, Do not disappoint Muslims, Please!

President Obama, it was disappointing to know that Israel is being supplied with smart weapons to desecrate the Palestinians. Mr. President, you are the beacon of hope for all the people of the world and we all look up to you for peaceful and acceptable resolution of Palestine--A homeland for the Palestinians. If you fail, this issue will be shoved under the rug again and the blood bath in the Middle East will continue. You owe it to the children in Gaza and West Bank. You owe it to us. You owe it to the people of the world.

An open secret. How America lost trust in the world.

No wonder so many nations blame America for such events in their countries. Only the American people are kept in dark, whereas, the places where such crimes are committed, people of those countries shout out in protests over the violent intervention and total disregard of their judicial and intelligent system.

Cooperation among neighbours.

Islam has exerted so much emphasis on good relations with our neighbors, and there is a very solid reason for that. Good neighborly relations make for a beautiful and peaceful community.
Just this morning I was listening to a lecture at UW-Madison about Relations of United States with European Nations. The lecturer has designed a road map of US economic and political power interlinked with the good neighbor policy with European countries. He outlined the four P's that are necessary to achieve this goal of reaching ultimate power. The four P's are: Partnership, Prosperity, Prudence and Power. After the WWII, United States worked in Partnership with its European allies to build its Infra-structure, first with America and then in Europe. They collaborated in building highways, Industries and universities to help recover the loss in the war in Germany, UK and other countries in the European nations. Also they created NATO, which helped the United States and the Europeans to safe guard each others geo-political interests. This sharing of wealth, technology and intelligence laid the foundation of prosperity in 1945 that enabled the Europeans and the Americans to reap the benefits of from 1970 to-date. Co-operations and collaborations rendered prudence and trust in the hearts of the people of the two continents and lead them to achieve their goals of becoming the most powerful and economically balanced nations in the world.
Moral of the story....We should pay heed to the words of our prophet Mohammad (p.b.u.h), and force ourselves to be patient, tolerant and kind towards our neighbors. We need to deal with our issues, try to find an amicable resolutions to our conflicts, even if it means to sometimes sign treaties from a point of weakness. But in any case, we should be a trust worthy and honest neighbor and we need to apply all means to improve our image and build trust in the hearts of our neighbors. We need to work sincerely to protect, provide and improve each others homelands. Their friends should be our friend, and our enemy should be their enemy too. For this we must first open our minds, then our hearts and eventually our homes to each other. Partnership is the only way to become prosperous and prudent and eventually powerful.
We are as strong as our neighbors. When all the fingers come together they become a fist. Fist is power.

So Much Going on......

So much going on in such a short time...In fact, I do not know where to begin. First the good news.
Hurray to the Pakistanis for restoring the judicial system in a very peaceful and democratic fashion. Made all of us very proud. Cheers to the judicial system in the united states for helping Defendant Tammi Lafave Change her plea to Guilty to the charge of Felony Murder of Haroon Khan, and will be sentenced in May 2009.
Good news for the Muslim students all over USA and the world over for striving towards and achieving their goals. Especially the girls in my community. Maria Din for getting into the medical School and Faiza Khan for receiving her first interview at the Medical school.
Now the bad news. It is sad though that we are not seeing our young men as ambitiously motivated and academically excelling as our girls. They are in no way less bright or intelligent than girls, but maybe they are too much into party right now. This leaves great opportunities for the girls to grab and climb up the social,intellectual and financial ladder. God speed to the girls. But all this is going to come and bite the boys in the back later on. They will ultimately lag behind in all aspects of life which will in the end bring them down emotionally too. They should remember regardless of their social or cultural upbringing it is the man's job to be the bread winner. Women are becoming more independent and since men are loosing their position in life to women more rapidly, as a doing of their own, the situation is challenging all the carefully constructed institutions of society. Women now have a voice in the world. Good, very much so, bad..to some extend. There are two sides to every picture. When a woman holds a job, she is aggressive, trying to prove her worth. She has a voice at home, when she earns more or equal to her husband, she challenges and in some cases imbalances the hierarchy of the order. You may have a financially better home, yet not so emotionally. Since the taste of power is quite new to women, in general, it will take a few generations for us to overcome and restore balance. But if our men loose their place in society once, remember it will be gone for ever. It is always easy to fall in a pit, but very hard to climb up. It took women more than a millennium to reach the brim of the well, I don't know if men have that will power or the guts to do it.
....Behind every successful man is a woman....(she is pushing him ahead).
Q. What happens when a woman is ahead of a man....?

Stop this madness, there are more important issues at heart.

What is going on in Pakistan is beyond me. Shouldn't the Sharif Brothers have appealed in the higher court instead of taking the people out on the streets.
Why is it that our politicians talk to no end of the supremacy of the law and the judicial system but their actions contradict their speech. WHY? Don't they believe in the fairness of the same judicial system they always uphold as supreme. Why do they want the people of Pakistan to decide on the streets? Do they not understand these rallies, protests and marches disrupt not only the daily activities of the citizens of their country, in fact, the country looses billions of dollars in revenue when the market is shut down, the schools are closed and the daily life is affected.
I have never seen our politicians take a such a strong stand on issues of education, health, research and productivity of the country. The school system in Pakistan is dilapidated, the curriculum is outdated and the infra structure is corrupt and rotten to the core. Our children are reading thirty year old course material, which has been done with in all other progressive countries a long time ago.
Health system is no better than our education system, it is unfair, unjust and inconsiderate. Lives are lost every minute of the day due to inattentiveness of the doctors or post operative care. God forbid, if you don't come from an influential family or you don't have a doctor in your family, you will be left at the mercy of the physicians who wouldn't care if you live or die.
Coming on to research. It is the backbone of every developing country. It is the reason, why the developed countries can become interested in our education system. Pakistanis have always proved themselves in the field of science everywhere in the world. They are regarded and respected for their academic excellence and research achievement all across the world. Now that it has become next to impossible for our youth to sail to new lands in search of knowledge and prosperity, the Government of Pakistan should grab this golden opportunity. They should encourage our universities to develop a strong research program, provide funds to renovate their laboratories and help advertise and publish the scientific work in international journals to bring world focus and grants into Pakistan.
This is a tall order, I know, but it is not impossible. We have to stand up as a nation and demand latest education for our children. Parents need to be more involved, demanding, inquiring and participating in the school system. Same with health system and Inshallah in a few years we shall see the results of our efforts.
These are different times. Virtual schools and universities are becoming a reality. Our universities and schools should collaborate with the education institutions across the global village via internet. American and European institutes should be contacted to form a sister plan, which will enable our classrooms to interact, exchange and learn new ideas from each other. This shall form a harmony among the students but will induce understanding and respect for different cultures.
In the end a note for our politicians, KHUDA kay liyae, stop playing with the country. Be honest and sincere. Let this government complete its term and prepare for the next election. You have a great opportunity to write history, by upholding the law, behaving as civilized and educated political party and gaining confidence of the nation by serving them better. Let democracy take roots.

What a heartache.

It took me a day to finally find words to express myself. The terrorist attack on the bus of Sri Lankan Cricket team just a mile from the Qaddafi Stadium, Lahore, was horrific. Who are these people, I wonder. How dare they hijack a nation, a country, kill its policemen, injure its guests and rob them off pleasure of cricket. It is a sad day in Pakistan. Every Pakistani is praying for the speedy recovery of the injured cricketers.
This horrific act is not an isolated case anymore. All the muslim countries are now suffering from cases like these everyday. People are not safe anywhere, when they leave homes for work or school or even to shopping, it is always at the back of their minds that they may never return home. Suicide bombing, snipper firing, armed robbery, kidnapping for ransom, and car bombs have become a norm in our countries.
I have always believed that radical elements in the society can only be neutralized by promoting awareness of civic duties, patriotism, nationalism and above all humanitarianism.
Our religion, Islam, the most beautiful religion in the world, a religion of love, peace and brotherhood. A religion that places mankind above God. A religion that advocates and educate believers and non-believers alike to love and protect thy neighbors; killing is forbidden, taking one life is equivalent of killing the entire human race; to be quiet rather than speak a word of evil, lest it may hurt someones feelings; to distribute all our surplus wealth and food amongst strangers; to protect and propagate all creations of God; to be kind and just to all regardless of their religious beliefs, cast, creed, color or nationality. Allah said,"Pious among you is the one who is the most humble" and Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said," if you stay angry with your brother for more than three days than you are not one of us", which means you are not a Muslim.
These twelve men with back backs and armed with weapons and satellite phone are not Muslims, and they are definitely not Pakistanis because Pakistanis are extremely hospitable people, they lay down their lives to protect their guests.
Now the time has come that the civil society should rise up against these elements among us. Because there is no doubt that these criminals must be staying somewhere among us, eating and drinking with us, hiring vehicles and loading them up with weapons and some one some where is always aware of their suspicious movements and activities. If we are sincere with ourselves, sincere with our children and the next generations and our countries then it is our responsibility to inform the law enforcement authorities of such activities. It is now the duty of an average citizen, to protect its country, because it is impossible for our police and armed forces to curb these elements without the help of its citizens. We have to put our differences aside and work together to rid our homes of this menace.

A group of Muslim women got together to discuss My father's dream by Pres.Obama at a local book store. The interesting thing is that a few christian women joined in the discussion. I noticed that Pres.Obama has revived new life in women. They admire and respect the first family a lot, but especially how Obama treats Michell and their daughters. Despite coming from a broken family, he credits his mother for instilling family first values along with love and kindness towards humanity in general. The ladies had a unanimous agreement that Obama is the ultimate American; all Americans are immigrants and have shared the experiences in their new homeland which their future generations have forgotten but Obama is an American who has the wealth of immigrant experiences first hand. He saw that he was black yet not black, he was both Muslim and christian, an American yet an immigrant. These cultural, physical, and religious variations connects him to so many Americans who are tied up in two cultures and religions. Therefore, he is one of us.

Another interesting topic that come up in the discussion was the state of the union address. It seems that everybody is confused about the distribution of the stimulus package #2. Everyone understands that the President has to take some very bold measures to save the country from a complete break down, but the president in his address, it seems, touched bases on health care, green renewable energy, education plan, taxes and the creation of jobs and yet did not give a road map as to how is he going to achieve all that. I would like to know if there is blue print to all these plans, how will all this create new jobs immediately and will the people who have been laid off be qualified to take up these jobs? At what level would we be able to measure these projects as successful? Is there a deadline to achieve, say,20% success in any project? I believe I have the right to know, because this is my money the government is giving stimulus from?

This administration should be transparent in its decision, and the nation should be taken into confidence. We should get out of the mind frame of the Bush administration where the Americans were to believe every misinformation of the Newspeak.

Dr. S. M. Koreshi Speaks out on Talibans and Islam.

Prophet Mohammad was meditating when Angel Gabriel came to him and said, "Iqra" meaning READ.

Surah Al-Alaq

IN THE NAME OF GOD, THE MOST GRACIOUS, THE DISPENSER OF GRACE

READ in the name of thy Sustainer, who has created –

created man out of a germ-cell!

Read - for thy Sustainer is the Most Bountiful One

who has taught [man] the use of the pen –

taught man what he did not know!

Nay, verily, man becomes grossly overweening

whenever he believes himself to be self-sufficient:

for, behold, unto thy Sustainer all must return.

HAST THOU ever considered him who tries to prevent

a servant [of God] from praying?

Hast thou considered whether he is on the right way,

or is concerned with God-consciousness?

Hast thou considered whether he may [not] be giving the lie to the truth and turning his back [upon it]?

Does he, then, not know that God sees [all]?

Nay, if he desist not, We shall most surely drag him down upon his forehead –

the lying, rebellious forehead! –

and then let him summon [to his aid] the counsels of his own [spurious] wisdom,

[the while] We shall summon the forces of heavenly chastisement!

Nay, pay thou no heed to him, but prostrate thyself [before God] and draw close [unto Him]!
Al-Quran.


Dr.S.M.Koreshi is former diplomat of Pakistan, who is a columnist in an English Newspaper daily, Pakistan Observer. Below is his article "Please this is not Islam." which was published in the Pakistan Observer on 28th Jan, 2009.

Please this is not Islam.

When we the generation which made Pakistan, the students in their teens who formed the spear head of the Pakistan Movement, chanting on the roads, ley ke rahingey Pakistan, Bat ke rahey ga Hindustan, - take we will our Pakistan, make we will our Pakistan- we had unshakable confidence in ourselves, sure of the place we wanted to give to our dreamland in the world comity of nations, proud, strong, self reliant, hoping that Pakistan will write a new history of glory of Muslims. As Iqbal said when the soul of falcon is awaken in the youth, they see their destiny as high as sky. We did wonders in making a new state out of almost zero, the towns of Karachi, Lahore, Pindi were small, no roads, no industry, no electricity worth the name, only one university in Lahore, no schools, etc, no this, no that thing- go on counting of no this thing and no that thing. We made it a country, we wanted to be competitive with the Hindus, the West, the advanced countries of the world. We did well initially. We were then united. Now there are very few common values among all sections of society. There are no common leaders. Common man is leaderless, at national level. .

Now it seems we are a lost people, no pride in our selves, do not know where we are going, no goals, dithering away, not sure of our tomorrow subservient living on IMF and foreign charity . There is utter confusion. Nation is divided. There are two classes, the extremists and the pliant puppets of foreign powers. Disunited on the goals, what we are what we want to be. Look at the killing spree the destruction of our Northern areas, the devastation of Swat- Swat is burning, northern areas are burning, lost people burning the cradles of learning, all in the name of Islam. Is it Islam? Every teaching of Islam is being disrespected. Islam says if you kill one innocent it is like killing the whole humanity. I will only take the most important matter of national concern today ; the move to deny education, modern education as well as Pakistani studies - education, schools education of boys and girls which is at the alter of sacrifice, and strangely in the name of Islam. I hang my head in pain and in shame. I might explain that I have studied both Arabic language and Quran and Hadith from third class primary to undergraduate classes. I have some knowledge of the subject I am writing on and not a foreign oriented person in culture or knowledge It happens that I was educated in Islamic schools and institutions, learned Arabic language from third elementary class, it was compulsory with teaching of the Holy Quran and Hadith right from the third elementary in Jamia Millia Islamia . I went to Aligarh University, that citadel of Islamic modernism and custodian of Muslim values and culture. There teaching of Islamic fiqh , the book of Quduri, was compulsory and passing examination in Islamic subjects was essential for promotion to the next class. . They judged us leniently in fiqh because they merely wanted us to know what Islamic values and traditions were and not to let these subjects stand in our way for higher learning of science and arts, literature and medicine, etc. So when I say what is happening in Swat and Northern areas it is not Islam I have some idea of Islamic injunctions and ahadith sharif and the Holy Quran, and Islamic history, culture and traditions. In our part of the world female education was not unknown. My mother, who was a daughter of an orthodox father, a Sufi, went to St John’s Girls Student in Agra in the early twentieth century like my father went to Oxford and Lincoln’s Inn but knew Arabic and Persian like he knew English . Girls of my family were well educated, to be a B A in those days was nothing strange. My sister who died at 80 or so two years ago was an M A Economics and a student of Raana Liaquat Ali Khan who was professor of economics at Inder Prastha Girls College Delhi before marrying Liaquat- the first Prime minister. Girls of my family observed Islamic injunctions despite all this modern education.

Imagine, in Aligarh University the Ahadis, sayings of the Holy Prophet exhorting Muslims to seek knowledge were engraved on prominent places in the university “ Seek knowledge even if it be in China”, “Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave” and “Acquiring knowledge is compulsory for every Muslim man and Muslim Woman” ( muslimin and Muslimatin) . Imagine what these ahadiths sharif told the Muslims. First acquiring knowledge was compulsory for both, man and woman, not optional, not that it is useful if Muslims men and women acquire knowledge but “farizatun” or no way you could ignore it. It need be reminded that the first Ayat of Quran, Al Alaq the very first word of the ayat revealed on the Holy Prophet SAWS begins with Divine Order “ Read” Iqra, In the name of Allah who created you from a blood clot, taught by the pen, taught man what he did not know. The Holy Quran says “ Nun, and by the pen, and what they writ” Learning is enjoined by the Holy Quran on all Muslims.

Go to China if necessary to seek knowledge or for learning. It meant wide scope on acquiring wisdom from where ever it could be gathered, no prohibition since you would reject your self if it is un-Islamic and accept if it is not in conflict with Islam. Obviously China in the days of Holy Prophet SAWS would be from Saudi Arabia. May be to travel to China from Saudi Arabia must have been as difficult as today from Earth to moon. Seek knowledge , seek from childhood to old age , no closing the doors of learning and compulsory both for men and women. In the days of the Holy Prophet, SAWS, prisoners of war in battles with Muslims, could earn their liberty just by teaching ten Muslim elementary reading and writing. This was the value the Holy Prophet SAWS gave to education for Muslims.. It was his program of adult education for illiterate Muslims. Nor in early Islamic days education was denied to women. It is said that there were very learned women in early days of Islam in Arabia itself like Rabia Basri and quite a few others among whose pupils had been well known Muslim male scholars. In early Abbasid Caliphs Baghdad became a center of knowledge and under a Translation Bureau set up in that city the old Greek books were translated by experts knowing Greek and Siryani through whom the Greek wisdom was transferred to Europe. There are case in later history when the Roman Emperors sent envoys to Baghdad and Istanbul to get a copy of those books.

The Renaissance in Europe started through these books . In twelfth century it is said that in Paris and Padua universities Arabic was the medium of instruction. One need not go to Andalusia or Islamic Spain to talk of the various disciplines of knowledge, medicine, surgery, astronomy mathematics which were acquired by the west from there. The glory of a people is not just in conquests and use of sword but knowledge as well.

Now, if the Taleban are destroying the schools and destroying Girls schools and closing the doors of knowledge on female students are they obeying the Holy Prophet SAWS or defying his teachings.? Can a Muslim reject what the holy Prophet commanded the Muslims to do, not as optional but as compulsory duty? What reply they would be able to give to the Holy Prophet on the Day of Judgment. why they closed the doors of knowledge on Muslim women.? I read that about 40,000 students have been deprived of education in Swat as their schools have been destroyed by the Taleban . If someone destroys the schools or the center of teaching and learning how would the young Muslims both male and female learn knowledge. If the places from where education is imparted are destroyed it seems it would be an impediment in education. The injunction of the Holy prophet to acquire knowledge will be frustrated. A Muslim should create circumstances in which the injunctions of the Holy Prophet SAWS can be acted upon. Not make it impossible to comply with the Holy injunctions. To destroy the schools would be contrary to the Holy Prophet’s ( SAWS) instructions. In fact it would be disregarding the Holy Prophet’s (SAWS) instructions. Would it not be doing exactly opposite to what the Holy Prophet SAWS asked the Ummah to do. If they destroy the places of learning then how education can be impart3ed to the male and female students? The Muslims will become backward and by getting advanced the other peoples would make Muslims their slaves. Do we want to make us subservient?

I am inclined to think that these are not true Taleban or are they foreign elements who have infiltrated among the genuine Taleban.? It is surprising that no one in the responsible positions in the Governmnet has at all spoken on this subject drawing attention to these holy injunctions. In speaking of the Holy Prophet’s injunctions the leaders and the media should quote exactly the words of the Hadith in Arabic so they carry weight with the Taleban quoting the sorces of these Hadith and other religious injunctions. Much of our common man does not read news papers and much less English newspapers. Perhaps private TV channels should start a program on this subject which would take the message to the Taleban and the common man in Swat and Northern Areas. This program should be repeated to reach wide circle. It is surprising that Sherry Rahman whose elders founded Sindh Madrasatul Islam Karachi , as I understand, where my father was educated upto High School, has not quoted a single Hadith in support of educating female even those few I have mentioned above. .

There are many learned persons, scholars like Ghamdi, Dr Zaman, Mahmoud Ghazi who can help in putting across the message of the Holy Prophet SAWS in regard to female education. It is an elementary principle that one speaks the same language with a person whom one wants to convince which he understands. With Taleban quoting the Holy Quran and Hadith and Islamic authorities is necessary when convincing them about a certain view point. But the persons should carry conviction with them because of their standing in Islamic traditions.

Domestic Violence...something to ponder.
A well educated couple with four children, founder of an independent television station, Bridges TV, caught up in domestic violence resulting in murder. Rasullallah Mohammad (pbuh) said, Anger is forbidden in Islam. Forbidden, it is the same word used for the consumption of pork. Muslims around the world would make sure that pork will not contaminate their food, but some how when it comes to anger we put it in another catagory. Whenever a person lets anger take over their cognitive abilities they commit heinous crimes. Hazrat Ali said "strongest amongst you is the one who controls his anger". Muslims should follow the example of their beloved prohet Mohammad (pbuh)and keep a cool mind and maintain a happy home. We must also remember that in Islam it is the duty of both a man and a woman to make a happy home, but the duty falls heavily on the man's shoulder as he is given superiority over the woman, as a protector. Below is the open letter of the ISNA,Islamic Society of North America,to the muslim community...let us extend this responsibility of protection to our non-Muslim neighbors in our communities as well.

ISNA’s response to the murder of Aasiya (Zubair) Hassan & domestic violence
February 17, 2009 – 7:33 pm
Posted in Uncategorized
Tagged Aasiya Hassan, Bridges TV, domestic violence, ISNA
http://www.isna.net/articles/News/RESPONDING-TO-THE-KILLING-OF-AASIYA-HASSAN-AN-OPEN-LETTER-TO-THE-LEADERS-OF-AMERICAN-MUSLI.aspx

By Imam Mohamed Hagmagid Ali
Executive Director, ADAMS Center
Vice-President, The Islamic Society of North America

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) is saddened and shocked by the news of the loss of one of our respected sisters, Aasiya Hassan whose life was taken violently. To God we belong and to Him we return (Qur’an 2:156). We pray that she find peace in God’s infinite Mercy, and our prayers and sympathies are with sister Aasiya’s family. Our prayers are also with the Muslim community of Buffalo who have been devastated by the loss of their beloved sister and the shocking nature of this incident.

This is a wake up call to all of us, that violence against women is real and can not be ignored. It must be addressed collectively by every member of our community. Several times each day in America, a woman is abused or assaulted. Domestic violence is a behavior that knows no boundaries of religion, race, ethnicity, or social status. Domestic violence occurs in every community. The Muslim community is not exempt from this issue. We, the Muslim community, need to take a strong stand against domestic violence. Unfortunately, some of us ignore such problems in our community, wanting to think that it does not occur among Muslims or we downgrade its seriousness.

I call upon my fellow imams and community leaders to never second-guess a woman who comes to us indicating that she feels her life to be in danger. We should provide support and help to protect the victims of domestic violence by providing for them a safe place and inform them of their rights as well as refer them to social service providers in our areas.

Marriage is a relationship that should be based on love, mutual respect and kindness. No one who experiences a marriage that is built on these principles would pretend that their life is in danger. We must respond to all complaints or reports of abuse as genuine and we must take appropriate and immediate action to ensure the victim’s safety, as well as the safety of any children that may be involved.

Women who seek divorce from their spouses because of physical abuse should get full support from the community and should not be viewed as someone who has brought shame to herself or her family. The shame is on the person who committed the act of violence or abuse. Our community needs to take a strong stand against abusive spouses. We should not make it easy for people who are known to abuse to remarry if they have already victimized someone. We should support people who work against domestic violence in our community, whether they are educators, social service providers, community leaders, or other professionals.

Our community needs to take strong stand against abusive spouses and we should not make it easy for them to remarry if they chose a path of abusive behavior. We should support people who work against domestic violence in our community, whether they are educators or social service providers. As Allah says in the Qur’an: “O ye who believe! Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor: for Allah can best protect both. Follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you swerve, and if you distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do” (4:136).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) never hit a women or child in his life. The purpose of marriage is to bring peace and tranquility between two people, not fear, intimidation, belittling, controlling, or demonizing. Allah the All-Mighty says in the Qur’an: “Among His signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquility with them and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are signs for those who reflect” (30:21),

We must make it a priority to teach our young men in the community what it means to be a good husband and what the role the husband has as a protector of his family. The husband is not one who terrorizes or does harm and jeopardizes the safety of his family. At the same time, we must teach our young women not to accept abuse in any way, and to come forward if abuse occurs in the marriage. They must feel that they are able to inform those who are in authority and feel comfortable confiding in the imams and social workers of our communities.

Community and family members should support a woman in her decision to leave a home where her life is threatened and provide shelter and safety for her. No imam, mosque leader or social worker should suggest that she return to such a relationship and to be patient if she feels the relationship is abusive. Rather they should help and empower her to stand up for her rights and to be able to make the decision of protecting herself against her abuser without feeling she has done something wrong, regardless of the status of the abuser in the community.

A man’s position in the community should not affect the imam’s decision to help a woman in need. Many disasters that take place in our community could have been prevented if those being abused were heard. Domestic violence is not a private matter. Any one who abuses their spouse should know that their business becomes the business of the community and it is our responsibility to do something about it. She needs to tell someone and seek advice and protection.

Community leaders should also be aware that those who isolate their spouses are more likely to also be physically abusive, as isolation is in its own way a form of abuse. Some of the abusers use the abuse itself to silence the women, by telling her “If you tell people I abused you, think how people will see you, a well-known person being abused. You should keep it private.”

Therefore, to our sisters, we say: your honor is to live a dignified life, not to put on the face that others want to see. The way that we measure the best people among us in the community is to see how they treat their families. It is not about how much money one makes, or how much involvement they have in the community, or the name they make for themselves. Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) said, “The best among you are those who are best to their families.”

It was a comfort for me to see a group of imams in our local community, as well as in the MANA conference signing a declaration promising to eradicate domestic violence in our community. Healthy marriages should be part of a curriculum within our youth programs, MSA conferences, and seminars as well as part of our adult programs in our masajid and in our khutbahs.

The Islamic Society of North America has done many training workshops for imams on combating domestic violence, as has the Islamic Social Service Associate and Peaceful Families Project. Organizations, such as FAITH Social Services in Herndon, Virginia, serve survivors of domestic violence. All of these organizations can serve as resources for those who seek to know more about the issues of domestic violence.

Faith Trust Institute, one of the largest interfaith organizations, with Peaceful Families Project, has produced a DVD in which many scholars come together to address this issue. I call on my fellow imams and social workers to use this DVD for training others on the issues of domestic violence. (For information, go to the website: http://www.faithtrustinstitute.org/). For more information, or to access resources and materials about domestic violence, please visit www.peacefulfamilies.org.

In conclusion, Allah says in the Qur’an “O my son! Establish regular prayer, enjoin what is just, and forbid what is wrong; and bear with patient constancy whatever betide thee; for this is firmness (of purpose) in (the conduct of) affairs” (31:17). Let us pray that Allah will help us to stand for what is right and leave what is evil and to promote healthy marriages and peaceful family environments. Let us work together to prevent domestic violence and abuse and especially, violence against women.

United we stand.

Muslims all over the world should listen to this address Pres. Obama gave on Lincoln's 200 Birthday. We are facing the same economic and security challenges that America faces today. We are seeing the financial institutions in the same meltdown as the American institutions; America is fighting two war, they are outside its borders but we share the enemies. All muslims countries are fighting two war. One at its borders while the other within its borders. But Obama stresses that it is the unity as a nation and the strive to achieve the common goals for our country while striving for individual dream, can only guide us to meet and overcome all challenges. Muslim history is full of heros and heroins who have proven themselves that we can emerge victorious out of these adverse times.
This speech is for the American people but it speaks to all of us. We should have courage and patience to identify our goal, organize our thoughts, pick ourselves up, dust the clouds of hopelessness off us and rethink a plan of action to unite our people, guide our governments, educate ourselves of the pros and cons of our strategy and go full speed to achieve our goal with full trust in Allah to help us succeed.

Stimulus package # 2

When companies try to save themselves by downsizing itself, they layoff employees, which sets into motion a chain reaction of misfortunes. The laid off employees eventually falls back on their bill payments resulting in the banks and mortgage lending companies into acquiring bad loans. Now these lending organizations then turn to the government for capital to keep themselves afloat. An example of which we have already seen in stimulus package#1.
Now the laid off employees are forced to tap into their saving accounts, like 401K, retirement accounts; forcing the brokerage firms to withdraw funds and once again they will turn to uncle Sam for help--stimulus package#2-- promising to downsize further in hopes of saving themselves from total collapse.
Increased unemployment burdens the social system for public support in the form of public housing, public health, public safety, welfare and transport etc. a cyclic problem leading one into another.
I read an article today suggesting a kind of sane solution to all this problem. The proposed solution is that companies should stop downsizing and laying off its employees, rather they should reduce the salaries and benefits of the employees to achieve savings. When every one in the company suffers it becomes a bigger motivation for all to save the company.
No simple answers but hope that everyone will try for the benefit of the company. This ship must not capsize; it should remain afloat and all should be done so that it will regain its thrust and course towards higher seas.

Today Richard Holbrook met with the Pakistani administration to discuss the situation there. One thing very encouraging was duly noted.. the body language. Holbrook indicated that the world should understand the situation Pakistan is facing today. President Obama also spoke to the President of Pakistan and confirmed that his administration is willing to listen and review the policy of the previous eight years. The mutual trust and respect that President Obama had promised in his inaugural speech seems to be genuine.
I concur to the views of Pakistani foreign minister that there are two type of resistant force in the FATA region, the non-conciliatory and the conciliatory, and we should discriminate in our dealings with them. Not long ago in the times of Ayub Khan, Pakistan was an image of growth, prosperity and modernization. Today the face of Pakistan is completely distorted and smudged. However, 99% of Pakistani population is sincere and patriotic and it breaks their hearts to see an ailing Pakistan.
Talibanized, terrorized and backward Pakistan is not the dream of any Pakistani. They want to see their children compete and succeed on international level in academics, athletics, technology and innovation. Average Pakistani works hard to provide the best to their families, and they want to prosper and live a peaceful life today and in the future. A handful of people with their extremist ideologies and behaviors cannot and will not hijack Pakistan or hold it hostage to its crime. The people of Pakistan are not with them and announce jihad against such forces.

Got an email from the president...
Tell me what do you propose we should do?

Swaliha
The economic crisis is growing more serious every day, and the time for action has come.Last week, the House of Representatives passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which will jumpstart our economy and put more than 3 million people back to work.I hope to sign the recovery plan into law in the next few weeks. But I need your help to spread the word and build support.It's not enough for this bill to simply pass Congress. Americans need to know how it will affect their lives -- they need to know that help is on the way and that this administration is investing in economic growth and stability.Governor Tim Kaine has agreed to record a video outlining the recovery plan and answering questions about what it means for your community. You can submit your questions online and then invite your friends, family, and neighbors to watch the video with you at an Economic Recovery House Meeting.Join thousands of people across the country by hosting or attending an Economic Recovery House Meeting this weekend.The stakes are too high to allow partisan politics to get in the way.That's why I've consulted with Republicans as well as Democrats to put together a plan that will address the crisis we face.I've also taken steps to ensure an unprecedented level of transparency and accountability. Once it's passed, you will be able to see how every penny in this plan is being spent.You can help restore confidence in our economy by making sure your friends, family, and neighbors understand how the recovery plan will impact your community.Sign up to host or attend an Economic Recovery House Meeting and submit your question for the video now:http://my.barackobama.com/recoveryOur ability to come together as a nation in difficult times has never been more important.I know I can rely on your spirit and resolve as we lead our country to recovery.Thank you,President Barack ObamaP.S. -- If you can't host or attend an Economic Recovery House Meeting, you can still submit your questions for Governor Kaine and then share the video with your friends and family this weekend. Learn more here:http://my.barackobama.com/recovery

How does this play with the Muslim world. On one side President Obama offers his hand of friendship to the Muslim world; his first phone call was to Mahmood Abbas, the PLA president and assigns George Mitchell to work out a peace deal in the Middle East and Richard Holbrook as special US envoy to Pakistan. Where as, on the other hand, the very next day the American drone resume bombing in FATA, Pakistan, killing twenty civilians. The argument given is the allies in this war of terror will be treated with trust and respect. Now the Pakistani governement agrees that change of administration does not guarantee change in policy, but they find that change in the tactics is in order.
Sending drone to bomb inside a sovereign nation reflects badly not only on the government of Pakistan, in fact, it induce malice and mistrust in its people towards United States along with its own government. Pakistan is right when it demands that it should be given the time and power to work with the people of the trouble areas in curbing and eradicating terrorist pockets. Obama administration must not forget that such irresponsible acts of pre-emptive strike puts Pakistan in a precarious position. It is a very difficult time for Pakistan, who is paying a heavy price of being an ally. Pakistan has been doing every thing in its power to contain the problem to the best of its abilities, and it is not taken amicably to see a friend turning already a difficult situation into a bad one.
The smart move will be to take the government of Pakistan in full confidence and develop a successful strategy that will take the people and the government of Pakistan out of this quagmire of bloodshed, and misrey that is spreading rapidly to the other regions of Pakistan. Pakistan is a land of progressive minded and hard working people, it pains them more than any one to see radical elements terrorizing them into sujugation, by blowing up schools and hotels, spreading fear by tactics such as suicide bombing, acid throwing and abduction of children for ransom. These element are trying to rob Pakistan off its financial and social backbone. No one wants to see these radical element destroyed more than Pakistan itself. United States should work hand in hand with the Pakistani government to restore peace to the people of Pakistan.

I got these letters in my email inbox today...thought I should share them with you....look this website up and if your think it is worthy of your signature then sign the petition. Good luck.


Dear Friend,
Hope was a big part of my life during the election, and in the short time since the inauguration, I am seeing reasons to believe my hope was justified. The momentum that began on inauguration day won't last long, though. We have a window and we must take advantage of it, specifically to make real progress on peace in Gaza and Israel. We must continue to hope – and HOPE BIG. Please join me in asking President Obama to make good on his promise of hope. Add your name to mine on this open letter by Jewish Voice for Peace and Just Foreign Policy to President Obama about hope. (Please sign the open letter by going here: http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/301/petition.jsp?petition_KEY=1814)

Dear President Obama,
Your presidency marks the beginning of a new era in America and in the world. Against all odds and maybe even our own better judgment, you taught us to hope again. Now, the crisis in Gaza demands that you match our hope with real progress. And, just to be clear, those who voted for you aren't the only ones doing the hoping.We are Americans who voted for you and we are Palestinians and Israelis a world away. We are the women, men, and children who are suffering every single day in Gaza and Israel and we are the people who seek to heal their suffering. We are mothers of soldiers and children of refuseniks. We are Jews and Muslims, Christians and Atheists. We are united in our call to you today:Please, support peace for the people of Gaza and Israel.Press for an end to the blockade of Gaza, so that the people there can have food, medicine, fuel, and basic necessities. That is the only way that they can live, thrive, and rebuild their economy.Talk to everyone, including Hamas. The late Israeli Foreign Minister Abba Eban said, "You make peace by talking to your enemies." This holds true today. Even a mjority of American Jews support negotiations even with Israelis "worst enemies."Back up talk with actions. This includes monitoring arms smuggling into Gaza and U.S. military aid to Israel. Theseweapons are killing mostly children and civilians.And, support the Peace Plan. 57 countries around the world support this plan that provides independence and support for both Israel and Palestine. Peace Plan supporters won't wait for the United States forever – and without the United States, it won't happen. It's that simple.President Obama, we will continue to hope, and to support your efforts. Please, don't let us down. Please deliver the promise of hope.

A letter to Barbara and Jenna Bush

To Barbara and Jenna Bush,

Every house is magical for a child, irrespective of the fact if it is build of mud, stones, glass, tin or leaves off a tree. And, childhood is a magical time where fathers are Giants and mothers are fairies. Some children grow up to cherish their childhood memories, and pass on their stories to their young ones while others are not so lucky. When bombs destroy their homes, and kill their parents and leave them in destitution and pain, they learn to fetch for them at a very early stage; the faces of their giants and fairies fade away quickly and they become bitter and angry as they grow up. They do not share any good memories of their past with their offspring. The only memories they have is of desolation, despair, misery, pain and heartaches. When the leaders of the world act irresponsibly, unrest is the induced, wars are broken out and children become the real losers in this course of action. Your letter to Malia and Sasha is sweet, poignant and full of love and fondness towards your father; I just hope and pray that all the children of the world can share these feelings with two very sweet and happy girls in the White House.

It will be nice to see that smile on every child's face.

I am so proud of President Obama. Just one day in office and he is already showing his commitment to fulfil his promises. An executive draft is already in the making ordering closing of Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Some of the 245 detainees will be release while others will be transferred elsewhere and later put on trial.
The White house press secretary, Robert Gibbs, said that the president spoke to the leaders of Palestine, Eygpt, Jordan and Israel on telephone and assured them that this adminstration is committed in persuit of Arab-Israeli peace from the begining of the term; he intend to consolidate the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
He also met with senior military and foreign policy official in Situation Room along with the Vice President to discuss the responsible military withdrawl from Afghanistan and Iraq.
This president is certainly going to be a president of peace.

Welcome President Obama

Al-Fâtiha - The Opening

In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Praise be to God, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the world;

Most Gracious, Most Merciful; Master of the Day of Judgment.

Thee do we worship, and Thine aid we seek.

Show us the straight way,

The way of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace,

those whose (portion) is not wrath, and who go not astray.

-The Holy Quran

-translation by Abdullah Yusuf Ali

I am delighted to create this blog on the day Barack Hussain Obama is sworn-in as the first African American President of the United States of America. This new president inspires and motivates the people, young and old, all across the nation and the world. President Obama is the ultimate epitome of hope, change, responsiblity and peace, and the Muslims of the world will help this president to achieve his goal.

“To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict or blame their society's ills on the West, know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.”
Inaugural Address of Barack Hussain Obama, 20th January,2009.