reflections

Dec 2011-12-29 Reports

2011-12-29T11:16:00.001-08:00

Dec 2011-12-29 Reports

NAMF Gala – helping those in need 10th anniversary

The 10th Anniversary for NAMF Gala dinner came off with agreat vibe.

Many were honored for being volunteers by the MP JimKarygiannis and the NDP MP Rathika Sitsabaiesan. They have demonstratedconsistent support and sacrifice to help NAMF promote its relief services andoperate the Masjid Qurtaba project.

The main guest of honor was the Honourable Sitsabaiesan whospoke boldly, with facts and feelings on issues of humanitarian relief as wellas the need to recognise minority communities as they strive to make Canadahome. She is among the youngest women and first Tamil woman elected to office.The other meaningful presentation was by Canada’s first female Chinese MPP,the Honourable Soo-Wong who recently won the elections for AgincourtScarborough Provincial elections.

There was also Dr Shahida Khan, a known children doctor whofirst contacted NAMF about securing assistance in getting little Ehsan Mohamedhave an open heart surgery at Sick Kids hospital. She was very grateful thather appeal was quickly accepted and the fundraiser so far ahs been a success.Dr. Khan was honoured by NAMF Directors with a special plaque of recognition.

Mr Farouk Khan, Executive Director of North American MuslimFoundation, reminded to full house audience in the Jamil Dar Convention Center at 4140 Finch Ave E that the organisation isprogressing not only with relief and the local Masjid but with other effortslike the recent seniors programs and the forum on homelessness.

Guests were treated to a sumptuous dinner including roastedlamb and kurma with Azfar Ali entertaining them during dinner time with isunique witticism!

Miscommunication of attendance of MP Olivia Chow wasreceived from her office. NAMF regrets her absence and acknowledged her with aplaque and paid tribute to the late Jack Layton.

Lunch with a Rabbi

Having a kosher meat fish ball made with carrots in a busyJewish neighbourhood recently with a progressive Rabbi is something of a treat.

I met Rabbi Yossi Sapirman during an interfaith panel onsexuality. He has studied Islam and always happy to join Interfaith initiativesthat presents people of faith as normal citizens. The Rabbi is indeed a caring,deeply connected man with lots of community activism and layered with knowledgewhile gifted with humour. I was happy to have a moving lunch that made meunderstand that religious leaders are more than the prayer service leader. As Isat there so many people from his congregation came up to say Shalom or simplytalk or thank him. I was there to present him my new book on Intimacy and hewas so pleased to have supported the book with hope to talk about sexuality ina pluralistic way. This can be seen as another out of the box way of Twinning!Twinning of Mosques and Synagogues can be simply an Imam and Rabbi havinglunch! And only in Toronto!

Human rights conference held at Ontario Science Centre

Panellists included the Ombudsman of Toronto Fiona Crean andImam AbdulHai Patel elaborating that the almost half century of celebrating theuniversal declaration on human rights needs teeth still. With a video showingthe history of human rights struggle and the on going of struggles the audiencewere treated to songs of human rights and various presentations. The Church ofScientology were in the lead of establishing this event, reminding us that weare all consumed in the race for our natural human rights to whatever we areentitled to have.

The Prophet Muhammad on whom be peace for example came 1400 years ago and established the right forgirls to live, women to inherit and people to believe and pray freely! Howabout these for a start? We are indeed grateful for the Charter of Freedom andRights in Canada.

There was a girl there only 12 years and raised 1000.00 sofar within a year for charity that helps doctors in Guyana deliver babies withoutinfant mortality. She makes beads of hopes in shapes of necklaces, bands, etc.It was indeed a warm evening given the winter blues!

Interfaith trip to Jerusalem.

Muslims, Jews and Christians flying to Jerusalem, sitting in buses, worshipping atholy places, crossing borders, staying in same hotels and eating in samerestaurants for a week! Unheard of? Well only in Toronto that is possible. That is indeed afactual newsflash!

Yes members of the Interfaith community, thanks to the hardwork of Father Damien, Dr Karen of Canadian Council of churches and Judy Csilagthis was made possible. Every one paid for their own travel and willinglyjoined the trip for their personal enhancement.

The stories of admiration for Islam abounds in this trip.

Imam AbdulHai Patel could not participate in the wellattended forum organised by Scarborough Mission where two other panellists- aRabbi and Dr Karen did a wonderful job in travelogue the event that had almostfifty members travel, including some young Muslim students. It was indeed heartwarming to hear the stories of all three faiths and of how they marvelled atwitnessing each others places of worship and history in Jerusalem, witness each others worship andtravelled to the occupied territories and met with people from both sides ofthe country.

It is a sensitive issue and for people to respectfullyreport and talk of experience while avoiding the pitfalls of judgement andblaming is indeed a remarkable feat. This is the maturity the Interfaithcommunity has arrived at in Canadaand the world should take note. A viable project for a documentary andworthwhile imitative to take elsewhere!

Allah says and travel in the land and see how we treatedpeople in the past!

RIS message- love your humanity

The most poignant message I got from listening to Saturdayafternoon presentations, listened to some by 15000 attendees at the 10^thannual Reviving Islamic Spirit convention this Christmas Weekend at the Metroconvention Centre was love!

Listening to Habib Ali Al Jiffri say that when Islam allowsyou to marry a Christian or Jewsish woman then automatically it is saying youhave to love that person despite difference of faith and he comes over verypolite and loving towards humanity despite coming form a conservativebackground. This message really resonated. Similar things were said by DrAbdullah Idress who spoke on the importance of Muslim minorities ensuring theywork for the collective security of where they live as per the hadith that oneshould hold the hands of the oppressor as a form of helping one’s brother.

The many speakers and presentations left this point as atheme. Islam is love! With money raised from the event in the past helping some12000 hungry persons in Toronto– this is testimony that this belief is intrinsic of our Faith.

Tribute to My Aunt Leila- in Guyana who passed awayand was buried on Dec 182011

What a season!
You were chosen to end the pain
Among flowers and joy
You surrendered your last smile

A mother of ultimate sacrifice
A wife of unconditional love
A sister of sincere advice
My auntie Leila is endless affection, she 's nice!

At lost in the sea of life
Against life's maze of battling waves
You stood stronger than Jonah
Keeping the sail of values straight to shore!

Now that you've gone beyond
Lighting heaven, behind the proverbial blackout
The angels will salam you
Here comes the moonlight, laughing all the way

Who will listen to my rantings?
Who will laugh to my calls?
Who will act as my mother?
And keep my word when I fall?

I salute you oh woman of worth!
Nevermind your weakness
You one night never slept
Guarding your three angels against vicious eyes

A mother, a father, a soldier in one
This unsung hero, this best grandmother ever
A mother Mary of another
More gracious than Kaieteur your love for all

And when it's over
They will say where went Sandy?
The one whose coupe and curry
Made you feel royal, felt deeply loved, eh?

I love you and will always miss you!

Red Hassar- Guyana teacheslove one another!

There is something about Guyana that makes you want to goand stay. Yes, it’s the warm weather and superb hospitality. However, myencounter this time was the generosity of hassar- a super delicious fish thatis also known as cascdura or cascadoo.

I met a gentleman in the Mahaica Creek area whose immediatewarmth and readiness to share was like a spell cast upon my spirit. He feltinclined without formality, to ensure his guests were treated with maximumrespect and much fanfare; with tasty, tongue-licking hassar curry! In my talksacross the country at various places, I recognised the humble yet learnt anddeeply loving nature of the folks in the country as to what the ProphetMuhammad, owbp, entreated towards when he said the best of you in Jahilliya arethe best of you in Islam, if you have the understanding. Isn’t feeding theguests the very first principle the Prophet, owbp, introduced in Medina upon arrival?Feeding the guests even at the expense of one’s hunger and the hunger of one’schildren was the proven way of the Companions that Allah had caused to reveal-that they prefer others above themselves even if they suffered pangs of hunger!This is the common religion this beautiful land envelopes.

This gentleman goes on to tell his story, that being a Hinduand having married a Muslim woman did not prevent him from learning to recitethe Quran and sing Qaseedas- in praise of the Holy Prophet! Well that issomething not merely great but deeply spiritual. He now writes poems to hisdeceased wife- his therapy and unending love for a woman he never wanted totouch until marriage! When the Prophet was proposed to by Khatija he wassingled out for his trustworthiness and wisdom. To trust someone with your lifeand religion- knowing you will be dignified and your freedom of religion willbe respected is indeed a quality that is rare. Notwithstanding the Quranicinjunction, this is an experience to consider.

My other encounter was with a sister of “red” background,whose Christian persausion did not prevent her from attending the mosque forthe first time inorder to learn about Mother Mary- Jesus’ mother duringChristmas time. Her dedication, care and respect, was observed when she watchedcarefully the practise of the Juma prayers! She later on remarked that when themen stood up in line for prayers, without any urging nor discipline, it was themost poignant moment of all her Islamic experiences. She now wants a Quran andwas happy that the Imam actually spoke out against domestic violence- somethingMuslims and all are guilty of. That the Holy Prophet on whom be peace never hita woman; should be enough to counter any misinterpreted verses from the Quran thatseeks to justify killing women. It’s indeed tragic that love kills and one outof every three woman is a woeful victim!

Speaking to non Muslims in Guyana reminds you that respectis critical for all and for a nation that honours religions and races historically,it is important that we don’t fall into ghettoes of fundamentalists’ attitudestowards one another but see the social ills of society is everyone’s cares, asShamal aptly writes in his mind-boggling brochures, distributed across Guyanaand read for all types of persons.

When one sees the funeral attended by folks from all walksof life and prayers joined by every one, in order to pay the last respects of asister, a mother, an aunt it reminds you of the Holy Prophet standing at thepassing of the Jewish deceased and exclaiming it’s a soul too! So for a nonMuslim to contribute to a mosque, without any agenda, is no different from ourhistory, where our ancestors built together, ate together and chanted together.It’s so synonymous to our tradition where the Kaba was built by Non Muslimsbefore Islam with halal sources- from a ship wreck off Yemen and untiltoday the Hatem is testimony to that; as there weren’t enough halal funds tocomplete it.

I envisage a continuum of dialogues, events and studies toensure that the poor are protected and loved, religions avoid backbiting andleaders take heed to this global phenomenon- we are a family working from afar,for the good of humanity.

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

Tribute to My Aunt Leila- in Guyana who passed awayand was buried on Dec 18 2011

2011-12-28T10:25:00.000-08:00

Nov- report- HALIFAX

2011-12-05T08:42:00.001-08:00

Halifax is growing Muslim hub.

When you think of Halifax, Nova Scotia, you imagine the famous Dr Jamal Badawi- the prolific scholar whose cassettes I would listen to in the 80’s and lobster. Yes, and it’s lobster season and the cost of a permit is almost half a mil!

Now after visiting Halifax recently I would add to my memory ‘a familial community of successful Muslim professionals who are humble and progressive.’

I often see Halifax as the point of departure of African slaves on their way back to North Africa- the free town of Liberia. After talking to the famous Black history historian and Muslim activist Dr Afua Coopers, now the Chair of Black History at Dalhousie University, I came to realise that many of the Afro Canadians that I know and you may know like the Downeys are originally from the Muslim slaves brought under colonialism to these parts of the Free World. She said there almost 50 such settlements and the marked observation of Muslim presence can be seen.

I saw three main centres of Muslim worship and the main Masjid at the central Halifax is purpose built and beautiful, costing millions with one of the oldest Islamic schools in the province of East maritime. Meeting with Ziaullah Kahn who runs a dynamic and loving center for Islamic Dawah and development gives us the easy reminder that Toronto needs to do more in this department. He runs endless progressive educational program for New Muslims and inmates. I even met Mr Muhammad Yaffa, his next in comrade who is busy with Interfaith dialogue in the Muslim minority province.

At the Dartmouth mosque, which is the oldest, the Muslims who came in the early 60’s felt they could no longer pray Juma in the church when Allah had blessed them with wealth and abilities. Many were professors and doctors with lots for foreign students attracted to the province. They bought land and a house and today that new building has an annex for the Muslim women in the city. The Imam there is doing a fantastic job among the youths, Non Muslims, the professionals and interacting with the wider community is crucial. He is Moulana Hamza and is Canadian born and has studied in England.

I spoke at the big Ummamasjid for Juma and was amazed of the steady outpour of appreciation for the khutba as I recalled some of the activities we do in Toronto within the communities. I also spoke about my book on Intimacy at the Dartmouth mosque and again was met by both brothers and sisters with great compliment for a topic that is still taboo. The questions were deeply reflective as students from Saudi Arabia, India and elsewhere gather there to further their studies and are faced with many issues in a new land far from a Muslim majority. One doctor happened to have served the late Shaikh Uthaimeen and he remarked that he has never heard any one speak on such intimate topics and offered insights on organ donation from an Islamic perspective. He concurred that such an act is done professionally in some Muslim countries whereas others lack legislation hence the abuse.

The Nova Scotians are neighbourly, kind and willing to learn. My experience at the beautiful tip of North Eastern Canada called the Peggy's Cove was indeed indelible as fresh lobster is cooked and served with on the spot training and timely advise of the trade.

We are indeed lucky for this beautiful called Canada and I was even more lucky that my plane could have safely landed in at St John’s New Foundland the night Halifax was hit with an unexpected snow storm.

On leaving my heart melted as many came for my farewell and the warmth of brotherhood stayed with me, reminding me of my days in Georgetown among a less busy urban crowd, rather among family and friends that are so easy to live with and learn from. As Br Kursheed would say there that he hand slaughters all the animals at the farm that the Muslims consume and he doesn’t differentiate among the Muslims. As Br Mahmood, originally from Jordan and living there for almost two decades would say that Islam is easy and keep that in mind and you will love your Deen easily!

Islamic New Year 1433

I pray that this new year heralds great thing in your lives and the new moon of love, faith and prosperity will follow your every waking moment as you strive to make the best of yourselves and the communities. I pray Allah has accepted the Hajj of many who have be blessed to respond to that call recently.

I'm quite cognizant that some communities are in mourning during this time of the year as we all continue to remember the unparalleled self sacrifice of Imam Hussain, ra, on behalf of the wider Islamic civilization at that time of his young calling. I'm also aware that the history of Islam has been misrepresented and the texts redesigned at times to support one side or the other at the intolerable expense of lives, mutual harmony and overarching principles of justice, humanity and democracy.

I pray that goodness and common sense prevails as we plan and hope for a better year of 1433 AH: - again a reminder that migration from Mecca to Madina was chosen as the milestone to mark the origin our calendar, so apt for immigrants everywhere trying their best to establish their faith as a minority within the context of the many unfamiliar grounds and issues.

Jewish School opens in U f T and Muslims invited.

It’s a dream come true for Rabbi Roy Tannenbaum. After forty years in Canada and three years working with the School of Theology at the U f T the traditional Rabbinical school that would produce Rabbis with a modern understanding of issues that are Canadian has finally opened its doors.

At a rather lavish, academic and entertaining inauguration Imam AbdulHai Patel offered his congratulations and again Muslims in Canada are reminded how important it is to have traditional school of Islam that trains Imams within the Canadian context with all the modern tools and having the credentials of an accepted University degree. This was the idea behind the Muslim certificate Program offered at Emmanuel College. Habeeb Alli was present at the event and met so many people from all walks of life and religious backgrounds who found the eminent organisation of boards, faculty and curriculum something to emulate and celebrate.

Police celebrates the holidays and Eidul Azha

Where can you find Muslims celebrating Eid at a police headquarters and are treated to celebrations of Diwali, Gurparab and Christmas with folks eating halal food and lots of good curry?

Of course Toronto!

The Master of Ceremonies, Jake Dheer, ably entertained the audience of varied backgrounds and leadership with a variety of speakers representing the various consultative bodies to the Police, including Mr. Zul Kassimalli from the South Asian Committee and Usman Khan from the Muslim committee. A choir of Ismaili students rendered a Muslim song, a Hindu song and a carol to the amazement of the audience and the cheer of their peers. Many youths from the Tamil community were honoured for their continued volunteerism and the Chief Bill Blair was there in person to say thank you; for without the liaison committees safety in Toronto would remain a challenge.

Thank you for serving and protecting!

Scriptural Reasoning sessions

Not often you get to study texts from the Quran, the Bible and the Torah in home setting over tea and great friends from all three respective faiths.

Susan Harrison is a PHD student of religion and has been organising these very insightful sessions over the years. The last time we had these session the topic was on forgiveness and the issue of whether forgiveness necessitates an actual physical act or practical effort or just an act of grace and that of the heart. The sessions saw scriptures quotes, references from authors and scholars and lots of experiences and thoughts on present issues.

It’s something to witness!

Among the Muslims who attend and more are required is Imam Irshad, lawyer Omer and Shaikh Habeeb and Br Hamza.

Eid with inmates

Thank you for not judging me! That was the words of many of the inmates after partaking in the Eid celebrations for EidulAzah at two half way houses in Toronto.

Eating hot curry and roti prepared by volunteers at Brampton Islamic Centre and talking about the story of Abraham and the hajj made these diners such a wonderful experience.

The few Muslim inmates that participated and even helped organise along with the community chaplain rev Harry Nigh and the management shows that just as Abraham had hope on Allah that he would not make Him sacrifice his son nor take his life away even when left in dessert so too we have to have hope in the human dignity of life- that inmates too have life and a faith and they too deserve a second chance at life.

Qurbani meat served to Yong Street Mission

Many would like to see the poverty in Toronto go away. How many is doing something about it?

Every year we ask Muslims to consider doing their duty of Qurbani in Toronto so places like Yong Street Mission daily food bank may have some halal meat for their many Muslim users.

It was amazing to note that this year Mr Mutaqeen of Brampton was able to donate more of the beef and lamb thanks to more donors a volunteers. Other sin GTA added their lot including Mr Sadro Usman and his networks. The cause is amazing and while Pakistan flood and Somali attracted a wider support the issue at home will always come first. Charity begins at home and Qurbani done at home or elsewhere is valid.

Holocaust education week held at Solel.

On a cold Friday night when the game is on and the fireplace is warm you don’t think to driving to Mississauga and attend a synagogue. But such is the call of building bridges and not underestimating that discrimination against one is racism against all. Yesterday was the Jews and tomorrow maybe the Muslims.

So Solel synagogue invited neighbours to listen to a very moving lecture on the Holocaust. Among the attendees were the leadership of IMO, Br Ameer and Umar and many other Muslims.

Treated to a beautiful rendition from the Torah and lots of sweets after, the evening turned to issues about Islamophobia, women in the Quran and the need to have interfaith sessions organised by Muslims. Now that is something!

Emmanuel College hosts session on Muslim chaplaincy

Being a chaplain that serves the spiritual needs of all faiths is seen at time challenging one’s own faith.

That was the theme of a forum held at Emmanuel college by Natalie Wiqq, a professor for teaching pastors at Emmanuel College at U f T. The panellists were Rev Harry Nigh and Habeeb Alli.

The students asked some very pointed questions and the moderator, the professor herself was very deep in questioning the role of chaplaincy in prison setting, the after care, the education and the way one serves others without compromising ones faith.

Jesus served all was the answer from the Rev and the Imam reminded all that Muhammad was sent to all humankind and a chaplain is spiritual facilitator and he gets reward from God for making others find God!

Rememberance 2011

2011-11-08T07:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Editor

It’s a dream come true!

My connection with Queen’s College, Guyana, has proven to be a great opportunity of grace and honour. Wherever I travelled in the world, I proudly announced my Alma Mater with distinction, knowing that my five years there provided me a distinct training ground for language skills, social negotiation and inter racial success.

The recent twentieth anniversary of Queen’s alumni in Toronto reminded us that equitable living, inclusive development and innovative practices should be our gift to Guyana and the rest of the world. Such was the inspired message one of our proud sons Dr. Lawrence Clarke, USA, delivered in his notable jovial and exceptional academic style. Women are excelling in the world today in fields of leadership, science and education. However, the recent recognition of Yemeni Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Tawakkul Karman, as this young hijabi struggled fearlessly to ensure justice was done in the Arab Spring, reminds us that the many unsung heroines of our time, our mothers first, are the bedrock of our civilization and even a silent prayer on their behalf is worth more than a thousand plaques of Facebook recognition.

This weekend in Toronto, my schedule, as usual, reminded me that my upbringing in Guyana has made me quietly thankful yet sonorously humble that I can navigate between cultures, traditions, and religious personalities, given the wide scope of events a cleric must attend and still remain a rock of steadfastness on one’s Faith.

Where in the world can one attend a Muslim-service for inmates held in a chapel, grab a fish fillet at MacDonald’s on his way to praying the midday prayers at the mosque and then head to a Diwali celebration, bringing the message of love, while his GPS is set to a church where he prays sunset prayer in a room observed by others reverently? It gets better! Later he sits with Christians, offering reflections and finally has supper with a venerable Rabbi among others, in a hall decked for Halloween, where but Canada?

This is the season of reflection. As pilgrims head for Mecca, remembering Abraham’s willingness to let go of his beloved son, so the higher calling of God’s love may prevail, seems to me is the essence of Hajj. This is the time that we seek to share the halal meal with the lesser fortunate, as we make the yearly charity of Qurbani, commemorating the fact that human sacrifice i.e. ‘honour’ killings, are absolutely prohibited.

This is also Remembrance Day season- a time we are jolted out of our family-job-entertainment focused lifestyle to say: never again will the ruthless horrors of war be our political game plan; sometimes backed by anti-Semitic, Islamophobia, homophobic and all forms of discriminatory ideology lurking behind encrypted usernames and passwords. When you wear a poppy you say to yourself and the rest of us: that I will not discriminate as racists are unwelcome sharks.

This is the time to Remember. Lest we forget! No one should be discriminated against, regardless of whatever sect they belong to or country of origin. The greatest teaching in Scripture is to love your neighbour with all your heart!

As I prayed for the meaning of peace and love in the Interfaith Neighbourhood service last evening, the new moon of an ending lunar year, seem to instil into my deeper conscience, a nuance of Prophet Job’s like supplication: that it’s time to relentlessly speak up to God.

That Oh Lord of Abraham and Muhammad and the billions of downtrodden humans in my family, how long will I hope that my daily prayers, my annual fasts and constant charity, with my occasional pilgrimage, besides my daily dosages of religious observances, be held hostage at your merciful court, while I beg for the release from these shackles of unholy forces and cruel financiers? Is it that my worship is so meagre and my faith is too frail, that you do not respond to my petition against this dark wave of unstoppable hurt, wanton pillage and indifferent leadership; that rape our innocence and disregard our environment? Maybe my blood is boiling and my eyes well tears, my hands have become nervous and I cannot contain my angst, but allow me to at least realise that without the sacrifice of Jesus, Moses and Muhammad, on whom be peace, and our Father Abraham’s ultimate sacrifice, we will not have any prayers answered let alone understand Divine justice where we are. Oh Lord of Creation, you are peace, shower us with such peace that forgiveness of ourselves and forgiveness of others comes to us with such ease like the streams that enter your oceans; regardless from which continent we come from, we may live together in these watery places.

As the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Toronto said recently in the largest dinner in Canada, 1600 attendees, that we used to love people and use things but today we love things and use people!

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

Yours truly

OCTober events

2011-11-08T07:15:00.001-08:00

IFT Hosts another annual appreciation dinner

It was bigger and better this year! The annual Islamic Foundation appreciation dinner held at the new and impressive Embassy Convention Centre in Brampton, convened with hundreds of people from the across the beautiful Toronto.

The theme this year according to event coordinator Waris Malik is about athletes and sports people who have excelled despite of their disabilities and other challenges.

Among the usual awardees were the Police, EMS and Firefighters who are recognised yearly for their outstanding contribution towards a safer Toronto. The late Sergeant Russell was honoured, who was recklessly driven over in a police and run away driver dangerous incident earlier this year. His wife was there to accept it.

The sportsmen included a man in wheel chair all the way from Pakistan who is a world champion in table tennis! Many Muslim leagues for basket ball, hockey and baseball were recognised for their many years of yeoman service including the female wing of Islamic Soccer league.

The highlight of the evening, attending by almost 800 people form all divides and echeleons of society was the main speech delivered by Khulsom Abdullah, an American Pakistani who wears the hijab and lifts about 110 kg dead weight! She is a world champion weight lifter and has even challenged the World Association of Weightlifting to ensure the hijab is accepted. Kkulsom is PhD in Chemistry and speaks about her mind in challenging the stereotypes Muslim girls wearing the hijab faces in the field of sports and the accompanying social stigma from Muslim peers. She made us proud and is heading for the Olympics. See www,liftingcovered.com

The cuisine was delicious and the camaraderie was so warm that the celebration of that night will be felt fro along time.

Yusuf Day of Hope apreciation

A boy sits in a wheel chair. His nanny tends to him. He seems jovial and alert. The oxygen-giving machine is obvious. He is happy. The scenario is the dinner held to recognise the work volunteers and parents of Yusuf do every year at the annual picnic in order to raise awareness on behalf of Sick Kids Hospital Foundation. It was at the TARIC Mosque, as the main coordinator is Imam Imran ally and family. The Foundation, the volunteers and donors were recognised for their outstanding volunteer work and the fact that this little Yusuf is alive and as such many others is something worth celebration. The group has passed the 50,000.00 dollars mark and will be incorporated in the Foundation’s wall of recognition. The boy received his successful surgery some seven years ago and like the many are enjoying the fruits of model medical care system of the world!

http://www.yusufdayofhope.ca/

However, these hospitals are still usually short of funding for equipment and as such our generous gifts go a far way to help. Presently, Muslims in Scarborough are being called to assist with Birchmount Campus- Scarborough General, to secure a MRI machine going at the cost of 5M. NAMF is fundraising for a boy from Pakistan undertaking a complex heart surgery at Sick Kids. The dinner on Dec 3^rd will help costs for the boy, his family, accommodation, medication, travels, etc

http://www.namf.ca/

Masjid Abu Bakr held its first annual Islamic conference

‘Youths need our guidance and help’, sermonised the lead Imam for Masjid Abu Bakr in Scarboorugh in September, Moulana Kasim Ingar. This was at one the Juma after Ramadan of this newly finished Masjid that has ornate Moorish like designs inside its maidenly built Mosque on Lawrence and Midland Ave. The establishment of a yearly conference where speakers from local and abroad may educate the youths and the general masses about Islam was copied from the Youth Tarbiya program the Islamic Foundation established about 10 years ago. Many of the Scholars death with the theme of Prophet Abraham and his life. Named the Pearl of Paradise, the organisers felt the turn out was reasonable with lots of sisters in the sisters only session and lots of interactions from the youths as Imams from USA, South Africa and UK engaged them. President of the Scarborough Muslim association Sal Hafeejee remarked that it’s an achievement to have all these educated individuals and local youths congregate in one spot on the long weekend.

www.Pearlsofparadise.ca

Imams held dinner at Jaffari Mosque on Thanksgiving evening.

Thanking Allah is deep in our conscience. Imams are no different. It was a grand event at the Jafari mosque in Bayview Ave on last Thanksgiving evening when Imams from the Canadian council of Imams had a grand tour of this impressive museum, mosque, school and gymnasium, housed in the lavish grounds of Jaffari Village in Richmond Hill. It was the statutory monthly meting of the Council and this time Shia and Sunni Imams met for a social, talking about shared issues like the school prayer and chaplaincy as well as to learn from their special guests that night- Dr Barbara Landau and Shahid Aktar- coordinators of the Twinning of Mosques and Synagogues project. This is a learning weekend on Nov 15^th to 18^th to 20^th where Jews and Muslims work on a relationship dialogue and get to know your faith events.

The Council has always been non-sectarian with members from diverse Islamic backgrounds and this reinforces the idea that we have common issues and beliefs in many respects.

Ambition Newspaper honours its writers.

Being recognised for one’s volunteerism means a lot. But not always this is so much done. The hadith states he who doesn’t thank the people has not thanked God!

Among those that received a plaque of recognition is Abdullah Sabre, Habeeb Alli, Mohamed Shokr, Munawwar Merchant, etc.

Among the donors and advertisers and well-wishers were Imam Shaikh Abdulrazack and Imran Ally.

Asma Warsi is the Editor in Chief and publisher and has put in to the first Muslim journal for young Muslims in Canada twenty five years!

http://www.theambition.com/

Islamic History month celebrated at Noor Cultural centre.

On a rainy evening during October, when most people are sipping hot chocolate and sitting in front of Face Book, many others braved their egos and attended the much educative and socially warm evening at Noor Cultural Centre, Toronto, on October 19^th.

The guest speaker was Dr Macdonald from USA, former diplomat, who was invited by Dr Wahida Valiante to talk about his book and now a film in making- Lost History. He visited many countries and world organisations, parliaments and embassies where he has presented his topic since 2007. Lost History present the great story of Muslim Spain, and India- civilizations of Islam that contributed science and arts to the West.

October was declared Islamic History month by the Government of Canada and lots more needs to be done educating the world of this Lost History and the new history that Muslims are making in the West everyday.

Interval house hosts reception

Domestic Violence is a scourge on society. But the victims don’t have to squirm for help and be treated as second class citizens. This city provides amazing facilities for women and their children once the call for help is made and are even schooled and helped all the way to regain their lives through jobs, clothing, housing, stipends, children schools, etc

Interval House is among the many outstanding family-friendly homes that provide emergency shelters. I happen to be a donor and was invited to a reception. There are Muslims victims and staff there. Help and love is needed for these generous and professional management folks at the downtown Victorian-style residence. I presented my recent book on Intimacy to the organisers in hope my tiny contribution will remind these sisters that Islam is love and grants you your dignity and the right for fulfillment despite what the cruel other says. There are approximately 14000 cases reported in Brampton and 25000 in Toronto yearly.

Grace on the hill invites Imam to join prayer

An evening of such silence, prayer and lots of good food greeted attendees of the Grace on the Hill Interfaith service. The church is managed by the Anglican Archdiocese and was built around 1874 in the upscale Forest Hill neighbourhood.

The coordinator Bryan Beauchamp warmly welcomed his guests and even provided a room for the Magrib prayer. Imam Habeeb delivered the end prayer and intercession in the form of sura Fatiha and the an English supplication reminding all that we serve the God Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad prayed to. The evening ended with halal/ kosher food in the parish hall with lots of warm tea and questions on Islam and Judaism from Christian participants. This is a great country!

The Archbishop’s Dinner held at Metro convention centre.

The elegantly dressed gentleman wearing maroon robes, hanging all the way to his feet, and a topee-like cap with a cross necklace, smiling with his guests, as they photo in the foyer of the impressive Metro Convention Center is His Grace, Archbishop Thomas Collins. He is greeting the 1600 attendees from the one million members of his Catholic Archdiocese in Toronto at the 32^nd annual dinner. This was starred by a Cardinal in order to have politicians, business people and the clergy sit at the same table and raise awareness of poverty, etc. To date the charity ball has raised 6 millions dollars for various shelters, food banks, and social justice organisations. On the interfaith table were Rabbis, Reverends from other denominations and Imams- all invited by the famous personality in Interfaith circles Father Damian Macpherson. Halal and kosher meals were prepared in advance for the special guests. This is Canada’s largest dinner doing the things of large hearted people for large causes! As the Archbishop said in his key note address that in the Bishops retreat in Rome they avoid the media for a one week and reflect deeper of who they are – they are trained to not be afraid but deepen what you are and deeply care about your faith as in the past people use to love people and use things but now it’s the opposite.

Habitat for Humanity held Faith leaders build

Muslims are receiving interest-free housing at Habitat for Humanity various locations and they just repay the principal for market rated, newly built homes. This is a project of love for humanity, and every year we take pride in volunteering faith leaders to help build those homes. It’s a hard one to crack given the indifference the Muslim community has shown to his initiative. Imam Habeeb has invited other Imams and others to join. The donation is at least 150.00 per volunteer and this year he Noor Cultural centre had representatives building along side Rabbis and Pastors. Imam Slimi had a crew of 25 volunteers earlier before he went on Hajj. When 25% of the recipients are Muslims and when this is near Islamic financing then the response should be greater from Muslims knowing that each recipient must give 500 volunteers hours in order to qualify, says Lina a hijab volunteer and lawyer helping the cameras and hammer that day! She shares the concern Muslim recipients have aired!

http://www.habitatforhumanity.ca/

Seniors are our treasures

The many issues seniors face are ever present in our minds as the baby boomer population quickly rises. What to do with seniors living alone or even living with others but that have poor travelling and language skills, feel alienated from their culture, etc. Like many, NAMF runs a seniors program every Tuesday at the NAMF location at Midland and Finch Scarborough. Among the activities are presentations from various health and city related agencies, religious education and potluck lunch with many outings. The team recently went to Algoma park North pass Sudbury and enjoyed the fall colours at the Love Inn!

Habeeb Alli recently presented to them the intricacies of Hajj and Qurbani and took their many questions that borders between culture and religion on matters of the same. There is among many cultural senior groups the Indo Caribbean Golden Age that caters for both cultural and religious needs of seniors through their various functions. They too want to ensure Muslims are properly catered for and invited Habeeb Alli to enlighten them on this recently at Agincourt Centre.

Thanks for all you do for our mothers and fathers and we would need the same some day.

BALLET OF LOVE

2011-10-19T09:11:00.001-07:00

I went to an awesome ballet last night

Where Chinese performers

Dexterously charade to the tune

Of a forlorn love story

In beautiful paces

Standing on toes

They enthralled the crowd

With passionate expressions

What love could be

What trials it brings

On those laces of flawless execution

The stage was mesmerizing

With 3d snowflakes and fall leaves

The prince eventually marries the girl!

After 20 years of scenic life stories

The music serenades all

Soothing Chinese ballads

A spa for the soul

Tears flow quietly

Such is the life of romance

It comes and with it some guests

With tiny gifts only the dreamers could see!

Return of a snowy night

At Sony

Is a deeper resonance

Of each lovers' tale carries inner beauty

Smoothly breathtaking

It leaves you wanting more!

Wedding Poem- Becks and Rajnesh!

2011-10-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

Becky and Rajesh

Married on this summer day

Two Canadian West Indians

Falling in love like ripe mango throw away

This doubles and phoulouri’

Cascado and hassar

This twin islands of affection

Devoted to God such is true attraction

The sweetness of Rebecca

The depth of Rajesh

Why not be garlanded by flowers

Petals and sequins for a lifetime treasures

It’s rare to be in this world alone

But it’s not always easy not to be lonely

So when love knocks at your door

Don’t say no for that’s Allah’s unpaid blessing for sure

Khan and Rajaram children

You have not lost your son nor daughter

But gained one from each other

This is the chutney of life you never pay for

So Imtiaz and Rebecca

Remember from today

You’re no longer kids

Fear God and you’ll be more beautiful everyday!

OCT REPORTS OF EVENTS ATTENDED IN TORONTO

2011-09-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

Canadian Council of Imams and InterfaithInvolvement.

19/09/2011

Habeeb Alli

Secretary

CCI

I was asked recently at a conference on Interfaith hosted by theCanadian Race Relations Foundation about the Council of Imams and theirInterfaith involvement and challenges.

This was a national conference. The many invitees included aProfessor from Montréal University who is the Chairof Islam and Pluralism. Those in attendance were from the widest back groundsof multiculturalism and Interfaith work across Canada.

People were amazed how an organisation without an official budgetand secretariat and one that works with volunteer Imams can do so much for thepast 20 years!

I explained that apart from training Imams on the Canadian contextand answering policy papers for all three layers of the government, while respondingto issues on the media, Interfaith work is integral to the Council. As per sewe have Dr Imam Abdul Hai as the official Interfaith Director and Dr Mohamed AlNadvi who sits on the Forces Interfaith Committee with a number of Imams who arepermanent members for many Interfaith committees and initiatives.

Among the programs I mentioned are Habitat for Humanity, Canadian BloodServices, Ontario Trillium Gift of Life Organ Donations, One Match Bone MarrowTransplant, MDGs of United Nations, Education on AIDS and HIV, CanadianInternational Peace Project, World Religions Parliament, National MuslimChristian Dialogue, Opening the Courts, Interfaith trip to Jerusalem andTurkey, Mayor’s Breakfast with Toronto Area Interfaith Council and Meeting withHis Holiness Dalai Lama, Twining of Mosques and Synagogues for last four years,Ontario Multi Faith Council and Chaplaincy Services at Prisons, Hospitals andUniversities, Interfaith Dialogues on various issues including 911 anniversaryservices, Muslim Certificate Program discussions with main stream Universities,working with alliance against Poverty and homelessness, school visits to Muslimplaces of worship, talking on issues with Mosaic at Rogers TV and Vision TVPrograms, member of the OIKOS environmental movement, social justice groupslike Pro Life, etc. Membership with International Bodies like World InterfaithCouncil, etc.

I know these are no way close to the immense other projects,programs and events the members of the Council are part of. However, this givesan insight into the involvement and the Canadian context the Council brings toIslam for the better Canadaand the relevance of Islam in the 21^st Century.

So how shall we cross these challenges and still remain relevant forthe next decade is the question of the hour.

Q 9:94 They will present theirexcuses to you when you return to them. Say thou: "Present no excuses: weshall not believe you: Allah has already informed us of the true state ofmatters concerning you: It is your actions that Allah and His Messenger will observe:in the end will you be brought back to Him Who knows what is hidden and what isopen: then will He show you the truth of all that you did."

ISACR hosts press conference on poverty

Ontarioelections are here. But what are the main platforms? For years ISARC-InterfaithCoalition Against poverty has been at Queens parkto remind the politicians of their duty to reduce poverty. I attended a pressconference where Jews, Christians Muslims stood at the UnitedChurch lawns last Thursday morning indowntown Torontoand placed the lawn signs in black and white reminding the world that PovertyFree Ontario is critical whilst voting. All faiths hold the poor dear and haveinstitutions to make poverty history. Imam Hamid Slimi reminded us that it’sthe duty of those in power to reduce this disgraceful situation of thousands ofpoor Ontarians given the wealth of the land. ISARC has been doing lots more outreachsince the new Executive Director joined last year- Michael Skaljin. www.isarc.ca

Muslims host Eid dinners for inmates

Eid is not only for the free. Those incarcerated arefortunate in Canadato have great religious accommodations and Eid celebrations are part of that.This year I organised Eid inside some of the intuitions taking in some hot andspicy beef curry and dahlpuri roti, so a sense of diversity celebration couldbe experienced by the Muslims serving times as well as some of theircolleagues. The Keel Half way house and Bramptonhallway house have been very grateful for this experience. Father Harry Nighwas very supportive and loving in partaking with the dinner and sayinguniversal grace. The celebration of Eid in the Muslim world includes allneighbours and goes on for days but in Torontowe still have Eid dinners in the mosques for weeks. So this has been soencouraging given the good news that some of the men and women who haveaccepted Islam in prison are out and doing well with their Islam; finding jobs,going back to school, reunited with their families and enrolling in theircommunity colleges. The challenges of reintegration for inmates are immense andwith such community dinners the opportunities to visit them and interact withothers is crucial for a safer Canada.Imam Yasin Dwyer is doing also wonderful job in Kingston area organising Eid dinners and hetravels from far. They are others volunteering in the communities and we wishto extend to them our heartiest Eid greetings.

Ahl Bayt hosts Eid dinner

This is an annual ritual. Muslims from around GTA, officialsand Interfaith leaders joined the AhlBayt community for a sumptuous dinner,. This year event at theWoodbine Banquet hall Sunday evening wasspecially honoured with the recognition of Ghulam Sajan many decades ofoutstanding interfaith and community service. A well deserved award. Ghulam hasworked assiduously over the many years to build bridges in the communities anddespite his recent ailment he has not stopped to fundraised for the poorchildren in Africa and reach out to all in thecommunities. The comedian Jaffer Mohamed was in the house entertaining all inloud laughter using his voice skills. Greetings from a number of political andinterfaith leaders were part of the evening.

NAMF hosts Interfaith forum on homelessness.

People standing on downtown traffic lights or in Scarborough ramps asking for help. They even accept Visaand MasterCard!

How do you view the homeless? What does the religions sayand are doing to solve the 150000 plus homeless Ontarians.

Senator Hugh Seagal was very vocal and strategic in giving insightto to many government policy about homelessness and he referred to ImamHabeeb’s message of self dignity and human respect for homeliness. Manyspeakers including Shaikh Ala Sayed from ISNA spoke about the importance ofbuilding houses of the homeless as well as those living in deplorableconditions- some 1 out of every 5 are suffering and the need of homes for inmatesreturning to the community that is conducive to their culture and religions wasmany times sited. Many groups are doing a wonderful job providing services formental health and drug addictions under one roof. Habitat For Humanity ishelping many Muslims acquire homes on interest free mortgages and support fortheir initiative is crucial. The partners of this imitative was between NAMF,Multifaith Alliance Against homelessness with the St Augustinian Centre forSocial Justice. The event was held at the Multi faith Centre, U of T. The needto have more Muslims attending Interfaith events and organising is crucial.

26/09/2011

OCTOBER

Habeeb Alli

Muslims celebrated two days of Eid at Ontario Place

While Eid was celebrated on two days this year in GTA manyMuslims were pleased to find that Ontario Place summer event for Muslims was quiteconvenient. It allowed Muslims to observe Eid prayers and fun with theirfamilies on either days or even both!

With United Muslims putting on the event every year thisyear was unique on two fronts- its was the 40^th Anniversary sopasses were free. It was always two days event so Ontario Place agreed with organiser OmarKalair to have it on Tuesday and Wednesday. The tickets were reasonable and wasmeant for the rides and movies. Almost two thousand Muslims participated andprayer were lead on both days by different Khateebs. The movie Arabia in3 Max was shown along with good food was onsale. This event will continue once summer and Ramadan coincides!

Somaliacrisis moves all

A number of events were organised during Ramadan and after,even at Ontario Place Eid prayers to help the millions affected by the worsedrought in the region’s history. NAMF had Mr Farouk Khan and others working onthe ground during Ramadan, He said it was quite dangerous- travelling to the Kenya capital Nairobi,organising the purchase of materials and trucking it to the border at Camp Dababin order to feed the hungry. He saw dying people, people begging for water,people fighting for food and thousands of refuges waiting placement in thecamps. Muslims and all others responded generously towards this humanitariancrisis and continues to do so. Among the donors towards the NAMF operations isthe Islamic Foundation and Masjid Daruslam.

Muslim cemetery opens

Muslims now have their own place for a cemetery thanks tothe good works of a Jewish entrepreneur and some Muslims in the Sunni and Shiacommunities. Last Sunday was the ground breaking ceremony and friends of bothcommunities were present. Karen Mock, a hard worker for peace, commented that she saw this a great stride inbuilding bridges as we are not only together when alive but after death! Thisis Richmond Hillarea and can serve some 20 000 Muslims!

Jack Layton funeral was mourned by Muslims

I sat in the Church next to the Roy Thomson hall and becamepart of history. Jacl Layton was given a celebratory funeral and he was sentoff in state funeral style- a rare but deserving respect for a man who workedhard for Muslims and all minorities. He helped the Madina Masjid as it is inhis riding. Last Friday Muslims gathered at the Pakistan community centre at Gerard ST Torontoto pay respect to this dear man, Jack.

I read this poem and Olivia Chow and Michael Layton expressed their sincere gratitude.

Jack you lay before us
A ton of memories riveting
From July 18, 1950 – August 22, 2011
The dash is dashing yet sad!

An indefatigable defense of the poor
An unstoppable voice for the voiceless
You made Muslims feel belonged
You stood up against apartheid far and wide

It’s the love story that my eye catches
Twenty six years and still blushing
Where do you find the passion?
I know now- love more than anger!

Somehow Summer 2011 will forever etched
As Ramadan’s breeze overwhelm
A snowbird departs hopeful of the green shower
That the cane dropped, smiling, so reminiscent of Solomon!

Holy Trinity Churchhosted 911 ceremony

I spoke at the Holy trinity Toronto about lighting a candle of love andnot sending hate messages tot eh word. I was delighted to have some Muslimfriends and family present and the kind words of praise for the message andsolidarity with Muslims who have suffered during this decade of fear wereexpressed deeply by members of the church. This is the church that Jack Layton attended.

I read poem there. This poem was written for a similarevents hosted by Imam Slimi Masjid in Mississauga.

Decade of Fear

Decadeof repair

Tragicact

Memoriesstill intact

Howdo you not fear?

Travelingyou get the stare

Injury box

Islamsits judged and that sucks!

Butyou can be the victim

Cryingfoul until end of time

Oryou can light a candle

Withenlightened acts like Sayyida Khatija Centre

Awakeoh Muslims of Canada

Yourdestiny is safe as in Madina

Islamicismmaybe extremism

Butextremism is not Islam or any of ism.

Tribute to Ustad Bagh Khan

2011-09-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

U- You
S-Shall
T-Teach
A-Always
D-Deen

Ustad you're gone but not away
You rsmiles are here
Your rememberance is just felt everywhere
Your legacy without end.

Half a century and more
From Leguan to Stabroek
From Queenstown to Imdadul
The love of Rasoolollah you emphasized.

Healthy and young
I would ask you your secret
And that Heavenly smile replies
Allah and Love of His Prophet

So I mourn not your lost
I think you deserve O Teacher of Scholars
A standing ovation, for you're my hero
And must be given a celebratory send off

Simplified Arabic
Thoughtful pondering
On the words of the Quran
Never mind the differences

Respect you constantly taught
That's the legacy
By which the globe will remember you by
Ustad, the man of the heart!

Book Launch.

2011-09-15T10:56:00.002-07:00

MEDIA Advisory
 
Toronto, ON - August 22nd, 2011- Meet accomplished author, Habeeb Alli
on Wednesday,  September 21st,2011 from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at UIA,
#2-2570 Haines Rd, Mississauga, ON.
 
His new book, "Intimacy and the Sacred - In Muslim Communities" talks
about sexuality and what the Quran and Hadith have to say about it.
 
"Oftentimes, as Muslims, we are unsure about what is halal, or sinful
with regards to romance, marriage, and sexuality. These issues have
become ever more cogent in this post-modern era where practices such
as dating, and multiple partnering have become normalized. Habeeb
Alli's Intimacy and the Sacred in Muslim Communities clarifies,
educates, and explains these very pressing matters. He shows that
Islam is far from being a ‘prudish' religion, as it is viewed in some
quarters, and has in fact consistently elaborated upon these topics in
core Islamic literature. His training in the East and living in the
West brings a unique Canadian context to the subject as can be seen on
http://www.allexperts.com/ep/947-69836/Islam/Imam-Habeeb.htm".
 
The evening will include short readings and the opportunity to
personally meet the author and purchase signed copies of his book.
 
Intimacy and the Sacred in Muslim Communities is now available in
e-book and paperback formats from the publisher, Iuniverse at
1-800-AUTHORS (288-4677), the author's website at
www.muslimsincanada.ca and all major online retailers.
 
About the Author
Mr. Habeeb Alli is a scholar, author, poet and educator. He pursued
his graduate studies in India after completing Queen's College in
Guyana. He returned to Guyana after graduating with his Masters in
Islam and Arabic Language, along with a diploma in Journalism. He
resides in Toronto with his family. Shaikh Habeeb has authored
thirteen books on Islam and poetry and continues to teach and present
contemporary Islam to Canadians.
 
Mr. Alli is a member of the Canadian Council of Muslim Theologians,
Secretary of the Canadian Council of Imams, Governor at the Canadian
International Peace Project, and Executive at the Canadian Guyanese
Writers Association.
 
The author can be contacted for speaking engagements or permissions
through A. Rycman at 416-431-2244 or email habeebbooks@gmail.com.
 
###

Poem on 911 10th Anniversary

2011-09-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

Decade of Fear

Decade of repair

Trajic act

Memories still intact

How do you not fear?

Traveling you get the stare 

In jury box

Islam sits judged and that sucks!

But you can be the victim

Crying foul until end of time

Or you can light a candle

With enlightened acts like Sayyida Khatija Centre

Awake oh Muslims of Canada

Your destiny is safe as in Madina

Islamicism maybe extremism

But extremism is not Islam or any of ism.

Recited at the Centre's Eid dinner.

Eid greetings.

2011-08-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Editor

Allow me to share Eid sentiments as we close this year’s Ramadan.

I must say with elections coming up you are more keen to learn what Muslims may have learn from this month of self discipline.

I would like to reiterate that the same mannerisms displayed during this month should allow us enough fuel to serve and participate in the upcoming elections with honesty, lack of violence and true patriotism.

Muslims have learnt that during the fasting hours they must not swear nor lie, they must not back bite nor cheat and their fast will be much more sacred if they give alms and attend the mosque. Let this spirit of brotherhood be realized in this country as we take on another impactful but necessary event in our blessed democratic nation. As you can see what we are enjoying right now thanks to the blood, sweat and tears of our ancestors others are giving up lives and wealth for in other parts.

The tragic famine in the Horn of Africa should also remind us, that with zakat and feeding a fasting person so easily done in Ramadan, this selflessness must remain with us throughout, as we too had our fair share of deprivation in our past history. While people walk for hours for water, we now have running taps. While mothers cannot bury their dead, fathers cannot find their sons, we do have ours a text away. Let’s see each other as brothers and sisters. Love more than anger is the legacy of the successful, as the late Canadian Jack Layton said.

I would like to remind our people that hope and love abide in the veins of Guyanese. When I was home recently I witnessed it again as much as I always referenced the diversity of Guyana as the true model of harmonious living. One late night on my way from Berbice, I had a double tire puncture in ECD. With the fear and phobia one can only imagine how much prayer must have gone in our minds! The savior of our calamity was a man and his girlfriend of African descent. You can well imagine what the headlines of such a story could be!

Africans and Indians are humans. They are the fathers of our nation alike. They are our teachers and neighbors. They are our families and friends. They deserve a better tomorrow. Maybe Gandhi’s new born Anna Hazare can find resonance in Guyana- that the faith leaders and the social conscious people need to remind all, once again- we will not take it – no Satanic racist will exploit our pure thoughts for a few votes. Never again!

Happy Eid!
Safe School! Peaceful Voting!
Yours truly,
Habeeb Alli

Tribute to late Jack layton Canada

2011-08-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

Habeeb Alli
25/08/2011
In memory of Jack Layton, Canada’s Opposition Leader.

“Really great people make you feel that you, too, can become great.”
Mark Twain

Jack you lay before us
A ton of memories riveting
From July 18, 1950 – August 22, 2011
The dash is dashing yet sad!

An indefatigable defense of the poor
An unstoppable voice for the voiceless
You made Muslims feel belonged
You stood up against apartheid far and wide

It’s the love story that my eye catches
Twenty six years and still blushing
Where do you find the passion?
I know now- love more than anger!

Somehow Summer 2011 will forever etched
As Ramadan’s breeze overwhelm
A snowbird departs hopeful of the green shower
That the cane dropped, smiling, so reminiscent of Solomon!

Domestic violence against men is violence against all.

2011-07-06T09:01:00.000-07:00

Domestic violence against men is violence against all.

Allow me to join in the discussion about domestic violence against men.

I have for many years fought against this scourge and sickness in Guyana and Canada. Although I write from an Islamic perspective, I have realised that this issue is across all divides. Hence to name this gender based violence is appropriate.

There are too many stories of silent abuse, silent treatment, sexual deprivation, hurt, end of life and a series of emotional and physical troubles such unmitigated domestic reaction cause.

Women are the major victims of domestic violence. Too afraid or ashamed to talk about it they live in hellish silence most of their lives. They react and while the tongue is stronger than the sword even the sword becomes worse than the words when ‘lashing out’ is all they know. Lives are lost. Children and parents suffer.

I know of men shelters that salvage men. In an American Stats out of100 domestic violence situations approximately 40 cases involve violence by women against men.

It’s hard to be a man. Men are more sensitive than women. There is some truth to this.

However, my appeal is for men to talk. Talk to your buddy. Talk to a friend. Talk to an Imam /Pastor/Pundit. Talk to the helpline or online helper.

The Caribbean men have been known to inherit the red herring of slavery and enslavement. It’s hard for them to open up to their hurts, share their innermost feelings and love unconditionally.

To rally around non toxic friends is crucial. It’s better to separate than live in misery. The pursuit of happiness is the inalienable right of every human.

I have seen the lost of closed ones because the husband could not take it anymore. I have sat with men serving time because it was too much to bear. I have walked and prayed with brothers who are broken and making bad choices daily. My meagre spiritual path allows me entry to some very private but gruesome life stories. I spoke at an International Conference on Chaplaincy recently reminding the caregivers of the hopeless that the God of Hope is who we serve.

There must be a way. In Guyana the drinking houses have served as the default men-therapy-clinic for a long time. But that itself needs therapy. The ERC and others must call on the government to fund hotlines and social workers to help men to men up! A National hotline with text and online chat should be advertised as this is very important. I have seen active listening telephone therapy saved thousands in North America.

I think a workshop series training religious leaders to deal with this is crucial as they are among the first go-to-persons in cases of social breakdown. But how equipped are they?

Prayers and practical steps can do wonders but only if willingness and courage are their hang-out buddies!
“Domestic violence damages the prospects for economic and social development of every country, not just the lives of the victims” (CAFRA).

Quran 7:199 "Hold to forgiveness; command what is right; But turn away from the ignorant."

Yours truly,

Habeeb Alli

Father's day- some thing thoughtful!

2011-06-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

June is remembered as Enmore Martyrs day in Guyana. It’s also Father’s day. The sacrifice fathers endure on behalf of their children is no less than the martyrdom the five Enmoreans underwent on behalf of their country in the fight against imperialism. It’s as significant and civilly acceptable as the Arab Spring presently demonstrates, albeit some peculiar cases.

I hope that in the wake of continued battle for the electorate’s support we don’t miss the essence of this critical aspect of our history. Just as Walter Rodney and others were gifted historical eminence in this month, many years ago, leaving a light of hope against tyranny, the words of Asma Mahfooz of Egypt resonate similar platitudes of hope. ‘That if I should think there is no hope there will be no hope but if I should take a stand there will be hope.’

Yes, I can! The embryo of Faith is hope. Hope that one day the wicked will be brought to justice. The hope that one day the single father will be repaid. The hope that hope will keep up in order to repair the wrong, to love the unloved and to seek reconciliation among the conflicted.

This month internationally is also Restorative Justice. Reading about the inadequacies in the prison system reminds us that this concept of restoring balance in real justice is so much needed. This system affords many victims and offenders to discuss what happened rather than why it happened and to seek ways to repair the damage and ask for forgiveness.

I met a man at a conference in Peterborough, ON, Canada recently who spoke about his journey of forgiveness. He left home when he was a teenager because he could no longer take the incessant and cruel beatings of his father and thereby the lack of focus on school. He subsequently spent most of his life in the streets and in the pen. One day he received a call from his mother saying his father died. He was most disappointed; not that he died but he did not hear ‘I’m sorry’ from the man who birthed him but failed him. He was hurting from an abusive father. He lived out that abuse and not until recently was he able to forgive his own father.

The act of restorative justice education gained him that insight that when you forgive your perpetrator you relieve your soul of a lifetime burden.

This is the story that may apply to many. Among the endless list are pain from betrayal; the hurt of physical and sexual abuse; the innocent sentencing; the wrongful shooting of alleged criminality; the sold out of voters’ trust, etc. While God has not given up on us by sending new babies everyday we seem to give up on man by judging each other daily.

The bouquet of appreciation that father’s may truly respect is respect for their feelings and their legacy. Regardless of how bad a father he is, he is still the source of one’s birth. Regardless of how much one tries to be the best nurturer and friend of ones’ child there will always be one who is better and more successful than you. Therefore it’s the sincerity that counts; that you are a father because of God’s command. You love your father because that is the rightful divine thing to do. Thank you God, for my father! Thanks Mom for my father!

In conclusion I take lessons from Prophet Jacob as a remarkable father of Biblical and Quranic reference. When Jacob lost his son Joseph/Yusuf he cried for forty years. Yes men do cry! He wallowed in grieve over his missed and beloved little Joseph more than you can think. The worse is he knew intuitively that jealousy of his sons caused him this lost. However, after a life time there was reconciliation. Joseph forgave his brothers and rejoined them with his father!

Like father like son! Is that what most fathers want? Is that what most sons and daughters remember about their daddies? What’s your legacy is yours; no matter how meagre it may seem it’s still yours.

Quran 17:23 Thy Lord hath decreed that you worship none but Him, and that you be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour.

Parenting- how to balance restrictions and trust.

2011-06-02T10:07:00.001-07:00

Parenting- how to balance restrictions and trust.

Parenting is not a new concept but it seems odd to many that a person can have a PHd in parenting these days. Given the importance of training one’s children properly, both for the secular world as well as the needs of an Islamic personality then learning about parenting becomes essential. But who knows better?

The famous adage that it takes a village to raise a child holds true. Many parents these days will tell you that for them to enjoy some good positive characteristics they display today are because of some tough love their parents and their neighbours imparted. While I don’t condone beating it’s not hidden that physical discipline was part of the routine!

Nowadays children are more open to society. As much as they know the rules of good behaviours and haram activities they are challenged by friends to cross those limits.

The Quran reminds us that parents have a trust when it comes to raising their children. It also reminds us that crossing those boundaries is a transgression in the eyes of Allah.

8:28 And know ye that your possessions and your progeny are but a trial; and that it is Allah with Whom lies your highest reward.

How do you ensure a balance.

2:187 Those are Limits (set by) Allah. Approach not nigh thereto. Thus doth Allah make clear His Signs to men: that they may learn self-restraint.

I conduct a weekly session with youths and issues. Our open talk and non judgmental attitude makes them ask the most intimate questions and allows others to debate the pros and cons. Sometimes it’s the listening that matters most than the reminder or the lecture.

The story of the youths during pre-Islamic period of Bani Israel is very telling. These were boys who were full at their game but were more conscious than many pious souls today. They believed in Allah and rejected the idol worship of the present day King. The result was devastating. It’s like what’s happening in the Arab Spring right now. They resisted through peaceful means. This is the concept that freed India from the clutches of British colonialism and was expounded by no other than Mahatma Gandhi- a student of Prophet Muhammad, on whom be peace.

Those in the above mentioned verse were believing youths of Bani Israel who took refuge in a cave and was followed by a dog. Later awoken to find they were hungry. After sending one of their companions to buy bread the others fell asleep again for good. The shop keeper realised that this coin is from that era some three hundred years go when the King reigned over the Believers. He was now living in a time where the Kind believed in God and the people didn’t. He so badly needed a proof. So the story of seven sleepers and the cave became his living proof that there is life after death and there is a living God!

18:13 We relate to thee their story in truth: they were youths who believed in their Lord, and We advanced them in guidance:

The vast majority of Muslims are youths- some 65% and parents must understand that children grow soon around age 12 to have a sense of autonomy and that is where being their friend is more important than being their boss! I met someone who said that her father told her after thirty years that he was wrong not to trust her judgement as to who to fall in love with. She suffered immensely because of his misjudgement!

This balance between trust and restriction is vital in training students and nurturing one’s children.

It’s the concept of Taqwa that the Quran refers to. Where you are conscious of Allah wherever you are, without need to feel you are policed constantly or having to report hour by hour! Inmates out on parole have to do that and even so they report maybe twice a week or are traced electronically but they are free to work, school and travel within certain boundaries and timings every day.

2:197 Whatever good ye do, (be sure) Allah knoweth it. And take a provision (With you) for the journey, but the best of provisions is right conduct. So fear Me, o ye that are wise.

The fundamental consciousness of morality and values is ingrained into a child’s psyche like a stone carved and ingrained from inception. Rain and sunshine, wind and snow do not destroy those writings. That is why until today we can read and understand hieroglyphics. Once a person knows how to swim or cycle they do not forget. I have met so many people who learnt Islam in childhood from their parents or from the madressa and then left Islam. However, at a later stage in life when they realised they need to go back to their roots and return to Allah these teachings were there to assist them. They did not forget the prayers or mannerisms and they talked proudly of the values and even defended those teachings in some of the most unbecoming places. I met one person such who lived in a foster home and then a half way house and later he lived in a shelter but throughout that time he recite sura fatiha and remembers how to make wudu. I recently read of man who was on the streets homeless. He had to share a sandwich one day with his partner. It was the last pennies available to get a meal. However, when he realised the sandwich was not a veggie burger but a bacon meal he refused his half. This act of self preservation even in such dire straits made is non-Muslim partner think about it for years after and this lead him into accepting Islam, when he became settled and successful in life. So the noor and light that Allah places in one’s heart out of Iman and Faith is dynamic. It lives through battles but nothing extinguishes it. This is the self responsibility I tell clients about, parents and students to hold true and young lovers to abide by.

9:32 Fain would they extinguish Allah's light with their mouths, but Allah will not allow but that His light should be perfected, even though the Unbelievers may detest (it).

Placing curfew timings on teenagers, placing passwords on computers and leaving computers in the open hall while checking cell phone bills and a host of other disciplinary restrictions do help. The fear of the law, the worry of traffic laws and the scare of police patrols all help to make people stay in line. But stricter the government smarter the population. If you will not allow for hiccups and violations there will be no need for courts, prisons and lawyers! Life is not a straight road. There are five fingers to the every hand. So God allows for these mistakes because he wants to forgive us. He wants to teach us forgiveness he wants to let us know what it means to love and hurt, be good and bad and what it means to be close to Him and far.

3:135 And those who, having done something to be ashamed of, or wronged their own souls, earnestly bring Allah to mind, and ask for forgiveness for their sins,- and who can forgive sins except Allah.- and are never obstinate in persisting knowingly in (the wrong) they have done.

I have seen men cry in prison and women weep in the pen. Why? One can repent anywhere. The heart can be touched anywhere and anytime. But penance and repentance is the objective of having a penitentiary. Here is where reflection and resolution happens. So don’t judge those that make mistakes. They have a life and heart too. And Allah is there for every one.

I was asked by one student about going out to his friends’ birthday party. His parents don’t want him to. He knows he will not drink alcohol and he knows that other parents will be there too. The views in my class differed immensely. It made me think that in life there is not one rule for every situation and not all Muslims think alike. It’s about self control and trusting your child now so that when he or she is way from you studying or living alone they will do the right thing. I wonder sometimes at parents who ask that I help finding a girl or boy for their grown ups. But these very parents while praising the beauty and character of their children will not allow them to see a potential suitor in public by themselves. They would not trust them to talk to someone equally conscious and self confident! This is the lack of balance.

24:62 Only those are believers, who believe in Allah and His Messenger. when they are with him on a matter requiring collective action, they do not depart until they have asked for his leave; those who ask for thy leave are those who believe in Allah and His Messenger. so when they ask for thy leave, for some business of theirs, give leave to those of them whom thou wilt, and ask Allah for their forgiveness: for Allah is Oft- Forgiving, Most Merciful.

There is no doubt that the environment is infectious and poisonous and these days it’s not physical but mental thanks to the internet access everywhere and rebellious thoughts. However, a person can be in Mecca and do bad things and a person can be in Georgetown and do pious things. It’s the matter of creating positive activities, alternative programs and cultures that answer to the social and entertainment values of our youths that is crucial. Whether these are educational debates or social networking events, excursions and or concerts of nasheeds they need to constantly create alternative so the boredom so much available in our youths is not exploited by evil doers. The power of the youth is immense- they made up a third of the Companions and they are the leaders of tomorrow. They can be trusted with the freedom to think and the power of faith or left to the dungeons of restrictions and fear only to suffer their self worth and self growth in the process. As Umar bin Khattab used to say I fear the person’s Islam who don’t experience Jahilliya! And as Khalil Gibran rightly put it you made them but not their minds! So trust in Allah and check on them!

Love in Islam

2011-05-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

Love and Islam
Two words
one meaning
Not to war but give willing

But too bad
Many believe Islam
Is violence
To kiss with flowers haram

Too bad
The media tells us tales
Where women suffer
As kitchen brides or honor killing slaves

But my dearest
Love is what makes
The honey sweet
The birds sing

It's the absence of love
That put Satan forever
in hellish kiln

With love the bamboo becomes
a harp
With love angels
Convert warriors like chocolate tart
And the frog becomes the prince, not a you tube star

When a kiss is sent
When awink is given
And a hand is held
Allah's grace joins those hearts without fear of loss

Like for many, a journey starts
No one choses the partner in thought
It happens, everyone has a story
But not everyone gets to finish together in glory

So trust in happiness
Over look the falws, know Allah alone is perfect
Praise her beauty and understand his ways
Love will your thirst quench to live another day.

Jews extend Quran to Muslims

2011-05-02T10:43:00.002-07:00

Jews extend Quran to Muslims
by Habeeb Alli

Toronto, Canada – I’m thrilled again this week to be part of history – while someone burns the Quran in the United States, another gifts us a Quran in an expression of solidarity. I told this to my congregation during this week’s Friday service and they were all so moved by the gesture.

For the eighth year, an exercise of interfaith exchange between Jews, Muslims and Christians in Ontario has progressed in good faith – and the gift of the Qur’an was this year’s highlight. The Abraham Festival in Peterborough originated on the premise that all three faiths have a common heritage and that needs to be explored and shared. Walking through the symbolic tent of Abraham in order to enter the St. Andrew's United Church gave attendees the sense that history can be relived, even in a modern day setting.

A Jewish partner, facilitator and doctor, who has been keen in bringing the three faiths together in Peterborough, Dr Dan Houpt, presented the Qur’an. He suggested the idea to his Muslim counterpart and co-founder Elizabeth Rahman, who consulted with the Canadian Council of Imams. Rahman is a convert from UK and has been active in the community ever since the 1970s, with her late Indian husband.

The Muslims Students Association at the nearby Trent University hosted the Friday service, on the first day of the festival, this year, in order for Christian and Jewish neighbours could observe the gifting of the Qur’an. Houpt offered some thoughts on the gift, stating , "It shows we stand with them in solidarity." He added, "And it shows it's a terrible act to burn a holy book."

I offered my gratitude and reminded the audience of about 80 people from the three faiths, that it is a tribute well received on behalf of all Muslims and that the desecration of any holy book is an attack on all Holy Scriptures. I also reminded them that this is in line with a historic Islamic tradition when the Moorish Averroes, Jewish Maimonides and Christian Thomas Aquinas learnt from each other in the twelfth century Spain of which even John Paul II recognized.

This year’s theme of the Abraham Festival was on forgiveness. Many facilitators were present to share what their faith offered on the subject of forgiving others. As I mentioned in my speech, "Forgiveness is an interesting topic because you often need it for people you love the most. The person you love the most can hurt you the most. And forgiveness lightens the burden."

The presentation of the Holy Quran to Muslims by the local Jewish community was a way to show goodwill and remove any misunderstanding and hurt Muslims may have experienced in today’s unfortunate atmosphere of Islamophobia – something Jews can relate to given their long years of dealing with anti-Semitism.

I also told them that recently a group of Jewish people had donated money and time to build a mosque Toronto. This Peace Mosque project will soon be aired as a TV series. TV Producer Kenny Hotz will highlight this daring project in his documentary to be showed on Showcase Television this Spring. This may be seen as another event in the now world famous annual Twinning of Mosques and Synagogues.

Mrs. Rahman was recognised during the event and I handed the Holy Quran, with a card of appreciation, to be kept by her and used during her tours to the schools, prisons, etc. The Muslims are overwhelmed by this token of solidarity and are thankful wherever they are for such is the tradition of Abraham.

*Habeeb Alli is a freelance writer for the Ambition, scholar on www.allexperts.com and author of twelve books on Islam.

april

2011-05-02T10:43:00.001-07:00

NAMF held its 10th annual speech competition

NAMF held its 10th annual speech competition last Saturday April 16th at its Scarborough location. Students hailed from around GTA and Junior and Senior schools. The topic this year was on Canadian Values- what does it mean to you? Students did an amazing job as usual with their powerful rhetoric reminding the packed audience that the Quran and Hadith offers us lots of support when we promote Canadian values such as tolerance, respect, freedom, democracy, family-life, etc Among the special speakers were Aziza Magazine Chief Editor Tayyiba Taylor who is a world renown speaker. She spoke eloquently about her conversion story and reminded the community of their commitment to have programs in place in the masjid to educate new converts about Islam. MPP Margaret Best, Minister of Health Promotion lauded the brave youngsters and reminded the attentive audience of mixed backgrounds that Canada is proud of its multi cultural heritage. Habeeb Alli conducted the fundraiser after a brief report by the Executive Director of NAMF Mr Farouk Khan. There were prizes for the six winners and door prizes, thanks to the generous sponsorship of the community businesses. The best was not only the tasty and adequate Pakistani cuisine that evening but rather MC Jake Dheer- the Rogers TV host- who entertained throughout with his witty style and amicable introductions. They truly all inspired us and the world to make us proud Canadian Muslims.

March reports

2011-04-05T10:17:00.000-07:00

Reports March

ISARC hosts meeting to fight poverty.

Are you aware that almost 400 000 Ontarians live off the food bank?
For the last 25 years interfaith leaders have been lobbying the Ontario government to make a difference. Members of this group, of which Muslims are a part of, have been meeting and making poverty audits to parliamentarians. They have fought to have poverty indexed steeply in the budget. The new book just published by Brice Balmer, Persistent Poverty, provided lots of stats and stories and is being gifted to many politicians and leaders and media pundits. Michael Skalgin is the newly appointed Executive Director. He is Budhist by faith.
The Interfaith Leaders advocated to have the political leaders in Ottawa meet their promises of the Millennium Development Goals met in Ottawa early March. ISARC was in attendance and the Imam Ziyad Delic represented the Canadian Council of Imams. The Council is deeply concerned about the poverty issue and the environment among others.
www.isarc.ca

What about Arab offenders leaving prison?

The Arab Community Centre in Etobicoke recently convened an important session with Corrections Services Canada and chaplains to talk about reintegration after imprisonment.
Among the presenters were Yassin Dwyer, Senior Chaplain for Muslims in Kingston and Habeeb Alli, Secretary of the Canadian Council of Imams. Among the points highlighted were the need to have education about being moderate and the need to have employment and social support that speaks to the cultural sensitivity of the community. Many thought that there need to be space that is safe, religiously sensitive and open to help offenders reintegrate successfully.

Horizon TV show

Rev Earl smith has invited Habeeb Alli, Secretary of Canadian Council of Imams to appear on the Rogers TV show for Interfaith twice. He says this show has been going on for the past 20 eyras and there is lesser involvement from Muslims. It started when faith communities requested air time from several providers. Rogers has remained committed to giving time throughout the year every Sat for half an hour. The topics discussed were domestic violence and trauma. Dr Nyla Butt of Social Services Network presented on a cultural perspective on domestic violence- an alarming issue in the community.
Domestic violence s love that kills and Islam is about love and not killing. People should report to the authorities and seek help immediately. As for trauma again it’s a depression sickness that needs attention and should not be left to just some spiritual things or hawks.

National Muslim Christian Liaison Committee meets again.

Interfaith has become a daily recipe for many faith communities. Leaders are constantly called these days to present on their faith and a contemporary issue. However, who would have thought that 25 years ago the seed of interfaith was planted among Christians and Muslims in Toronto. The national organisations of Catholics and Anglicans sat with Muslims of a National order to discuss ways and means of cooperation.
They have over the years met and death with many issues including the Iraq war and attack on Coptic in Egypt.
While Muslims have been lacking in attendance there was revival meeting recently at the Catholic Church Headquarters and many Muslims attended. The Canadian Islamic Congress, the Canadian Council of Muslim Women and the Canadian Council Imams.
The meeting is scheduled to be thrice a year and will continue to focus on recognising leaders in interfaith and provide an umbrella presence of the interfaith work done on the ground. The website will soon be expanded.
http://interreligion.mafr.net/paliers_dialogue_national.html

Moeen centre opens its door for all

Persons with disabilities and being Muslim is a double whammy. It’s more complicated when you don’t have the funding. Recently Moeen Centre hosted a Milad program with speakers, songs and food in order to bring awareness about the plight of those with disabilities and the programs they offer at their office site daily in Scarborough. Many years ago Sis Qaiser Alam started this project when she lost her son to a fire. He was a child of disability. Today she is committed with a board of directors to make a difference.
The speakers included Dr Hamid Slimi who spoke on the Prophet and disabilities, Habeeb Alli who spoke on Citizenship and Sunnah and Rasheed Carter who presented on the importance of Sunnah in Canada. It was a warm Sunday evening and across the city the Canadian Association of Muslims with Disabilities were having their gala. Imam Zaid Shakir and Abdulla Idris were in the house at Candles Banquet hall inviting towards the same – support these initiatives that provide classes for the deaf and blind and help those who have so many disabilities. Actually one prominent Muslim activist at the Islamic Foundation of Toronto was recently appointed chair for the Para Olympics- Waris Malik will be taking these brave men and women, boys and girls who are developmentally challenged to Greece this summer to challenge the world on track and field!

www.moeencentre.ca
www.cam-d.ca
chair@specialolympicstoronto.com

Canadian Council Imams

Imams meet from around Toronto every month to discus many issues affecting the community, interfaith, halal, government, police- hijab uniform, representing Muslims in the media, etc. Membership is from across the country but mostly GTA Imams meet on the second Monday of the month at a chosen mosque. Sayyeda Khatija Centre in Mississauga was the last host and Imam Slimi is the Chair.

There is an amazing declaration on the website.

www.canadiancouncilofimams.com

Umar Habib visits

A popular scholar from Yemen visited Toronto and spoke in many mosques with huge turn outs. Nazim Baksh organised some wonderful programs on some interesting topics.

I met the Shaikh at the Islamic Foundation and was impressed with his talk abut the Japan Earthquake among other things. Many masjids have made appeals for this disaster. The Scholar came from a lineage of scholars and has actually visited the known Ulama of India like Abul Hassan Nadvi.

He made an impression in Toronto.

UFT MSA hosts presentation on Black history

Students were delightfully treated to a presentation on Muslim perspective on Black History recently at their weekly halqa held in Bahen Centre by Yusuf Badat. This time Habeeb Alli was the guest speaker and he spoke on the many contributions Muslims of West Africa made, the Moors of Spain and the history of Slaves in the Caribbean.

This topic was presented throughout February in various places. The Clarington Mosque in Courtice is newly purchased Church. Members meet once a month for a potluck dinner and a presentation. Shaikh talked about his to Muslims since it connects them with the Black community and helps them relate better. Besides Canada was home for many Blacks slaves who were Muslims. Look at Harriet Tubman and her Hijab- she was called the little Moses during the Underground Railroad!
The students at UFT MSA offered to fundraise for the Japan earthquake and they have partnered with NAMF on this.

http://www.islamiccentreofclarington.org/
http://www.uoftmsa.com/

MIST sports day

I have attended many Muslim events. But one Friday afternoon at a large sports centre in Scarborough was the best. Muslim youths of all backgrounds, boys and girls, competing with love, respect and valour on many sporting activities. MIST aims at providing this safe space for Muslim youths. Moin Hamza is the man behind this and it was nice to see so many leaders and parents involved. For the past four years this event has grown and has awarded many participants with meaningful awards not only in sports but public speaking and outreach. They are an amazing bunch!

www.mist.ca

David Suzuki supports Muslim scouts

Dawood Zwink is also David. He heads the Muslim Scouts in Toronto. But David Suzuki is not a mere coincidence to him. They both share aboriginal nuances and scouting history. So Toronto made history having the famous 75 years old environmentalist veteran attend an event in Richmond Hill meant to raise awareness for Muslim scouting. With so many issues with youths in the community scouting is definitely needed. Many who attended the event felt their money worth for listening to David Suzuki speak with intelligence, care and experience.

http://iqra.ca/?p=5049

ANTI Drugs campaign – help from Faith

Scientology held their founders birthday L Ron Hubbard 1911 at the Metro Convention Centre. He gave the world a strong sense of spirituality away from materialism coming from a Christian tradition mixed with eastern philosophy. But what strikes me most is his work with drug addicts and people of depression and violence. His work has helped thousands see a meaningful life and the school board and police in Toronto have been working closely to distribute these booklets that help youths make a meaningful choice in the face of drugs and suicide.
A page we can take. They have an interfaith perspective to life.
Rev Earl Smith and Pat have been friends of the Muslims for years and have helped many Muslims off the streets.

http://www.scientology.org/

JamiatulUlama held meeting Madina Masjid

The members of the JamiatulUlama meet every month to discuss issues of halal monitoring, fatwa questions and cases of fasakh and divorce. They held their meeting at the now beautifully finished Madina masjid. The hospitality here was amazing and the group of scholars in attendance have grown over the years to help Canadian Muslims deal with their many religious problems meaning fully.
http://www.jucanada.org/

Professor Mishka Lysack visits Imams

Working on the Green project for years, it has been a challenge to get mosque leaders to come on board. Imams may know about greening the mosque in Islam but to get it done is another thing. Recently Prof Mishka from Calgary has been visiting Toronto. He met with Habeeb Alli and ever since done several seminars, attended the NAMF Family fair and more recently met with leaders in Ottawa and Toronto. Bosnian Islamic Center hosted him in his presentation on Islam and the Environment and many imams attended and interacted meaningfully with him. The thrust now is to go for a Green Ramadan and anyone wishing for posters for their mosques and schools check www.greenkufi.ca

Habeeb presented on this topic with the Prof at the Redeemer Church retreat and the United Church seminar. Other Muslims were in attendance and Yusuf Badat of IFT also spoke at that seminar. It’s nice to see more Muslims involved in something that is a part of our Deen- we are Allah’s Khalifa and must take care of this trust!

TARIC mosques hosts Restorative Justice dinner.

Speaking with passion and jumping like a butterfly Saturday night was Spider Jones. No it wasn’t Muhammad Ali in the ring but it looks like. And this is not strange since Spider was the greatest boxer’s friend and ally. He now inspires thousands with his talk and books. He is phenomenal and Michael Taylor couldn’t find a better speaker to motivate Muslims to act on behalf of the men and women incarcerated than Spider. Among others were Abulhai Patel President of the Ontario Multifaith Council that over sees this project of Restorative Justice in partnership with Justice Canada. The aim is to provide alternative dispute resolution for Muslim offenders and their victims. The funding is needed to keep these programs running and help facilitate well trained and professional chaplains like Michael and others. It’s time the community act before it’s too late!
The attendance was fair and the food was excellent and no other than the legendary Adnan Sirajudden was on show with Ibrahim Shallaby doing his unique Art exhibition!

www.omc.ca

Mufti Abdurrahman visits Toronto

Students and scholars attended a two day seminar on Beliefs in Islam. This may sound simple but for many this was a refresher course. The Zulfa Academy hosted the program at Imdadul mosque and those who attended felt accomplished. Mufti AbduRahman has written extensively on Islam and teaches in the UK after spending many years in California. He is one of those young vibrant Western Scholars in Islam that may look up top. His book on Hanifi Fiqh has been a best seller for years. Fiqh Sunnah.
Moulana Ahmed Ibrahim of Brampton Islamic Centre was his main host and organiser.
www.zulfa.org

Golden rule day April 5th

2011-04-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

Today is recognised as the Golden Rule day. Every day is the Golden Rule day. The way the universe works is simply Golden Rule by act and virtue.

However precious this is to me it is to you- that we live by the fact, without reference to one hundred alternative religious and philosophical Golden Rule statements: - that I will do unto others what I would love others to do to me.

So congrats to Mussie Hailu! He pioneered the Golden Rule poster in Ethiopia with Scarborough Missions and has ever since made it global.

It's a shame that world leaders need this reminder but hardly children. Have you seen how much fun children and seniors could be- just innocent laughter; they may hurt each other yet quickly say sorry and move on; because it’s just fun-filled living!

Be and let others be! The Ghandhian rule is live and let others or the traffic rules of give way safely so others may drive safely or political integrity requires giving credence to the action based profile and not the character-attack loud-speak:- all contribute to this rich mosaic of living the art of not hurting others.

The famous Rabbi who announced his faith in the sound bite of not harming others and the rest is commentary so study it, is as good as the elevator ride message of the Imam who announces Islam is living peacefully not living in pieces and folly!

So with the environment live so others may live and with love make it the best and not fight over silly things and with world religions blasphemy of one is desecration of all and with geopolitics supporting tyranny is allowing your own to be oppressed. The list goes on! Mother Nature always has the golden rule as number one! So when disasters strike it’s not God’s wrath and human sin clashing but nature of things- just as you would not liked to be judged in such a situation think the same for the victims of nature’s unfortunate victims. When you retaliate with human lives and burning of your own scriptures you violate the Golden rule of Islam- Do not blaspheme the religions of others because of their attack on yours. Quran 6:108

What you like on Facebook or what you enjoy on the telephone must carry that intrinsic element that that the other side of the world may happily enjoy and if they chose not to, that too is their right- the reciprocal right not to be offended because in the end there is no police to the heart and no judge to the mind and no priest to the words nor jury to our actions but you and your God! No one goes to the grave with you!

As one would say what would be would be and yet the power of now is usually robbed by the instinct to control and be in control some how. The Golden Rule for that would be- do you like to be controlled so why fight to control others? Do you want to enjoy life? So how about love for your self what you love for your brothers!

I remember, working with the accomplished Peace Activist Tina Petrova on the The Golden Rule movie, and having promoted her Rumi-Turning-Ecstatic movie before, saying that it’s the passion to make others feel belonged that is more important that trying to show how superior your faith is.

For me, that is the most powerful rule of living and Islam stands for making you feel ‘You’!

Islamise Civilization

2011-02-17T11:53:00.000-08:00

The compass
The astrolabe
the Al-hambra
Or magnificent Taj Mahal

A thousand years
Thousands of gardens
Islamic civilization
Networked India to Spain and beyond

In celebrating that past
At the ROM we gather
Marvelling at such wonder
But no my child you too could make us proud

Avicenna and his medicine
Zero and the computer
Ibn Firnas and the first flying machine
Even NASA have many such Quran inspired heroines

So let not the dream be broken
Let the world not be surrounded
But by minds deeply reflective
Filled by faith and wisdom, you'll someday stand great!

Environmental Islam

2011-02-17T11:44:00.000-08:00

Beautiful foliage
Deep blue sea
A raining sky
Sunshine out on its hue

Then the ice breaks
The floods unstoppable
Lakes drying
Children dying from corporate poverty

They ask what can I do?
Does Islam say destroy where you inhabit?
With your plastic rosarys and bottles of blessed water
Do you think you can pray and sit idly?

Muhammad on whom be peace was a Greenie
He said conserve water even when washing in a stream
And the food of two is enough for four
He repminded every sermon- oh trustees of Allah on earth

So when they tell you
Your petrol and religion make us suffer
Remember every act of saving the planet
Is a deed counted, not a carbon credit, in the Herafter

Do your part
Every recycling, every letter writing
Every act of compassion
Makes a deed grow on the tree of spiritual climbing.

Love is all it takes

2011-02-17T11:35:00.000-08:00

Going to bed
Dreaming about things
Waking up
To an empty morning

The hope of love
The magic Faith promises
You await the meeting
Your life stands still

When love is all that matters
Then faults go blind
Life has meaning
And God's promise of Heaven can't be a lie

The Prophet says a person will be with the one they love
Yusuf met Zulaikha
Lost love found years after
You have to have faith

Like the bird that feels the light before dawn
And sings in the night sweet melodies
As Rumi says rightfully
Walk away, to find love, from the prison of time

Pakarima Writers Bash 5 years!

2011-02-17T11:28:00.000-08:00

Pakaraima after five years
Celebrating at the Secretary's palace
Remember our firt coffee
On the cold Saturday thanks to Danny's generosity

At festivals, at parties
Reading poetry, launching books
Sometimes meeting at homes
Never forget the bara, timmies and absenteeism

Look how we have grown
Not only writers and artists, poets and business people
But even a Trini and lots of beautiful sparks
Giving rise to talent hidden and unrealised

Pakaraima is a legend
The South American mountain range strecthed to Toronto
No snow, no highway
Will stop Pakaraima family from the show

And if you don't know
The hard work of some few,
The mothering by others
Make the love flow at Pakaraimawriters.org

Muhammad’s Twelve Roses, On Whom Be Peace.

2011-02-07T12:46:00.001-08:00

Muhammad’s Twelve Roses, On Whom Be Peace.

As we celebrate love with varying genres in different cultures, I take this opportunity to greet you with Love and ask to indulge in a different narrative about Valentine.

The bravery of Valentine to have loved and then die makes the martyrdom for love life-giving. This has provided a romantic opportunity to rekindle the thought that you do love someone special.

This year coincided with the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad- the world’s most loving and merciful man. It makes me want to reflect on His Roses. Being an orphan and being poor did not prevent him from growing up with the glowing qualities of love, affection and intimacy.

His First Rose was Khatija. He loved her despite her huge age difference. The fact that there is no age when it comes to love is Prophetic! Their flower bore four fruits together.

The Second Rose is his dedication. He only remarried after her death and had multiple marriages after her but would still send gifts to her friends! The Rose of being open to one’s partner’s friends and treating them well is such a modern concept, yet was practiced by this desert dweller 1400 years ago.

Third Rose was belief in love. He said to Owais who loved him so much but couldn’t see him in his lifetime, since he was aiding his own ailing mother, that, a person will be with the one they love! Yes, the fact that karma brings soul mates together and in the Next World that’s a given is Prophetic.

The Fourth Rose is his love for Aisha was so overwhelming that He used to pray Oh God, don’t hold me accountable for that which I have no control over i.e. being in love with Aisha.

Fifth Rose was the fact that he would recite love poems with Aisha, run races with her and give her gifts besides kissing her even before going to the prayers, shows he was a man of cloth and heart!

Sixth Rose of Muhammad was the way he treated women. They were buried alive and seen as a liability to society. He saved over three hundred in his time and stopped this malpractice through the Quranic verse ‘when the innocent girl will be asked what crime had she committed to be buried alive’!

His Seventh Rose in the garden of love is his defending marriage. It is by virtue of choice and not valid when forced upon. When the young girl complained that she was married off by her father without her consent, The Prophet offered her the choice of staying or leaving!

Rose Eight is the fact that togetherness is not a computerized assessment but an inner connectivity. He announced through the Quran that marry women that pleases you! He founded the compatibility factor!

The Prophetic Ninth Rose was his charming aura: whomsoever he met he was so warm and respectful that a man who hated him so much, looked at him in the battle of Hunain and announced his Islam, saying: ‘you have become the most beloved person to me after glancing at your face’!

Rose Ten was his attitude towards love. He forgave and asked forgiveness repeatedly. He never hit a woman and always prayed for his mothers. His kindness to his wives was indelible, e.g. they all would cry for him consistently for almost a year after his demise and they didn’t remarry.

The Eleventh Rose was his knowing his lover and understanding her. He would say to Aisha that I know when you are pleased with me as you would say the Lord of Muhammad and when you are upset you would say the Lord of Abraham! In turn he would call her Aish, her pet name!

Rose Number Twelve in the bouquet of Muhammad’s Valentine to the world was his hatred for anger. Love is a coin whose two faces are hate and anger. He called men, who would abuse their wives, animals! He reminded the wives that your husband is either your Heaven or your Hell: depending on how you treat them.

Love is a special gift very few in the world get to experience. So don’t take it for granted. Nurture it with kindness, pray for its protection, sprinkle it with laughter and think of it as a snowflake- if you don’t capture it soon, the ground will make it muddy!

Yours truly,

Habeeb Alli

Love Matters

2010-12-15T10:29:00.000-08:00

Love is sweet
Love is true
Love is not new
But love can make you get blue

Love is right
Love is bright
Love is not dreadful
But love can make others hateful

Love is crazy
Love makes you dazy
Love is cautious
But love is not for the jealous

Love is a thought
Love is not bought
Love is for everyone
But love is not just for anyone

Remberance Day!

2010-11-11T10:35:00.001-08:00

Remberance Day!

This day of November we stand
Shoulders straight
Listening to the band
Wearing red poppies, relived from Flanders field

We declare
No more war
Enough of this inhumane sacrilege
Everywhere is war

This is the sunshine
Hearts yearn at
Babies cry for day and night
Widows look out from empty windows

When will soldiers return
Without loss of arms and feet
Without lost of hope
And belief in world peace

I want to know why you make more weapons
You make profit off my world of petty hatred
Do you like that your life be miserable
Find a way to make us send red flowers not bloody metals
Where sundown comes
But there is no stars even

So stop
Stop
Making human shields
Shields we're meant to be
From Satan not God's pleasure!

Lest we forget!

http://ccmt.jucanada.org/days_celebrations.aspx/days__celebrations/remembrance_day_islamic_viewpoint

Is Eidul Adha just about celebrating another Muslim holiday?

2010-10-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

Is Eidul Adha just about celebrating another Muslim holiday?

Who doesn’t like holiday? Especially when it’s a day off from school and work with pay! In Multicultural Canada almost every day can be a holiday and holy day. Well it seems as if we re still celebrating Eidulfitr with almost every weekend dinner is hosted even after a month. It’s about accommodating the different times families are available to gather and mosque can accommodate their neighbours without too much redundancy. Food and its delight are never too much but with having to pay for everything these days including prayers once definitely can do with break.

The next Muslim holiday on the calendar is Eidul Azha or commonly called Qurbani. It’s that time of the year that the Biblical/Quranic story of Abraham surfaces. He was willing to sacrifice his beloved son Ishmael in proof for his love for God. Until today Muslims around the world re-enact this solemn yet dynamic act of selfless sacrifice by offering slaughtered goats, cows and camels to the poor and needy. The Pilgrimage to Mecca ends with this colossal display of endless amounts of charitable meat ready to be shipped to poor African states and neighbours.

The Abraham story has another dimension. It speaks to the core value of every human desire to be loved and give love. Abraham loved his wife Hajar and his first born Ishmael a lot. But before he could possible be blessed with a child he had to continuously observe his allegiance to God and pray for this miracle at old infertile age. The son was born and now he had to choose after some years of adoration where his heart is- son or God? The end result of this true- dream-command is God kept his son and offered a lamb instead. How many of us do have a sacrificial lamb in our lives that veil the sincerity of devotion and obscure the sincerity of Divine service?

Around this time of the year Mosques and Synagogues are teaming up to talk with each other on their traditions and life challenges. It’s called the Twinning as if to remind us that Abraham’s two sons- Ishmael and Isaac were off springs of a man of peace and if history wasn’t distorted then it means we can unveil the ignorance with dialogues and a hot dinner!

The Hajj is a huge expense undertaken with passion and devotion. For many it’s a waste of finances better spent on local projects that makes a difference in the lives of many needy and more so in need of God’s guidance and our love. For many this is another retreat that reminds us of a relic called father Abraham who had left his dear son Ishmael in the desert of Arabia- called Mount Paran in the Bible- to the mercy of the vultures and his mother’s kindness. Later on a fountain was miraculously produced that save them both and became the oasis of Arabic civilization. On another note that lead to the establishment of the restored Kaba, whose visits acts as an expression to God and reminiscence of God’s historical acts of love-testing.

In the words of Gazali, the famous Middle Ages scholar, this was alive to the fact that love was the genuine need of a sensitive human being which he was always seeking to satisfy. The House of Ka'aba (at Mecca) and all the Landmarks of Allah that are associated with it and the Hajj with the rites and formalities which go to make it contain an ideal provision for the gratification of this basic human urge and necessity.

According to Dr Imam Abdul Hai Patel, “Hajj is a Fard on those who have the financial capacity. It is a dream of every Muslim to go for Hajj, once they attain the this capacity, otherwise he/she will be answerable on the day of Judgment, and in spite of the high cost today, Muslim's dream and obsession for fulfilling an obligation remains unchallenged.” This is the spirit that Eidul Azha emanates after thousands of years it still remains undaunted, recession or not.

Apart from the lessons of harmonious relations ingrained in the teachings of Eidul Azha and the mighty spiritual experience it brings at Hajj there is another salient element that most people partake in. That’s the willingness to donate a part of their earnings to buying animals fit for slaughtering and distributing the meat to the poor and needy. While some actually do it at their farms or through their local meat shops, the way it’s done in Toronto is to have the money donated to a charity who sends it abroad to relevant places to have the act completed on their behalf and the needy in that area benefits. Many are now realising that we do have thousands of families living in poverty in Toronto and charity begins here. Local charities would accept their donations and arrange the sacrifice at a local farm and then have the meat delivered to local food banks after the proper procedures. People are deeply indebted for this and one such food bank is the Yonge Street Mission that anxiously awaits the delivery of the wonderful halal meat for their many Muslim recipients. It’s a blessing they say to finally discovering this route to serve their growing Muslim community.

Happy Eid ul Azha and may the good thoughts of being friendly to all be imbued while undertaking the simplest of sacrifice by donating towards the poor be done sincerely and the prayers be sound at Hajj on behalf of all- Here I am for your service, accept me Oh God Almighty!

Thanks Giving poem

A time to reflect

On the many gifts

God has us bless

Especially being in Canada

Second largest country

With best standard of living

Offering respect for diversity

And lots of security

Thanking God is an everyday affair

Sometimes special time is needed

To sit and have a meal

And laugh and pray to some things unique

Like finding love

In the mayhem of irrational thoughts

Like opening this mail

And finding joy in the craziness of the world

So Thank God, Thank Your Maker

With whatever way you chose

Remember the poor and needy

Remember being broken is worse than being hungry!

Its essential to have your turkey, halal, kosher

Not that you can't make massala curry or vege

But sometimes the original

Brings you closer to what being a pioneer felt like.

So Happy Thanks Giving

Thanking all for every thing

Thanks to our Lord

For whatever gifts every creation brings.

"If ye are grateful, I will add more (favors) unto you; but if ye show ingratitude, truly My punishment is terrible indeed." (Quran 14:7)

Islamic History month launched amidst controversy

For the third year Islamic history month is launched in Toronto at Queens park. Despite the recent furore over Executive Director of the host organisation, Canadian Islamic Congress, Dr Imam Ziyad Delic and his disinvite to speak in Ottawa at the defence department, people are continuing to rally around the importance to educating Canadians of this rich heritage. At the launch many MPPs spoke about the importance of this history and need to continue to educate despite the odds. The Hon Rob Oliphant recently joined others including the Council of Imams in denouncing the action of the Defence Minister and calls for more civil discourse on the issue of Canadian Muslims and their civic duty. Dr Abdullah Quick was the guest speaker and he spoke eloquently about the history of Islam in Spain, particularly pointing out the way water was brought into the Alhambra in flow with gravity faraway from the mountains and he cautioned that Islam recognise this duty and even mentioned that several world leaders recently said that this may be the 6th extinction as per a study done in South Africa.
The main guest speaker this year is a scientist specialising on Islam and the environment- Dr Mushtaq Siddiqui.
For more read www.islamichistorymonth.com

Queens town masjids fundraiser

For many Guyanese the Queenstown masjid in Georgetown is not a mere place Muslims pray in but is heritage building as it was built by indentured labourers over hundred years ago. The present new project to rebuild it while maintaining the relics is important to everyone including the grandchildren of the original builders- family of the late Major Abbas of Muslim Welfare Centre.
Recently many turned up to applaud the efforts of Guyanese Imams that served in Toronto and to listen to Qari Sadaqat Ali from Pakistan- world renown Qari as well as Moulana Sidiq Nasir- international scholar. The organisers did a wonderful job at the Chandni banquet hall raising more than 30,000 through an entertaining and not pressuring method. Special thanks to Sadro Usman and his team for putting on a sumptuous, entertaining and enlightening evening.

Muslims Award sixth award ceremony held in Ajax

It seems not long ago we were sitting in Gymnasium of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto, a mere hundred or so for affordable ticket in the presence of the Police Chief and others to recognise the efforts of our brave men and women serving the community of Toronto.

After six years and moving from elegant banquet halls to more elegant ones this Sunday we were treated to the stylish and pride-giving sixth annual appreciation dinner at the Ajax Convention Centre. Almost 650 attendees from all walks of life garlanding social services members locally and internationally for going the extra mile in ensuring those who are lesser fortunate have a smile.

In his speech the Hon Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, reminded the audience that it’s our duty to care for others and in so doing we’re fulfilling both civic and religious responsibly. Moulana Yusuf Badat, Imam of the Islamic Foundation, mentioned that’s it not social service but social responsibility. It’s a way of saying we appreciate what you do but we know only Allah can repay you fully. The cuisine was delicious and the entertainment was mild but all together networking with friends and making new ones was definitely a given. Among the many recipients was our dear friend Majid Ali- the man behind the action at Islamic soccer league, hot soup day, Muslims supporting cancer society and a host of things!

NAMF hosts Eid Dinner and Pakistan Flood report

The emotions run high at Eid. But this time it was not because friends and family were coming over but the images of needy ravished children in Pakistan was heart breaking.
Well NAMF being an NGO was working on the ground just after the flood just before Ramadan.

Doctors for Relief joined NAMF at their Pakistan based office and camps. They worked on children, setting up medical clinics and school packages, establishing water purification systems and distributing food supplies thanks to the generosity of many of you, including businesses, mosques, families and even children. Over 17 tonnes of food and supplies was shipped directly. But the money donated makes the most sense to getting it to the victims by virtue of ease and experience and avoiding hassles according Mr Farooq Khan, Executive Director. Dr Shahnaz Dar and Uzman Ahmad were among the doctors helping. Their experience was indeed deepening and their call is for more help and more professionals on the ground. The Hon Jim Karygiannis P.C.M.P, Scarborough was also on the trip and he made an impact on the audience by giving from his own pocket as the foundations continue to accept donations on behalf of the victims. He said he saw the biggest destruction in living history, after travelling to many disaster areas in the world and it will take years before recovery.

The Eid dinner was nice but nicer was the fact that even during such times people do care for the poor and needy.

Muslims who vote are observing an act of worship.

2010-10-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

Muslims who vote are observing an act of worship.

We have to respect the fact that Canada is a gift for both its citizens and the world as it offers a unique model of democracy that is absent or fought for in many places in the world. While nothing is perfect it’s an amazing experiment of success that stands apart in the world of corruption and buying of votes.

Hence when Muslims deny the duty to vote and play politics of back stabbing each other, while calling towards one's religion or ethnic background they are playing into the very devil that chose to divide the Umma upon the demise of the Holy Prophet, on whom be peace. People wanted the Caliph to be on their tribal lines, family ties and friendship basis. The decision to finally choose the Caliph Abu Bakr, may Allah be please with him, was on virtue, wisdom, experience, leadership, piety, and character, that were placed in front of the Companions and their response became unanimous despite the initial divide. Like block voting or coalition votes!

This shows that we have a duty to speak from the mimbar/pulpit and its likes today, as Umar Bin Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, stood up and spoke out that day on behalf of not only the religion and its preservation but the preservation of life, property, dignity, justice and well being- the very values Islam and Canada share like canoes and Canadian lakes.

Are we remiss of the fact that it’s not about religion only that marks support of leadership when King Negus is praised before Islam for his justice and reliance to help Muslim refugees? Have we forgotten the fact that the Holy Prophet, on whom be peace, remarked if he was called again to join the League of Justice established before Islam in order to grant respite to poor Arabs he would respond and attend? Have we not realised that 75% of Muslims do not live in a Muslim majority country and even those that do are not governed completely by Islamic Laws? Then to show indifference in the name of religion is to lack the proper attitude towards religion of social cohesiveness and tradition of community participation.

For those who have bad experiences in their previous domicile they need to understand the transparency, supervision and meticulous care that was taken to build the present democratic machinery of Canada and must have faith in a system that provides security, livelihood and opportunities beyond comparison

So vote and be blessed and encourage others to do the same and get double reward- for whoever establishes a good deed gets the rewards of those that follow.

Voting is bearing shahadat or testimony on behalf of a candidate that you think in your best knowledge is best capable of the job at hand. To be a witness is an act of conscience and when the whole world tells you otherwise remember the Hadith says ask your conscience and follow your heart. So this is so much a freedom of expression that you are exercising and is so much compared to the verse-

2:283 And do not conceal what you have witnessed - for, verily, he who conceals it is sinful at heart; and God has full knowledge of all that you do.

and

2:256 Let there be no compulsion in religion.

Thank You!

Happy Thanksgiving-

2010-10-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone

http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=HY27482779

A time to reflect

On the many gifts

God has us bless

Especially being in Canada

Second largest country

With best standard of living

Offering respect for diversity

And lots of security

Thanking God is an everyday affair

Sometimes special time is needed

To sit and have a meal

And laugh and pray to some things unique

Like finding love

In the mayhem of irrational thoughts

Like opening this mail

And finding joy in the craziness of the world

So Thank God, Thank Your Maker

With whatever way you chose

Remember the poor and needy

Remember being broken is worse than being hungry!

Its essential to have your turkey,halal, kosher

Not that you can't make massala curry or vege

But sometimes the original

Brings you closer to what being a pioneer felt like.

So Happy Thanks Giving

Thanking all for every thing

Thanks to our Lord

For whatever gifts every creation brings.

"If ye are grateful, I will add more (favors) unto you; but if ye show ingratitude, truly My punishment is terrible indeed." (Quran 14:7)

http://www.dar-al-masnavi.org/thanksgiving.html

Poem on learning a new langauge and the lanaguage of love

2010-09-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

Learning a new language
Setting out on sea
The sail and waves
Words new to the tongue it seems

Arabic brings musical thoughts
The swing on great minds like a new love
Walking the sounds of new words
Making headway into a new world

Your every thought
Kills the yesterday memory
the return of those anxiety spells
Scares the daylight out of me

As much as your love is painful
It's real for feelings are the thermometer of the heart
Your every laughter, words and canter like a new dictionary
Envelope my passion into an impatient frenzy

Habeebe is the friendly lover in Arabic
Everyone should learn this ancient lingual lineage
That be spells poetry, music and scripture
Into a gallery of picturesque beauty whoever she speaks to.

Taqwacore: How to focus on God?

2010-09-16T08:58:00.000-07:00

Taqwacore: How to focus on God?

It seems these days that everyone is focusing on some kind of special sensation. Either, the green thing or simply yoga classes. Every now and then the motivational seminars will urge you to buy tickets because life without focus is plainly without success or meaning.

As with others, the season of Ramadan also implores in the minds of the many spiritual seekers the awe of Taqwa. Maybe like every other core and hard core element of media hype, Taqwa must be some kind of deep-seated core-thing that enters ones mind nohwistanding life. After all the Quran uses it not only as raison d’etre of fasting but almost 150 times calling for some kind of abstinence or protection in life’s complete matrix.

But God should be the focus. Where does He fit in a constant mindboggling, mind jammed atmosphere; where every tweeting unknown friend, radio broadcaster while on the road, tons of family barbeques plus hard wired in-love thought and the crack-berry et al compete for His minimal attention. Is he just a linger during prayers and lost during work?

According to Rumi the gnostic is the one who keeps the Zikr in his heart, and leaves behind the attachments of the lower worldly life as mentioned in Musnad Ahmad, "The people of Zikr are the people of My presence."

The brain is wired to grasp active spiritual engagements and not so sensitive to mere repetitions of words. Such rote belongs elsewhere but the centre of devotion. It’s great to know Islam offers zikr:- a version of lyrical mantra made in Arabic but yet so any language will do. And the language of the heart is indispensable when it comes to remembering God- a mere sigh is enough with Love according to the Throne Owner’s manual; whereas a clouded mind, isolated from the lip- synching ritual of saying thousands of rosary verses or lyrical chants is useless.

Quran 50:37 Verily in this is a Message for any that has a heart and understanding or who gives ear and earnestly witnesses (the truth).

Again this is a challenge unknown to angels and animals- how to engage the mind- the most powerful parachute of human existence into becoming the core value of ones Taqwa, that when God is called upon it’s not like your concierge or bellboy- He is the one you converse with everyday many times more than text-friends and cell-buddies because He is with you. No one knows you better than Him. Your Friend! Your Companion! Your Lawyer! Your Everything and of course your object of Adoration and goal of devotion- the Latif of life, if you like!

JULY EVENTS

2010-09-16T08:57:00.002-07:00

Toronto hosts Interfaith conference on Promised Mahdi

Its summer and who wants to be indoors? Well how about attending a conference outdoors?
The organisers of this remarkable event, Ahl Bayt, Mr Ghulam Sajad, thought just that and planned the conference outdoor the Metro Hall at 55 John St under a huge tent. The topic was what do the various religions say about Imam Mahdi.
The organisers listed perspectives from the Zoroastrian, Jewish, Sikh, Christian, Sunni and Shia communities and in so doing was able to demonstrate the common theme of Hope in a Saviour among humanity. Sh Habeeb in his presentation reminded all that hope is ingrained within us as we seek for the next iPhone or call for the dream job and hence when humanity waited for the Messiah during Pharaoh’s oppression Moses appeared and during the Pharisees Jesus came and during the Aus and Khazraj Muhammad was sent so today that Future leader will appear in order to establish justice but he will have to be multicultural, inclusive, educated, tech- savvy and of course speak Arabic and be of the house of Muhammad, on whom be peace!

Scarborough missions hosts film- Allah and God need to talk!

Ask for an oxymoron and you have one just here! Well that’s what inspired film maker Ruth Broyde Sharon to make this interesting film that broadcasts Jews and Muslims celebrating Ashura, Rosh Hanna and with Christians during a Sunday Service.

She actually saw a billboard advertising this silly statement and when she finally got in touch with the owner in Hollywood his context was Muslims and Jews after 911 need to talk. Of course we know in Abrahamic Faiths that God and Allah is One and the Same. However this session aimed to make humanity, few Muslims and Jews, who were in attendance that night at Scarborough Mission but with father Terry warmth the audience soon realised that they had to do something to make a difference in the world. Ruth actually challenged all present to take up a project of interfaith and reminded all that a little finger raised according to physicists affects the entire universe. Habeeb was fortunate to attend and being the only Muslim present extended invitation to all to attend the Mosque- many of whom never went to a mosque. They were happy for this. You have to be there- the right place at the right time! The Interfaith Minister Leslie riveted the audience with Rumi and his songs of love!

Ramadan and Summer- Just have to love it!

Ramadan buzz is here and so too is the heat of summer 2010! As Canadians we wait all year long for this heat to warm up the bones, attend weddings and being outdoorsy! After thirty years almost the lunar month of Ramadan arrives in the summer of Canada and the thought of long hours of fasting without thirst quenching cold ones startles us.

In Edmonton that will not be 15 hours but 18 hours!

Isn’t it time to consider Canada an abnormal zone and take the standard from the nearby normal zone? Just a thought for the Muslim Scholars!

The Quran reminds us under the passage of fasting that Allah wishes ease and not hardship. The many concessions of fasting including health, travel, hard labour etc should remind one that Allah is not in need of the actual physical sacrifice but the sincerity and dedication behind any devotion. So warm up the barbeque and make your Iftar a true Ramadan Summer, drink lots of fluids outside fasting hours and get into a sleep schedule knowing how late taraweeh will be and let those lectures after taraweeh be rescheduled or reduced so the wonders of Ramadan is not loss in the haze of rituals and speeches. And while we’re at it, remember the unfortunate victims in the flood hit areas of Pakistan presently or wherever they maybe among the one billion humans who live below a dollar a day.

The Prophet, on whom be peace, said: If a person does not avoid false talk and false conduct during Fasting, then Allah does not care if he abstains from food and drink. Bukhari.

Ramadan is excitement and with the Canadian born generation we have to make it exciting so they too may have stories for their children to come!

Happy Ramadan!

EID GREETINGS

2010-09-16T08:57:00.001-07:00

Eid Mubarak to you too

The happiness we share at this time of year, having found sweet recess from a month of fasting, nightly vigil, extra discipline and lots of charity is surely divine and warrants gratefulness. As we watch the human tragedy unfolds in Pakistan, engulfing the country with relentless grips of poverty and desperation we are indeed thankful for having Eid spent in safer and cleaner environments.

Also the action of a few fame-seeking zealots, in wrongfully associating the Quran with wanton violence and wishing to provoke the Muslims after a peaceful month, should remind us that we will not be excited foolishly but will remain conscious that the true reverence of God's Word is in reciting its verses, learning its meaning and practising its laws, while civilly engaging the world about its message.

As students return to school around this time, this is another kind of rejoicing too, as they rejoined old friends and make new ones while recommitting to a year of study and abstinence from wasteful actions. Eid definitely resonates with this lesson and it seems as if the summer holidays and Ramadan happened together to allow us the reinforcement of those values. Kudos to those who braved their passions and tightened their waistbands in order to fight the little distractions and have arrived at this juncture more balanced, more peaceful and more loving, ready to travel yet another year in life with resolve to make humanity a better place to live and let others live.

The tragic events of lost, as in the case of the woman, who lost her three workers and three customers in life-gutting fire in Bridgetown, is mind boggling unless Faith is what we trust in. She was fasting when held and remarked how calm she became, readily handing over the cash, more traumatised by this immense lost of her 'family'. Such stories are the hallmark of Faith wherever we go and whoever we meet in whatever tradition we belong; they are the richness of faith and spirituality that doesn’t make the radar or the statistics but like the downtrodden workers around the world, are the core foundation of modern civilization. Rather they are the fodder that breathes life into every Eid and makes happiness worth celebrating in every family and without the day off to enjoy the harvest the toil becomes a burden; rather slavery to a tasteless love.

May your days be like the joy of every new moon and may your month long retreat bring you fruits for a long time after and may the gifts you share around the world bring us closer to reality that the Everlasting Eid is surely worth working for.

Quran 2:185 “Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. God intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful. “

Honoring guyana son

2010-09-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Dear editor

Allow me to share an interesting event I recently was blessed to be part of.

It’s the tenth Guyana Awards of recognising excellence, held in multicultural Toronto.

Among the recipients were outstanding leaders, excelling businesses, super achieving scientists, accomplished students, superlative musicians and simply selfless serving volunteers.

Among the recipients is a person that resonates closely. He hails from my town of birth- the land of hope and icon of sacrifice- Enmore, ECD.

Dr Bram Rajiawan was selected among the many short listed for excellent academic pursuit in scientific research and health. He made the Enmoreans proud as much as the Guyanese and fellow Canadians. He actually joined with the many successful ancestors of this unique domain by giving Hope to Guyana.

He said that in reminiscing his past he is mindful always of the motto at Enmore Hope Primary- with labour success. Now that’s not an easy feat. I mean the remembering part!
He also credits his early education teachers! Now that’s definitely a humbling rarity.

Enmoreans in the Diaspora have been equally diligent in maintaining their cultural roots and if you are in Toronto that’s easier than if you are living like Dr. Bram in Winnipeg. He amazes me how a boy going to ‘refugee’ school can enter the snow white belt of upper echelons and receive some of the highest positions in his field and yet be ‘cool’ with his compatriots!

However, the final straw of recognition of greatness is one’s place of birth and I call upon Enmore council to set up a Wall of Fame in Enmore to inspire our generations about the great people Enmore produced, is producing and will produce.

I must take this opportunity to thank the organisers of the Enmore picnic and all their diverse activities during the year including fundraising for Haiti and Enmore itself. The place to check them is www.enmoretoronto.com

The fact is when you take you are nourishing your body but when you give you nourish your soul.

How about funding the poor students of both Enmore Govt and Primary with bursaries to further their dreams? How about establishing some structural protection and aesthetics to the cemetery at Logwood- treatment of the dead is symbolic to treatment of living?

Talk half. Left Half.

Yours truly,
Habeeb Alli

2010-09-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

JUNE

ORPHAN WALK A GROWING SUCCESS

Walk-for-a-cause has become a hit for Charities. The third annual Orphan Walk organised in the summer by North American Muslim Foundation, an NGO for 36 years, attracted on the sunny and windy Saturday morning of May 29th 2010 some 100 walkers from all walks of life. They happily walked with families and friends raising awareness about the plight of those 30,000 children that die daily out of poverty, rather who suffer thanks to the indifference by those who can make a difference. NAMF sponsors such orphans in many countries and you can see profiles of these online at www.namf.ca

The walkers this year raised almost 4000 through their sponsorships from friends, families and businesses, with the most raised by Sawbera Khan for the third year. Fragrant prizes went to the three top fundraisers. T-shirts and sizzling BBQ were the bonus for registrants and the police were pleasantly at hand to guide the group down from Scarborough Civic Centre all the way down Midland Ave into Finch and unto NAMF lawns.

Mention must be made to some friends who came all the way from Brampton and downtown Toronto as well as the diverse presence, among others, the Hon MP Rob Oliphant and on wheel chair the founder Kabir Farouqui. Speeches and poetry scattered showers of inspiration to the jubilant walkers. Shuttle service at both ends was made available for drivers.

The fun of walking is simple; however, when done out of altruistic reasons it becomes spiritual. It's the giving that builds the soul like the walking builds the muscles.

events in toronto

2010-09-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

Ambition Aug

Muslim Youths gather at Long Bay Camp

Imagine going fishing, swimming, hiking, barbequing, boating, sleeping outdoors and more and still praying and eating halal! Well that’s what the Muslim Summer camp does for the last 25 years out of Ottawa. Every year parents feel safe and secured that their kids are off for a week with like minded youths who are having fun but also learning Islam in Long Bay camp. This is north of Kingston.

Interestingly when I visited there this year with my family the Jumna was being conducted by Imam Yasin Dwyer, Chief Muslim Chaplain for federal Prisons and he had it going on the docks!

The barbeque was sizzling and so were the stories coming out of camp. One thing that struck me was the cards students made during a group competition where the sisters won and these were to be sent to poor students across the seas!

ISSRA hosted seniors program for Ramadan.

Seniors gathered monthly at the downtown location to socialise and learn. They are Muslims so are often worried about Ramadan and diet. Diabetes, blood pressure or simply old age is conditions that warrant no fasting. Imam Habeeb reminded them during their many questions that Islam already is a mercy and when we act upon the concessions we get the reward as if we’re actually doing and more.

Sacred Sex Interfaith seminar

Talking about sex is taboo and for an Imam to comment on it is seen way beyond according to Moulana Yusuf Badat recently. Well the Quran talks about it and in Ramadan! Allah reminds us to approach the spouses after Iftar until dawn unlike the practise of pre Islam where a fasting person is considered at violation for having sex during the nights. Recently producers of a show Sex and Religion for Vision TV organised an interfaith panel at place that people shop the sex education and needed items- Just For Her, run by Carlyle Jansen.
Rabbi Yossi represented the Jewish Faith, Habeeb Alli spoke on behalf of Islam and Rev Ralphe Wuske answered on the Christian Faith. Among the questions presented by the moderator and from the audience was is sex for procreation only, what are some of the things the Prophet did to celebrate sex and is there a prayer before and after sex?
The comments after the panel was encouraging with people believing more of these types of progressive information and representatives are needed. Vision airs this on Sep 20th.

Hilal Meeting

While many people resort the calendar to fast and do Eid many people in GTA still depend upon the moon sighting and hence Hilal Committee of GTA held their annual ritual at Madeena Masjid in search of actual sighting in Canada, America and the Caribbean. No sighting was received from locally nor from Caribbean and when there was no sighting from America the decision was announced close to Esha that Ramadan will begin on Thursday and not Wednesday. This EdulFitr meeting will be held at Masjid Abu Bakr and will be on Sep 9th. Eid may fall on Friday Sep10th. Almost 70 organisations are members of Hilal while some others have left.
EID MUBARAK!

NAMF held Pre-Ramadan Dinner

Getting into the mood of Ramadan is sometimes required especially when so much is going on in Summer. Many centres chose to put on a dinner and lecture.
North American Muslim Foundation held a similar program at the location in Scarborough and Dr Imam Hamid Slimi was the chief guest. He spoke on Ramadan and reminded the audience that while it many be hard to fast in summer Allah respects our feelings and grants concessions for those who find it hard. Among the guests were some Christian and Jewish friends who attended the mosque for the first time and were pleased to learn about Islam and enjoy some good halal food! Appeal was made on behalf of the flood victims of Pakistan as Mr. Farouk Khan ED of NAMF, had already left to Pakistan to help in the disaster on Sep 8th. Every Sat throughout Ramadan dinner and lecture series has continued with Dr Imam Abdulhai Patel speaking one Saturday on his trip to Turkey and the rich culture he encountered there.

Twining of Mosques and Synagogues.

For the third year organisers of this interfaith concept are organising twinning. A mosque and a synagogue do an exchange where members of the synagogue would visit the mosque during Juma and in the evening Muslims would attend the synagogue and have an interfaith dialogue. Interest has increased in this in the Sates, Canada and Europe to about 50 twins. Locally the Muslim Jewish Dialogue group headed by Dr Barbara Landau and Shahid Akhtar are spearheading this and the Council of Imams has some members who are partaking. Interested persons should contact us for ore details. This will be done on third weekend of November.

Imams and Leaders hosted for Iftar at Paramount

For the second year the generosity and known tradition of entraining the Ulama in Ramadan took place at the famous best Lebanese cuisine in town- Paramount, Mississauga.
Among the many special invitees were Sh Abdala Idris, Ahmed Shehab and Ally Hindy. The owner of the restaurant was at hand to serve his guests with sumptuous cuisines and Salatul magrib was performed at the premises where many other iftar diners joined. It was simply amazing!

Open Air iftar at City Hall Toronto

For the fourth year Muslims and the public were treated to an open iftar at city hall Nathan Philip Square. Organised by TARIC mosque and the Islamic Call Society many Muslims turned out to enjoy the recitation of Qari Samir and nasheeds by a new youth choir run by Assadean Khan.
The ambience was superb with delicious food served at the end and the crowds grew even more this year with many passersby joining in the Iftar party!
One attendee said she loved the idea and it gives her pride to her faith being a worker downtown and to be part of such a different cultural item but still feel the program should entail more!
Imagine Azan sounding and the Church bell ringing at the heart of Toronto Financial district!

Working on Sexuality Series

2010-09-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

What a dream
Talking about religion
But really not about it
The dynamics of sexuality

Like one who spreads love from her sex shop
One who makes you smile at the screen
One who presides from the podium
The other an eagle of scenic discourses

In the city of ecstasy
God is no longer somewhere just there
The creativeness and prayers, allowances et al
Making the orgasm of hearts real

2010-07-05T11:09:00.000-07:00

miraj- the spiritual spa treatment

2010-06-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Few can defy gravity
And make the time machine stop momentarily
Tired of grief from tormentors
Muhammad retreated into the Futures

From home all the way to Jerusalem
He was taken into Heaven
The gates opened until the Lote Tree
Until He was summoned by the Throne Owner Yaa Habeebe

He saw the sweetness of Heaven and met His comrades
He witnessed the cinders of Hell and realised his luckiness
Gifted with Salah and numerous gifts otherwise
Rasollulah brought His Followers forever a spiritual surprise

Upon His return, they dubbed his miracle a lie
How can you travel two months' distance in wink of an eye?
Abu Bakr believed, such is love not Hate!
The Believers always believe, isn't it, the logic of Faith?

So among the lessons of Miraj we learn
That God takes up the slave not the labels we earn
He uplifts you from your downtrodden state
If you can humble infront of Him and relate

That the lofty place of worship is the key
The masjid is mentioned and not his Meccan alley
To remind us that the haven of peace
Is the retreat of the broken hearted-on your knees

And its the care that counts when stressed-bent
That someone both hears and listens with all intent
So the All Hearing and All Seeing embraced His Beloved
Knowing the Year of Grief needed a break with beautiful memories lived!

Wows for vows!

2010-06-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

Wow!
The day of vows
Finally here
Your journey amazing

Nadia
You know how much it took
Your determination
Your virtue

Your trust in your values
Brought you the gift
Sirus
You have made your mom proud

Your dad smiling
The sweetness of love
Is tasted in every item
The union of two hearts

Two families
And two cultures
The song of love
Sung by angels enjoyed by all

May your marriage be blessed
And children plentiful
May your respect be kind
And in your eyes

Find coolness all the time

In Praise of Islam

2010-04-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

Oh Allah!
What a day!
You brought colors
Like spring flowers
Glowing from the light

You lit the Heavens and Prophets white
Let the love flow
Hatred disappear
Like the Niagara inspires from so far

The water of love motivates good from bad
The candle sometimes doesn't withstand the winds
But another candle lights her
Khatija name magnified

Lighted by the lamp of her simple Kaba, the Dignified
The sacrifice of building Islam
The tears, sweat, and blood they are
Todays' cuisine so luxurious

Tasty, wholesome food for the soul for the curious
The hearts are warm
Canada is secured
But where is the Faith

What will be the Star of the next generation?
Like Don's, the new revert, silent tears
Rejected for his reversal of atheist tendency
Like the mother's hands spread in Tahajjud nightly prayers

Our spirit will not fade
For Love and only love will survive the storm
When we beleive Allah is the behind this Huge Complex!
Who else can do but Him, the Merciful?!

The Holy Prophet's Golds!

2010-03-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

Oh One Who taught us the Quran
The right to know truth
Without change or human error
Your divine Gold uncompeted

Oh One Who gave women their rights
To be alive, to marry, to inherit, to be
You covered the bare headed princess of Yemen
With your own shawl
What an everlasting Recipient of Gold you are!

Oh One Who made purification easy
When others in the past scissored the impure patches
You gave us washing and even tayammum
You made cleanliness is next to Godliness possible
What perfect Gold you scorred!

Oh One Who won followers of all Faiths
Listening to cries of remorse and guilt
You provided us direct Tauba, no third party needed
You showed even the worse of killers like Wahshi can be forgiven
Wow what infinite Gold you striked!

Oh One Who Cared about Tauheed, His Oneness
When Prophets and Saints are worshipped
You ensured your reverence is guarded
You denied even a picture of your handsomeness!
That's pure Gold, eh!

Oh One Who made strangers His family
When tribes and races killed and broke hearts
You gave Blacks, Browns and Whites the same podium
With you racism is hatred for Bilal,
There is no Gold like this ever!

Oh One Whose love sits in every heart
Your friends compliment you and your foes admire
Al-Amin is your name before Rasollulah
Love is your first name, oh Allah ka Habeeb!
Gold so golden, duh!

Oh One Who is buried in Medina
Our thoughts like Niagara flow to you forever
When will we meet?
Just a smile is enough for this tormented lover!
You're this world's lifetime achiever!

Chance favours the prepared mind!

2010-02-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

Oh Lord
Why this anxiety?
This muscle
Not stopping to contract

This heartbeat
Endlessly jumpy
My wild dreams turned frenzy
Where is the calm?

Has our snow turned slushy?
Thought it was heaven
I courted
Now not aware

If today will be good
But with You Oh Provider
My life will be lovely!
No matter who!

PARENTS-BABY POLITICS

2010-02-17T11:23:00.000-08:00

Born on the bed of love
You brought laughter
Your cries terrifying
Yet your embrace so soothing

Today you're olympian
A corporate globetrotter
Your beauty celebrated on plasma
Every muscle grown into career with power

So you forgot your oldies
That rocked through the nights
And cradled you from danger
You gave me the looks forgetting how I lost mine

Why this lost of love
I was Valentine before the roses
Working two jobs so you may not
Hearing racist slurs so your Canada be respectful

I wonder oh baby boy
Will you not turn to Salah
Your first ipod was Azan
Your final word will be Allah

I remain in your eyes outgrown
But you are still my life's joy
No matter you did not pay the bills
I just want you to call and be good to my grands

You refused me a chair on your dinner table
Your new controller dislikes my thoughts
It was me who celebrated your aqiqa
I remain your wellwisher without being on the mortgage

It's me big baby
Don't play politics with my love
You will sit here some day
And wonder what went wrong!

Snowflakes falling in love

2009-12-09T09:52:00.000-08:00

So pure
Each tiny flake
Made to join another
In wondrous cascading snow storm

I wonder why God made us so near
When it thunders the walls vibrate
When your thoughts race
My heart trembles at your distaste

Maybe the ink on the pen has dried
But destiny is changed by one powerful stroke
That when two souls mate
Their history is remade

On the winds of affection
Only one song plays harp on my window
It's when will you show your countenance
That my wintery mind gets her moonlit sky

Joseph was entralled by the King's wife
But all the women of Egypt lost their fingers on his cuteness
Veiled is the beauty of this warden
Only the fingers of this prisoner can unleash

While days go by tormented
And nights are lived through for the sunrise
Let the bond of your molten memories
Be the opener of new horizons

You walk among angels
Your virtue not lesser than Mary
The embrace of a thousand damsels
Will not equal one of your passing touches.

White world fills my outside
Cold and colder the intruder
So let me light your fireplace
For in this heart lies its matches.

2009-12-08T11:02:00.000-08:00

I used copy and paste my writings on this blog but now it doesn't allow me to.

I have to get accustomed to writing direct. I'm now inspired to since one of my ardent readers has reminded me how my writings are like chocolate during christmas!

It's good to learn that when you give your thoughts to an idea it grows into a reality.
I met a wonderful person who directed me to a great concept- wellness.
He was after me for a year to listen to his presentation. I was too preoccupied with things to give him the attention and time. I dismissed it as another pyramid. But in summer I got a call from him when I needed a speaker to talk to my audience on health and fasting. He would usually charge 2000. since he has 7 degrees and 2 PhDs but he offfered his knowledge free!

My audience was thrilled and I felt as if I was listening to one of my own talks and research on health and spirituality.

I have since decided to work along with him and his energetic teamster - a pastor- to bring wealth and health into the lives of all through a 25 years time tested natural product line called melaleuca.com from the Aussie plant of T Tree.

Are you challenged in health and wealth ? Then if you are here is your chance! It's just a matter of time!

2009-08-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Canucks is life poem

2009-08-07T09:02:00.001-07:00

Canucks is life!

Habeeb Alli

From Guyana

5 years since in Canada

They ask me why I came
From where do I originate?
Do I have any English Skills?
They want to know of my religious base too

I was blessed to be born in Guyana
Studied in India
And travelled the world over and over
Where pains and laughter mingle

Yet I chose cold Canada
Where my families and friends
Made babies and bought houses
To be my children’s residence forever

It’s the freedom to live
The fearlessness to party
The respect of my multiple origins
The sweetness of polite Canadians all about

This love found new
Gives education fragrance
Women color, dignity and saris
Besides constitutional protection from machetes

Opportunities and more chances
Canux is life
With a canoe or a cricket bat
Here is where my bones will dissolve.

another youth dead

2009-08-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

It is with deepest sadness and sincere introspection that I seek to key these few lines concerning the recent tragedy on the East Bank road- snuffing the lives of three able young men of our dear soil. While the reports of the three dailies are yet to reconcile the real truth and the courts are still investigating the actual accident, I must say that such incidents have not been rare in Guyana when it comes to road tragedy.

I remember participating many years ago in the opening the the Mahaica-Georgetown highway and in leading the prayers mentioned 'safety from carnage'. Today I have to mourn the victims, the same being my cousins' son- Asheki. All these youths are the tomorrow of our coveted nation and more must be done to educate, protect and remind our road users that each life is as important as theirs and the taking of one life is as taking that of the entire human race.

Asheki, and like the others, are deeply mourned by their loved ones as well as terribly angered by the events. Of course the survivor is also a victim of this traumatic experience and will need therapy. Asheki was another future pilot of Guyana, another budding sports enthusiast and another blossoming citizen heading for a bright 'legit' future. Events like these should have the interfaith community praying and talking, the parliamentarians legislating and the media personnel debating including the rich making pledges for establishing foundations in the name of such educated youths who did not live to see their dreams come through.

I pray for our brothers' Heavenly residence and endurance on behalf of their grieving loved ones. Quran says in 2:156 Those who say, when afflicted with calamity: "To Allah/God We belong, and to Him is our return":- Yours sincerely,

Aunti Ameena happy bday!

2009-07-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Sister, Mom, Girl, Aji,Granny
Younger than Elizabeth Taylor
You cross life rivers
Not only Little Biaboo
But Niagara and Florida Keyes
With burdens like Mount Everest

Yet these shouldersStand tall
With grace, beauty and Faith
You enjoy the goodies
Long after he left you alone
Smiling on every encounter
You sing, cry and pray

In the world of your retired moments
Between countries and kids
When this day arrives
And wishes pour from hearts and flowers
Know it's not the ones not here
And the things that should have
But love and belonging

Is what makes us care
This is one Radika
That planted her trees
In cement and affection
That today their fruits
Are like California strawberries

While you are held in angels wings
Your sixty plus milestone
Is a blessing no gift card can fulfill!
And all your children are very much yours!

One God

2009-07-02T12:00:00.001-07:00

Tauheed: the Uniqueness of ONE God in Islam and rejection of Trinity Concept of God.

"Do not worship besides Allah that which can not help or harm you." (Al-Anbiya 21:66)

Muslims believe in the sacred creed of Oneness of God as found in the introductory statement of Islam: Laa Ilaha Illalaah- there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.

Monotheism is the cornerstone and indispensable foundation of a Muslim’s belief system. To embrace the One true God, commonly called in Arabic Allah, is not only to believe He exists but to love Him, trust in Him, obey Him, know Him et al.

This position is as natural as breathing oxygen instead of carbon dioxide.

Can you imagine three drivers trying to drive the same car down the 401, all three fighting to get the steering, gear and pedal going together? Have you ever seen several fathers claiming fatherhood of a cute baby and DNA testing proving all them as biological fathers? Can this perfectly run world with intricate and complex systems possibly be created and managed by multiple directors, each having the same powers and portfolios?

21:22 If there were, in the heavens and the earth, other gods besides Allah, there would have been confusion in both! but glory to Allah, the Lord of the Throne: (High is He) above what they attribute to Him!

That is so true that atheists when confronted are usually convinced in the existence of a single supreme being who created everything. This makes common sense to them easier than trying to find the logic in polytheism.

In a 1997 survey in the science journal Nature, 40 percent of U.S. scientists said they believe in God—not just a creator, but a God to whom one can pray in expectation of an answer. That is the same percentage of scientists who were believers when the survey was taken 80 years earlier.

On the concept of Trinity the Oneness of Allah opposes the very basis of having to share Godhead with anyone else, no matter how close that being may be to God.

5:17 In blasphemy indeed are those that say that Allah is Christ the son of Mary. Say: "Who then hath the least power against Allah, if His will were to destroy Christ the son of Mary, his mother, and all every - one that is on the earth? To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between. He creates what He pleases. For Allah hath power over all things."

This is not only referring to the then prevalent belief that Jesus, on whom be peace, was considered God but even Mary was worshipped and as such this acts against the very notion of worshipping the One Unseen Creator- Allah. The very first commandment is to not take any other gods as deity after all He is a jealous God!

And God spake all these words, saying, I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. (Exodus 20:1-3)

The Jews continue to believe in One God or Yahweh and since this was the original teachings of all Prophets it’s not surprising to note that the Torah and Old Testament continue to uphold this belief. Wasn’t Jesus from that same era too? Why would he want that to change that, when he was sent to uphold the laws of Moses?

16:36 For We assuredly sent amongst every People an apostle, (with the Command), "Serve Allah, and eschew Evil": of the People were some whom Allah guided, and some on whom error became inevitably (established). So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied (the Truth).

When the Quran refutes the claim that some people believe that Jesus is one among three gods it refers to the mindset at the time of revelation. However, the mindset was established in such away that any brand of such a belief where Allah doesn’t remain central to His Oneness in Worship and Belief is refuted in this verse, as again, Tauheed is of paramount importance to the Islamic creed. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia trinity was introduced after the fourth century i.e. in Nicea Council 324AD.

5:73 They do blaspheme who say: Allah is one of three in a Trinity: for there is no god except One Allah. If they desist not from their word (of blasphemy), verily a grievous penalty will befall the blasphemers among them.

Since the Jesus is mortal and has died according to Christians then this becomes problematic that how can god die, let alone validating Trinity, since one is absent from the equation. Or how can the father be loved more than the son, since it’s the son who died for man’s sins? Although we are suppose to love God with all our heart. We as Muslims believe in Jesus as the Prophet of God, son of Virgin Mary, performer of miracles, promised messiah to return on earth but cannot in anyway believe he knows when the Day of Judgment will be. And this is how Mark 13 verse 32 describes him- "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

The Quran corroborates this: 41:47 To Him is referred the Knowledge of the Hour (of Judgment: He knows all): No date-fruit comes out of its sheath, nor does a female conceive (within her womb) nor bring forth the Day that ((Allah)) will propound to them the (question), "Where are the partners (ye attributed to Me?" They will say, "We do assure thee not one of us can bear witness!"

Toronto Muslims on the move!

2009-07-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

Looking for more than a mosque? Then the IMO is your next stop.

Finding a place of worship that offers more than prayers on Friday is a challenge for many Muslims in Toronto. Even for others to find a mosque that returns their telephones or welcomes their curious grade 8 can be a challenge. But look no further. The IMO is here.

Entering the eleventh year of existence at 65 Rexdale Ave., Toronto, this once major food-chain head office-turned-Islamic-complex, has evolved to be the beacon in the Muslim community for events and a-must-stopover for politicians, community leaders, the media, school board officials and students, apart from interfaith participants, the poor and needy, among the host of other Canadians seeking some truth about Islam.

The Executive body has functioned over these trying years in a system of Shura or collective management, with the President, Omar Farook, leading the able and capable nine-member team, mainly origins of Guyana. The philosophy that Guyanese Muslims seem to lead the way in mosque building and management in this diverse city of over 350,000 Muslims is they were already doing similar activities in their home country, since there was no Government agency to do this on their behalf.

The IMO is famous for the large Iftar turnouts on the weekends of Ramadan with almost 1200 persons and during the week with about 500 in attendance. These meals are provided by community donors who seek only the blessings of feeding a fasting person.

The youths are the bedrock of any developing community and the madressa at the IMO geared at educating and entertaining the youths, include the regular madressa, sports, and the critically important Scouts Canada program lead by Dawood Zwink, a full time Muslim worker at Scouts. After-school tuition is also ongoing at this huge 50,000 square feet facility. The centre has a truly superb facility to host social functions. Throughout the year conferences, weddings, funerals, meetings and entertainment programs are been hosted here.

Relief is a known phenomenon at the IMO, not only in helping local mosques raise money but providing a forum for international relief organizations and supporting local causes. Sick Kids Hospital received the highest fundraiser of almost $185, 000.00.

The clarion call of Islam is kindness. To make the brick and mortar of any organization worth its value is for it to serve humanity with love and respect. Every third week of the month volunteers gather food items and distribute them to needy Torontonians with a smile of dignity. It’s called Feed the Street. They also run the Ma & Pa Food Bank which serves members of all denominations in the Greater Toronto Area. CIC and RIS are among others; apart from leading MPs, who have garlanded the efforts of the IMO with awards and accolades. Their grand 2008 10th anniversary gala saw much of this, including a message from the Prime Minster of Canada, the Hon. Stephen Harper.

Respect and service are the hallmarks of a successful community and the delicious monthly brunch caters for members of the community including the seniors, where volunteers serve them with much love and regard.

As Omar Farouk puts it: “Among the challenges we face is the constant need to provide professional and appropriate programs, while we continue to envisage a more holistic vision where the IMO remains central in the building block of Torontonians and their diverse communities”

Orphan Walk organized to help Gazan’orphans.

How many times you haven’t seen that Terry Fox walk and wondered how he did it? And you even promise next time round you will jump into your walking attire, grab some cold ones and enroll in the great walk. But it hardly ever happens.

For the second year North America Muslim Foundation organized an orphan walk for 6 km in Scarborough on a nice Saturday morning. May 15th saw almost fifty participants making the most of the sidewalks as Police escorts volunteered to keep the pedestrians safe and sound. Almost two thousand six hundred dollars were raised for these suffering children in Gaza. At the NAMF building BBQ and fun things were organized so everyone could enjoy the day. The walker with the most sponsorship was gifted a cell phone, while on site was the media and some community leaders.

It’s something the youths and elders a like look forward to!

Children of Hope organize second feel good gala event

Every so often we are invited to support diners in order to fundraise for a worthy cause. Rarely, it’s for a feel good event only. Children of Hope brings hope in this department. Created only three years ago, a set of professionals have banded to help orphans in the world. Already on the road to success, they have sponsored children in Africa and Guyana.

Ilyassa Shabazz, second daughter of the legendary Malcolm X, was the main guest at the Gala held in Markham Event place in May 29th in order to support the orphans around the world. Children of Hope is a Canadian Charity that hosted the event. Ilyassa has continued her father's legacy of being a staunch human rights activist in USA, with a Masters in social justice.

The sumptuous dinner and whopping entertainment brought lots to their feet in salute of the work of these volunteers. On site were the famous Babar and Fatima from little Mosque on the Prairie. While Azhar Usman, the famous American Comedian wowed the crowd with his ever refreshing desi jokes.
As their website states: We wish to better the lives of these children by sponsoring orphanages and covering school expenses like text books, stationeries, uniforms, and tuitions fee. We believe in giving these children the same advantages that we in the West often take for granted.
ISSARC hosts retreat in Simcoe country to fight poverty in Ontario
Fighting poverty for some 300,000 odd Ontarians is a daily struggle. What can faith and religion do in this regard?
For most parts churches and mosques, synagogues and temples are already dishing out shelters, hot meals, clothing, job searches, free books and medicines and lots more. But can this fight for the last twenty years be sustained in this patchwork manner? Is there a movement of social justice and political activism that will represent the voices of millions who are attached to faith, feel strong about justice and are on the anti poverty agenda?
Isarc is that interfaith body that embodies this very concern and you would have seen them on the Queens park lawns just before the budget, reminding politicians and the world to do mind the poor.
More of this work is in the pipeline and Muslims are reminded that not only zakat observance is enough but joining others in the fight against poverty is part of Faith as the Prophet said poverty leads to disbelief and disbelief belongs to the Fire.

Toronto Police hosted Hate Crime session with Muslim Leaders.
While hate crimes committed against Muslims is not the number one among the many communities facing this issue yet it’s alarming. The Toronto Police ensured that Muslims and their leadership were well informed of the efforts they are making to stem this disturbing trend and also to engage them to do a better education in the wider community. This was held at the Yonge street head quarters.
Discrimination is the product of ignorance and with more out reach and public relations much of this can be curtailed. Various speakers from both the police and the intelligence crime unit spoke of their efforts and the timely reminder from Mr. Keith Forde, the Deputy Police Chief, reminded us that domestic violence is still a taboo in many immigrant communities and it’s silently taking the lives, dignity and property of our loved ones.
More sessions like these are needed and thanks to the Muslim support group, who wore their distinguishing t-shirts that day and organized a sumptuous dinner, are hoping to bring this informatics to the mosques. Many mosques of varied backgrounds were represented from the GTA.

Muslim Christian Dialogue held in Toronto on Tauheed and Trinity
Muslims are often called to explain the meaning of Allah and Christians are often challenged on the concept of Trinity. How do we have a dialogue on both without ending up at each other’s throat or faith?
North America Muslim Foundation hosted an evening panel with Dr Tony da Costa, known Christian debater and Shaikh Habeeb Alli, known Islamic scholar, to talk about their respective perspectives on Godhead.
The hall at 4140 Finch Ave E Scarborough was packed with mostly Christians and the two panelists were moderated by Mr. Shahryar Shaikh who asked fives questions to Tony while Mr. Neil asked Habeeb five questions on Tauheed.
It turned out that instead of a straight forward explanation session that the polemics of trinity and the intricacies of Tauheed were being challenged.
The attendees also had an opportunity to ask their questions which were answered with a lots of references from both sides.
The panelists met with each other cordially after as well as with the audience and as one Christian Arab lady said: Habeeb the difference is you were not the stereotypical angry Muslim forcing out answers without reason!
Toronto Financial Services Association organized first Islamic Finance seminar
The famous financial complex at 250 Yonge Street is not home to dress up suits of the some financial geeks only but suddenly there is interest to host Islamic finance professionals on a working breakfast in this trendy super high office.
Among the attendees were financial account managers, bankers, accountants, professors of economics, Islamic scholars, Islamic finance operators, etc.
The sessions ran in the morning only and were aimed at brainstorming the need for Islamic finance as an ethical industry niche as well as issues of retail, education, regulation and advocacy.
It was suggested that a follow up session be done and even for TFSA to incorporate Islamic finance as a bona fide arm of the association in order that proper and consistent attention is given to this growing industry. Toronto aught to become the hub of this viable market and not be left out of this stable economic alternative.
Really for Life observed in Scarborough as Muslims battle cancer
Every year they assemble at the famous well constructed Birchmount recreation park to join in solidarity cancer victims. Muslims are no exception to this sickness and they too do the laps and light the candles in hope of cure.
For many years Muslims who survived cancer have organized themselves into a support group, based at Islamic Foundation Toronto, helping patients, supporting families, meeting once a month for education ,etc.
They were quite visible with their friends and families at this yearly night vigil. Food was free and halal, while entertainment was lively. More importantly the concept that sickness doesn’t discriminate was driven home by Imam Habeeb, in his yearly address after Maghreb, taking heed of their traditional halal lifestyle and be part of the wider community drive for healthy living, including organ donation.
The patient when first diagnosed with cancer is like the beginning of the night and later on when he/she becomes disappointed it’s like the twilight and when the treatment begins it’s like the long nights and finally when results become evident it resembles the dawn, with finally health restored as in the bright morning. This is the reason behind the night vigil and lending solidarity to these cancer patients or even families of who those who succumbed to this still-to-be cured illness.
Allahummshafinaa wa aafinaa!

NAMF held second summer Masjid Qurtaba fundraising dinner.
Striking at the heart of the problem Faisal Kutty spoke eloquently on the need of a viable institution in Toronto that supports Islam as a dynamic social, political and economical system rather than having more places of worship only. The famous Canadian lawyer was speaking this Sat at NAMF along with Hon. MP John Mackay and Imam Qayyum Khan.
And isn’t this what North America Muslim Foundation is about? Providing relief internationally and viable programs locally. The Masjid has been a real blessing as hundreds in the neighborhood and afar gets to pray and function Islamically, with the 34,000 sq feet facility housing the Masjid, hall, gym, seniors club, kung fu classes, daily Islamic school and offices.
With the number of educational programs including so far for this year 2009
Fundraising for Gaza, debate on Gaza,
Family Fair for all Ontarians, Panel on Women’s Rights,
Debate on Tauheed and Trinity, Seniors weekly club,
8th Annual Youth Speech competition,
Fundraising for SWAT Valley,
Social services fair, job fair
Masjid and School expansion programs
2nd Annual Orphan Walk and BBQ
Khutba Training workshop
Completion of the Digging Wells project in Baluchistan
Chinese Muslims Exposition
Summer Islamic camp and Day Care services, et al

Entertainment was by the now famous Waleed Hilal who wowed the crowd with his vibrant Arabic Nasheeds and the Patna Kebab House provided dinner.
Youth Tarbiya Conference held for the 8th year in Toronto
So many conferences and events to educate Torontonians, it’s just amazing. Islamic Foundation has been sponsoring this event for years, bringing Islamic Scholars known in South Africa, England and now this time from Trinidad.
The two day event saw the Masjid packed with men, youngsters and sisters. Many workshops and lectures were organized where these dynamic speakers presented on various topics affecting youths. The usual Friday night session Shaikh Habeeb used to do on sexuality would attract some 150 boys and girls. This year that was conducted by the visiting scholars with the attendees expanded to be anyone while the workshop on identity for the youths was divided up into several sessions.
There are also two works after the conference on Islamic finance.
Altogether this is another opportunity to show case the foreign Ulama in Toronto in the attempt to lending help to youths living here and their social issues.
www.youtthtarbiyah.com

Tribute to Br Michael Jackson

2009-06-27T07:42:00.001-07:00

The Thriller persona is gone
Shocked by your living arrest
But thrilled the world will be always
By your lovely performances, Mikaeel

In life
Many valleys and peaks
Only Faith and Faith in Him Only
Can bring this mountain to stand

You did show us resilience
Never mind the bizarre acts
The innocent is innocent until proven otherwise
Like a Phoenix you were ready to rise again

Your heart sang while souls prayed
Now that the enemies have lost
Heaven gained a son of angelic ascent
Never to cry again, yet we will forever.

You are not alone
Billie Jean will echo on
Healing the world behind
While the poor pours prayers in oceans of tears everywhere.

poem on wedding bells

2009-06-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

Sarah and Wijdan marriage

You met under Divine Eyes
Giggling along life's path
Sara in awe
Wijdan blushing helplessly

Two hearts joined by faith
Nevermind the different colors and praises
Two years in prayers
Today the miracle answer is here

While silent cries
Quenched butterfly stomachs
And unrelenting friends
Scared the wits out of marriage

Yet you've found your dream boy
The halo of your wedding crown
Your man of love today
Wijdan you're so lucky

To share your affection
With the world's beauty
In this unique way
Let no day turn night

Without gratitude and kisses
For only under Divine writ
Can these bells ring now,
And forever more.

wild imaginations

2009-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

Guavanese Forever

I close my eyes
And you stood there
Eyes drunk in the sea of love
Mine caresses yours an invite

I laid bare my aesthetic soul
And there you spoke
The angel in you broke
You made me your life-long hero

This melody of yours
Where stars, sunshine and your charm
Dance on every thought-floor
This is all I hear without pause

You're everything
Just every act and saying
Is all that a man would pray for
And here you have to me surrender

Grateful, anxious, excited
The words of I love you
Aren't they enough for life
But yet insufficient when without care?

So for you everywhere
And only for you
That you may splash freely
The dreams of desire at life's altar.

SALAMATI FATHER'S DAY!

2009-05-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

Fatherhood should be honored by true love.

You may have heard your kid singing that song praising mothers for all their laborious works and granting them unconditional love. Fathers are no where in this song except to love them once after mommy’s thrice. Does this Hadith really contribute to children always saying they love their mothers more? Shouldn’t it be equal?

As hard as it is to make money so too it is for fathers to get love these days, let alone equal. Not that one takes care of the family in order to receive father’s day cards and birthday presents. Not that one is a father so he may use his children to offset his expenses and be secured at retirement.

But honoring a father has become a weird concept, although the Prophet has rightly equated pleasing one’s father as to that of pleasing God. People express that differently but the point is two many squabbles between parents, sometimes violent and even separating, leads to terrible disturbance in the minds of children. Children will honor the parents once they honor themselves.

Fathers also experience child birth pains and are entitled to some loving. But again men seem to come over as macho; that don’t hug and kiss. When a man brought his child in the presence of the Prophet and he kissed him; the man exclaimed he doesn’t! What did the Prophet reply- well if Allah removed love from your heart who am I to enter it? It’s not wrong to hug your boys and especially girls, and say I love you and say how beautiful they are. But sometimes the cultural burden is too much. Some fathers are so into the haram and halal of what the kids are doing that they forget to appreciate them for who they are.

The best sadaqa and charity one can expend on one’s family is time. And believe parents really are soccer moms and hockey dads. Nothing compared to living in the old country way back! You play and come home. Now play is a job. But the time spent will be well rewarded. Boys will see their dad as role models. Going out on family events and Masjid dinners all help cement this relationship. So when time to loving the father there is reason to it, although love it self has no reason. Yusuf, the Prophet, says in the Quran, about his love for his father Yacoob, is such that it grieves him not to be with him. But that did not come just like that. Yacoob cried for forty years, unstoppable tears of missing his beloved young son and lost his eyesight in the painful process. So love goes where love is.

Parenting nowadays takes conferences and guide books. Imagine parenting a child needs a PhD in techniques. But while this maybe new the reality is the fundamentals of parenting remains the same. Closeness, sincerity, time, good listening skills, empathy, hugging and providing are all in the teachings of Islam. Why would a child leave a divorced mother’s home and relish living with a poor father? It’s because somewhere his parenting skills meant love. Not shouting and judging but embracing and understanding. Today many youths do not tell their parents the secrets of their lives until they get into trouble. A father is most times the best friend of his daughter because not that he knows the jokes that makes her smile but more importantly he can assure her he will not get angry at her silly mistakes.

Fathers should love and children should love them like mothers equally.

What's happening in TO?

2009-05-28T12:14:00.000-07:00

IDDRF honored Dr Fuad Shahin

Niagara is the home of miraculous beauty- the falls and the scenery. But add more attraction to this Canadian place of fame- Dr Fuad Shahin.

Recently IDRF honored this stalwart of the Muslim community with a lifetime award after he was honored earlier by the Ontario Award for selfless human service. He being a founder of IIDR relief agency and several others and a great doctor and family man this award came timely as others in the community continue to get inspired by the selfless years our great fathers put in to make Canada and Islam a glowing beacon of inspiration throughout the world.

This function was held at the Versailles Banquet Hall in Mississauga and was attended by a huge populace of leaders and politicians. Attendees were entertained by two talented dub poets and served a delicious Pakistani meal after. It was an evening you wouldn’t want to have missed!

Unionville hosts Islam information session

They meet every month over snacks and discuss everything under the sun. But these affluent Unionville residents reach not to discuss new BMWs but to understand spirituality.

After asking around from his patients for an Islamic Scholar, almost since 9/11, Dr Gordon finally found a patient who linked him to a mosque. Finally the arrangement was made and Habeeb Alli was at the event one Monday night presenting Islam and answering questions. It was like a tap burst out of eagerness to learn! Everyone had questions from hijab to Jesus, from violence to who’s an imam.
Learning about diversity will make living with diversity easy and fun!
See www.knowcanadianmuslims.ca to engage others in such a fruitful workshop on Islam.

Mr. Fareed Amin cops Guyana Award prize.

It’s not easy to see him in the mosque as a Minster’s deputy and harder to notice him as the President of the Islamic Institute of Toronto behind the city’s office chair. But yes he is honored by his long outstanding service in the public sector and recognizable he was last Saturday when he copped the Guyana Award for excellence in his field.

Mr. Fareed Amin is a dedicated Muslim leader – getting the IIT from conception into reality while never divorcing his Guyanese roots. Today he has made the Muslim community proud, when upon accepting the award he recognized all the other recipients and committed to follow those ideals that religion and community afford us in the journey of life.

Independence is free from injustice

2009-05-26T10:33:00.001-07:00

It's indeed a wonderful feeling to be able to travel this long on the road of Independence. Gratitude and happiness should decorate the corridors of every proud Guyanese inner sense of dignity. While this is no easy feat, the fact that like every any birth anniversary, the joy of accomplishment and the reflection of future plans anoint the soul for pleasures unspeakable. So too in Guyana and the wider Diaspora, in blowing the candles of forty three, the wish that peace and prosperity pursue this land of endless waters at Godspeed is innate.

In all due respect, it's not only that the leaders of independence and the martyrs of the struggle be remembered but every son and daughter be recognized; that in life we are a part of each other and every success is the accumulation of every other's crumbs. Like the pebble thrown at the ponds of fresh black water, the ripples are not only circles visible to the near stander but travels way beyond the tributaries, into light years ahead. So too every race, religion and class must be given their fair share for independence is also, rather is the freedom from the slow death of poverty, racism and systemic discrimination.

My recent visit reminds me that not only progress is visible but the coveted freedom of time and leisure is still indigenous. Recently, Toronto celebrated Guyanese of excellence and the exhilaration reechoed humbly; that inclusive, intelligent and industrious minds originate from the blood-soaked fields of our ancestral heritage alike. This being our contribution to global peacekeeping!

Let this year of colonial freedom be celebrated with the commitment to never allow another man to be unjust to anyone and may the spiritual enrichment of our paths be the beacon of advancement, always.

As Mahatma Gandhi put it, on his way to independence, through Ahimsa; “Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.”

Yours truly,
Habeeb Alli

Muslims of Guyana: From India to the Big North.

2009-05-19T12:20:00.001-07:00

Muslims of Guyana: From India to the Big North.
Tracing the Indentured Journeys.

It’s the Indian Arrival Day celebration in Guyana and recollections of the Muslims who came in 1838, jumps on memory lane. You heard about Fullaman and wondered why Muslims in this land of many waters are referred to so, sometimes derogatorily. The fact is the Indians were preceded by Africans, whose main roots were not only of the Fulla tribe but primarily Muslims. In the scheme of things, colonialism infamous divide and rule policy made the new Indian indentures the legit Muslims and the old slaves –kapar- or Non Muslims.
Having lived in India and ask any child of the Mother Land’s indentured laborers you get the distinct feel that no matter what kurta you wear and which qaseeda you sing you are an outsider. However, the continued yearning to know one’s roots never ceases, apart from Bollywood desires!
Among the first batch that arrived on the Whitby were 94 Musalman, enriched with their Mughal culture- Urdu language, Persian cuisine, art of reciting Gazals and the Holy Quran and experts artisans. Learned men among these Asian tigers appeared, even in the second batch, aboard the Hesperus, who maintained their Faith, despite the brutal policies of the Gora- white slave masters.
Interestingly, I was fortunate in my three years of roots-searching-escapades in the 80’s, during my student days, to travel in some of the areas our ancestors originated from- Lucknow, Ghazipur, Allahabad, Agra, Gorakpur, Murshidabad, Azamgarh, Mirzapur, Shahabad, Sultanpur, Faizabad, Patna and Alighar. As I started speaking Urdu, one gentleman actually commented that my accent smells of a Ghaziabad background! One friend from Guyana was lucky to have correspondence with his returned great grandfather and found them in Azamgarh. I later travelled in Ramadan to their home to break fast with cold sherbet and learn of their Shia heritage. The Two Eids were well celebrated in Guyana as well as Youuman Nabi but the Tazia ceremonies that happened until the late 60’s was evidence that the Muslims that came were from both Sunni and Shia tradition, except that division did not survive.

I must say that the diligence the mosques and madressa provided in educating the growing Muslim masses from since 150 years, have been the key of this community’s establishment. While the conversion to Christianity was no easy feat, with converts gaining the better jobs and educational opportunities, those who remain steadfast to their dharma were better off, eventually, as they too did business, went to school and travelled but with self dignity and “coolie” pride.

The first mosque stands at Vergenogen as an emblem that the Muslims built their wooden structure for prayer and while their is a monument representing that history on the West Coast of Demerara, the fulfillment of the rebuilt mosque is still to be done. As a matter of fact the next early mosque at 78 Corentyne, still stands; renovated and active, another symbol that early Muslims were accustomed to being community oriented as they had already lived that experience as a Minority in India during the British Raj.
Recently a famous gentleman passed away in Pakistan whose domicile was Toronto for many years. Many heard the name Queenstown Masjid in his eulogy only because his wife’s grandfather is buried in the capital’s landmark mosque- he being an Afgan Pathan who along with others built that early structure.
It was a British sailor that remarked upon seeing the first mosque facing West that the Kabba in Arabia is positioned East from Guyana, moreso Northern, and not West as the case in India.
Muslims joined their counterparts of the African community as speakers of Arabic and while the return to Islam by then was slow and painful, over the years that understanding and solidarity has grown, giving obvious optics that these two communities can naturally co-exist.
With several rebellions marking the sore sojourn of Indian arrival in Guyana and fatal quest for freedom being etched on their altar of pride- the call for same was being reechoed every where and India itself was ablaze in this self determination struggle. Maybe it was the harmony around the fire in the logies, reciting Hanoman Chalisa and Milad Akbar that made the winds of courage raged. Such has been the pride of Guyana- that Hindus and Muslims are seen as Bhai-Bhai until this hour.
According to Raymond Chickrie: Hindustani Muslims in Guyana have had a long history of resistance dating back to the 11th October 1838, when two Muslims – Jummun (Juman) and Pultun escaped the clutches of the gora sahibs (white masters). The bodies of two strange men were discovered shortly afterwards at Mahaica, in the bushes who were believed to be the two “runaway coolies” Jummun and Pultun. We also saw the Rosehall uprising of 1913 where mainly Muslims were at the forefront “battling” imperialism - Moula Bux, Jahangir Khan, Dildar Khan, Chotey Khan, Aladi, and Amirbaksh stood up to the injustices on the plantations.
Others were named in West Coast Demerara and those who joined other leaders in the forefront as workers union activists, etc. Later in politics and parliament and until today in business and all fronts of life those names resound, although at times the names do not necessarily denote Islam.
When you compare today migration to North America by Indians from Guyana, you see the parlance of a better life, however a reality or delusion that maybe. Calcutta in those days stood as the recruiting ports for laborers with gold and land as the prize. That a child may see an abundant opportunity of education and well being, parents leave their comfortable abodes and migrated away from Guyana. There too they have maintained a strong semblance of community and faith, while enjoying the new citizenship of giving and respect of diversity.

Maybe its time that the remittance and the reputation be held for once and the question asked- if we love foreign things so much, how about also accepting some foreign ideas of religion that will make the social life much more rewarding and the spiritual much more alluring – as much as Western Union and US TV does for those living faraway from loved ones.
Indian Arrival Day may present its issues but for once, just for once, to remember that we did not just appear from no where but our ancestors were children of a rich civilization somewhere in Asia that boasts of culture, arts, languages, armies, wealth, histories and values, today the world is so proud of.

moulana sidiq nasir

2009-04-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

Panel Discussion held on Women Issues vis a vis Quranic interpretation.

North American Muslim Foundation recently held a panel discussion on the topic of women and their rights within the Islamic Sharia. Have you ever thought that why a woman cannot marry four husbands but a man can? Or what is the answer to the Quran stipulating a woman’s testimony isn’t equal to man? How about the way some Muslim countries treat women and rape? Have you had to drink your morning coffee by the water cooler while choking to answer some these CNN headlines?

Well on the head table last Wednesday night was a scholarly scholar visiting from Trinidad, Moulana Siddiq Nasir, who was schooled in Pakistan’s Aleemiya Institute in the 70’s. The other panelist was Nevin Reda, who is pursuing her Ph D at U of T on theology and the exegesis of Sura Baqara. Habeeb Alli was the moderator and within two hours several topics were discussed around women issues including smart questions from the floor.

This is in a series of evening seminars and discussion the Foundation seeks to do over time in order to bring key issues on the table in civil but yet interesting and intellectual manner. For more of these check out www.namf.ca

In closing Mr. Farouk Khan, the Executive Director remarked that the robust debates between the modern viewpoint and the traditional positions will continue but it’s the opportunity to talk that matters.

CIOG held their 11th Annual dinner

With almost twice the amount of Guyanese out of Guyana out and with a Muslim Diaspora from that only South American English speaking country in GTA around 50,000 you would have heard of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana. Based in Georgetown, Guyana, with an Islamic education and social amelioration mandate, it has grown over its four decades’ life span into an internationally recognized entity with strong political leverage nationally.

The Canadian Support group has tediously labored over the last 11 years to fundraise on behalf of this NGO for various projects, especially the closest to heart- orphan sponsorship and establishing credible academic and Islamic institutions. Last Saturday the IMO was brimming with over 800 attendees as they sat glued in awe as the visiting professor Moulana Siddiq Nasir spoke eloquently about education and its dire importance in a Muslim’s life. That ended his ten days tour of Toronto, lecturing in various mosques on various topics. The Saturday before a gala dinner was held at the Malton Mosque by his close relatives, Ahmad Khaleel and Sadro Usman, in honor of his stalwart contribution towards Islam and family.

The CIOG dinner was honored by the Consul General of Guyana, Mr. Danny Doobay, who conveyed greetings on behalf of the President of Guyana and reminded the audience that the work of the CIOG is seen as an indispensable source of social security in Guyana.

Shaikh Zahir Bacchus did a sterling job in raising almost 30 K’s for the poor recipients while a number of other organizations were awarded plaques of recognition for their continued support. The food was spicy and hot; after all that’s how you describe Guyanese and their cuisine!

Interview with Islamic Scholar, Siddiq Nasir, resident of Trinidad.

Habeeb Alli, freelance journalist, caught up with Moulana at IMO after the CIOG dinner on Sat April 25th. The following is an interview. Moulana had also appeared on two local West Indian radio shows.

Tell us about your Visit to Canada and has it been successful?
I’m here on the invite of the Support Group in order to deliver the main speech on their annual fundraising dinner and to be earlier so I may lecture in several other places. It was a success not only for the fundraiser but to meet many Muslims and share knowledge with them.

What has your Islamic education journey been like?
I have studied theology and Modern thought including Philosophy and Education at the Aleemiya Institute in Pakistan, leaving Guyana at 18.

Sufism is growing among Canadians. Does your practice of Sufism seen related?
Sufism isn’t some alien part of Islam, However, if there are quacks out there this doesn’t mean the whole of this spiritual part must be rejected. One has to search for the Truth.

You have been involved in various Islamic works, can you say what you think is the need of the hour?

I have been involved in Dawah through education and the need of the hour is education. However, the maximum reach is the challenge and the internet is helpful with this. Majority of the Muslims do not attend mosque and hence to reach them one has to be innovative. Making good use of the mainstream media is also important by addressing current social issues.

How do you perceive the Islamic movement becoming in West?
The ongoing Islamophobia produces a positive impact as more interest is created and people continue to accept Islam in numbers, especially after 9/11. The challenges as in the case of all Prophets provide opportunities for the better. Despite the disunity among groups, certain crisis brings the best out of them to unite and Gaza was a good example of this. Kindness knows no labels. Dialogue within the communities will enhance this.

How do you view interfaith dialogue as its usefulness?
On the common challenge of secularism, all faiths can come together as a single force and answer this call. Coming together is for practical issues not for indefinable concepts like extremism and terrorism. This needs deeper thought.

Being a Guyanese of multi cultural background, do see this as advantageous living in the West as a new immigrant?
People who belong to a certain society are better able to understand and even teach Islam there. However, integration may be problematic when one’s Deen is compromised as faith is paramount. It’s for you to find the happy balance.

Among the programs you have attended and conducted in Toronto which one stood out for you?
The Muslims in Guyana are needy and the dinner was very promising, including the management of time. The panel discussion on women was enlightening at NAMF, However, for such programs to be effective greater detail, communication and planning is needed. Such programs are needed.

With the recent visit of President Obama to the Summit do see this having a positive on Muslim in Trinidad?
I don’t think so but there is hope!

What is your parting advice?
Strive to know more and more of Allah’s guidance individually and collectively. My visit has observed improvement of Islam and I hope it continues.

Earth Day is ours!

2009-04-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Is it that we have inherited the earth from our ancestors or we have borowed it from our grand children? Today marks the International recognition of earth day, where remarkably 170 countries join hands with 200 million humans to make this planet a better world. Yet, the sluggish response of my faith community warrants acknowledgment and a quick wake up call.

Eistein once remarked that should bees seize to exist then the human race will fall off the face of existence within four years. Was he in any way referring to the Quranic truth that bees provide an intricate ecosystem that humans depend on? The food chain includes organisms that we can barely see and bodies larger than mountains. So as believers we must realise that this life on earth is not only to pray and hope for Heaven but to execute our Kahlifa or trusteeship, where we leave mother earth in a better shape for her next dwellers. 2:30 Behold, thy Lord said to the angels: "I will create a trustee on earth." Imagine earth has been referred to as a masjid- the most sacred place of worship- so to take care of it and protect it from destroyers is to be highly regarded and rewarded, isn't it?

So congratulations to those who have initiated small steps or huge projects to make life easier and the world greener. The reward is a perpetual charity- called sadaqa jariya- as the Prophet of Islam did state removing a harmful object from one's path is part of Iman/Faith. Nowadays, that can be spelt out as reducing carbon emissions and avoiding dumping toxic wastes in Third World oceans. As a matter of fact with the rising of ocean acidification, by 2030, we'll need two more earths to take care of homo sapiens! It's time, undoubtiably, to reflect on those teachings of Islam that speaks of fiscal responsibilty, as we cannot spend the earth as if there is no tommorrow and then hope for a bailout when the bill arrives in the next generation.

It's time to also call upon religious institutions and spiritual tourism agencies to do some serious house cleaning by employing energy retrofit, including less water usage, turning off computers and electronic appliances and using recyclables in their regular events. Do you see green domes everywhere, well how about green boxes somewhere?

To qoute Yusuf Islam, once Cat Stevens, I found a religion that blended scientific reason with spiritual reality in a unifying faith far removed from the headlines of violence, destruction and terrorism. So in whatever way we choose to leave a cleaner footprint behind, remember it's not about inheritance, vulnerable to sqaundering but borrowing subjected to perfect return.

marriage is love and sex; so don't rape one from the other!

2009-04-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

The hullaballo that has been raised recently on marital rape warrants profound response.
It seems as if the media has found fodder for yet another black on the white cloth of Islam. Worse yet many ignorant adherents have fuelled this rather unculpable attitude towards women with an old fashion idea of sexuality.

The exchange of intimacy between two people is not only out of love and mutual consent but a private and rather divinely inspired event. When force rather than affection, coercion instead of voluntary intent and misunderstanding before accomodation become the rule of any union, then the limbs of such a contract are almost amputated. The next in line is the exit of the soul.

The contention here is- can love can be legislated? How can one force a woman, even if she is a consenting wife, to have conjugal relations every four days, as per media reports, when this feeling isn't conditional to a timetable, is beyond comprehension. Men may more function on numbers but it's a proven fact that women are our angels of emotions and respond with feelings and desires beyond any time frame. She isn't a switch of technology, available to fulfil someone's schedule of lust but herself a diva of beauty, whose satisfaction is equally paramount. Yes, biologically some days are more in the call than others but again to regulate sex to a sense of duty rather than want is simply unnatural. Islam is called the religion of fitra or nature, so thereore I condemn this sort of macho inspired resolution, no mater how politically expedient it may be for some.

Anyone who misqoutes a statement of Islamic text that angels curse a wife that refuses must study the authenticity of such a tradition and more importantly understand the context of its claim. Would this apply in the days where approach is forbidden or during other common reasons of refrain? Therefore, this is as much in her jurisdiction of agreeing as her marriage was. There is no compusion in religion- so says the Quran and similarly when she is uncomfortable there must be understanding- as the Quran again states- stay away from women when they are experiencing discomfort.

The Prophet of Islam would sensitively refrain from intimacy with his wife if she complained of even an eye pain. Of course, foreplay was his key in ensuring satisfaction during intimacy, to the extent the Quran refers to one's spouse as a garden- therefore tilth the soil of love well!

As a matter of fact, He, on whom be peace, condemned those husbands who hurt their wives during the day and then force themselves upon them like animals later. Hurt isn't only physical.

There should never be a disrespectful demand for such a sacred act of highest pleasure. Some cultures find it convenient to call her 'names', hence their attitude exposes their self conceiting pride of sexism. Rather, like magnetism, this ying yang between lovers should be as automatically romantic as the opposing poles are. Again, about this proposed legislation, would she be elligible for divorce in such a rightful refusal, or would she be jailed or stoned for infidelity-worse yet- such as the unjust string of legislations that treat women as chattel in some places? I hope not. So what's the use in the first place to rule publicly, with such immodesty, on an act so private?

It's time this type of domestic violence be ruled unlawful and a surety for women globally be established, that even in the name of marriage- her last vestige of protection- our mothers and daughters are never exploited, regardless.

In the words of Prophet Muhammad, she is a crystal and crystals do not only decorate but must be treated as priceless gems of pride, to be guarded thoroughly, before their inner beauty could be shone for the outer world to enjoy.

So to our sisters in pain, I relish your value not because you are the Eve of every Adam but you complete every man that loves you:- caringly.

Yours truly,

Saintly demise

2009-04-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

Saintly demise

Ilm and leadership.

tribute to Imam Hyaderali- the blessed leader

Gone you haven't
Just stepped out in the Beyond
Memories you stuck with us deeply
Like a tattoo all around

Fierce in your beliefs
Endless effort to spread the truth
Sacrifice of life, family and wealth
You made men out of boys and scholars out of nothing

Embracing the diversity of God
You regarded every neighbour Allah's servant
Love flowed from your life like Kaeiteur
And kindness like Hagar's milk

May your legacy be everlasting
Knowledge, love, kindness and leadership
For in this life there is only one gift
To love and be loved after you're long gone!

Islamic Education: A global essential for women’s defense.

2009-04-07T19:33:00.001-07:00

Islamic Education: A global essential for women’s defense.
If the media doesn’t run a story of a Muslim woman in hijab, or better yet in netted burqa, lacerated by strings of depression on her forehead, on its headline, it would have just lost a photojournalism award on any piece on Islam. The question is does Islam really hate women and relegates them to the back seat of ignorance and husband’s domination? Aren’t Muslims supposed to be the most educated, since the very basis of Islam is llm, or knowing?
The Power of Dialogue
Khawlah was a Muslim woman whose husband Aws pronounced this statement at a moment of anger: "You are to me as the back of my mother." This was held by pagan Arabs to be a statement of divorce which freed the husband from any conjugal responsibility but did not leave the wife free to leave the husband's home or to marry another man. Having heard these words from her husband, Khawlah was in a miserable situation. She went straight to the Prophet of Islam to plead her case. The Prophet was of the opinion that she should be patient since there seemed to be no way out. Khawla kept arguing with the Prophet in an attempt to save her suspended marriage. Shortly, the Quran intervened; Khawla's plea was accepted. The divine verdict abolished this iniquitous custom. One full chapter (Chapter 58) of the Quran whose title is "Almujadilah" or "The Woman Who Pleads" was named after this incident:
"Allah has heard and accepted the statement of the woman who pleads with you (the Prophet) concerning her husband and carries her complaint to Allah, and Allah hears the arguments between both of you for Allah hears and sees all things...." (Quran 58:1).
This easily supports my ever nagging point that women must be educated in all departments of life including, becoming experts on Islamic faith but with a new angle of interactive academy and critical analysis.
Wives are educators
Aisha the beloved youngest wife of the Holy Prophet was regarded as a jewel of Islam, not because she was simply his only virgin wife or she was the pretty daughter of his best friend Abu Bakr Siddiq, but more importantly she was the one who challenged him intellectually. That being smart, outspoken, childish yet loving was her unique characteristic. She took pride in what she did and she did it equally professional. Her integrity was tested in the episode of Ifq/ slandered by a hypocrite and she passed with flying colors. The Quran talks about her exoneration in glowing accolades. Altogether she is the first woman scholar in Islam and has left this rich legacy among women that no matter what you do and what maybe your circumstances, getting a basic education and learning about your faith is the key to success.

I dislike the dichotomy many offer when it comes to secular job based knowledge and divine revelation- they are both important and sacred as the originator of all wisdom is God Almighty, Allah. Lady Aisha taught the people of Medina, including the boys and answered the men and women their repeated questions, for almost half a century, after the Prophet’s demise. If education and seeking the truths of revelation wasn’t the most meaningful part of her life, while being the Prophets’ favorite, then how could she have served so selflessly for so long? She did not wallow in sorrow at the absence of her most beloved and prized gift. She adored him by keeping his mantle burning with her dedicated service. Many a times when this issue of women learning Islam comes up, the image of black covered females takes over. Learning is a duty separate from any other acts in Islam; they all have their own virtues and one should not hinder the other. Being active like Lady Aisha should be paramount and the world have seen many such savants who have not made the ridicule of the narrow minded stop them from dong their duty.

Q 3:110 You are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah.

Humanity comes first

Today our women don’t only have to grapple with issues of daily hygiene and prayers or learning the many ways of worship in Hajj or whilst traveling in the Path of Allah alone but they must be in the know about the more serious social-economic issues of survival and the bombarding political problems of self identity in the media and workplace. Being equipped with the right tools of research and knowing how to handle issues intelligently and wisely makes her stand among the Mother Mary’s of the world and the many Karen Armstrong’s of the West.

You may have noticed how some superstars have become the darlings of the media with their heroic off screen philanthropy? Well this is the humanity that needs to be re-awakened among our people- the hadith says the best of you is she who benefits others.

This is the time when leadership must recognize that 70% of the world are affected by the present economic downturn that’s wringing dry the financial capabilities of those who didn’t even benefit from the credit crunch. Inasmuch, the majority of those feeling the poverty pinch are women and children. Where will they be fed from? Who will supply them drinking water, or save them from HIV or cholera? Will they have a safe place to bow their heads in the night and will their children have the future out of a vicious cycle of ignorance and violence?

Islamic education is meant to not only change the knowledge base of an individual but to bake a character of thoughtfulness and self responsibility. In so doing, many have rid themselves of superstition and custom based lifestyles by studying the deeper meaning of social reform and Islamic theology. Therefore, learning the Quran should never be about exorcising possibly mental health victims for a few dollars but to liberate the mind from mental slavery.

Q 14:1 Book which We have revealed unto you, in order that you may lead mankind out of the depths of darkness into light.

Women should speak up

Instead of relying on a male Imam to defend your rights and to educate against domestic violence, marital rape and endless macho domination, it’s the most powerful en-armament to have an educated sister standing up against these dastardly Un-Islamic practices prevalent in Muslim comminutes across divides. Naturally, the voice of the oppressed is powerful as it sits by the throne of Allah.

Easily a woman would stand in front the undefeatable Umar bin Khatab and question him on his standardization efforts on the maher/dowry- the woman’s inalienable right by divine decree is to accept or refuse whatever bridal price she’s offered. So discussion and dialogue are not alien to Islam but rude attitude and callous behaviors are definitely strange bed fellows to any Faith. So to have women educated on the liberation movement on saving the planet through active greening and faith based environmentalism is an integral nature of women studying the Scriptures in the past. Whatever are the current issues facing globalization today it’s equally our concern and the precedence of its solution is somewhere in our divine text and time-tested tradition. Why did Fatima, the Prophet’s special daughter chose a life of austerity despite being a royal princess and the wife of an able and scholastic Ali bin Talib? It was she knew such a model lifestyle would become the tradition of millions of women, who realize happiness is not rooted in crass shopping but lies in being contented and grateful, and yet still be sassy and sophisticated. Princess Fatima worked with her hands and refused any servants. She is likened to the millions of ladies who work day jobs yet return home to make dinner, help with home work and give company to their husband’s dreams while pursuing studies. They are indeed the servants of Allah but choose to be honorable in their lives not because of anything but simply the Spiritual has strike their core. A woman, the crystals of love and the angels of tenderness, is not a servant of her husband nor children yet alone mother-in-law and father-in-law. She is entitled to her own residence, aides and maintenance plus pocket money! If there is not a critical education of Islam when it comes to women’s issues serious ailments will prevail. Additionally, the main characters of society building, the mothers of our nation, will be paralyzed in executing their duties.

Q 5:67 O Messenger, proclaim the (message) which have sent to you. If you did not then you would not have fulfilled and proclaimed His mission. And Allah will defend you from men (who mean mischief).

Women scientists are real leaders

Isn’t it admirable that recently the world paid tribute to a woman who made her 63 years of adult existence the locus of fighting for women to be educated, to vote, to be treated fairly, to work, to assemble and to receive proper medical treatment in Guyana. She was an American Jewish woman who arrived in colonial Guiana and adopted the Indian culture humbly, while walking from coast to mountain, seeking after justice and equality on others behalf. She is Janet Jagan, sitting besides Mother Theresa and Nelson Mandela on the pedestal of humanity’s self less leaders. Isn’t this what Islam aught to do? It made at least the Prophet and his followers fight against poverty with zakat, against women being treated as chattels with marriage, against girls being buried alive with equalization in dignity and against all forms of gender bias by announcing they are not the Satan that whispered into Adam’s ear. But how will one seek this self dignity and self pride in ones identity when the culture of the triumphant civilization wreaks havoc on your self, your faith, your dress, your ideas, your cuisine and your history? In the traveling museum of Islamic civilization one may be astounded to find these scientists weren’t only bearded men in long flowing robes but so many revered women were pioneers of Science and Islamic thought.

Today the Muslim woman may still be seen oppressed and her issues unsolved but there is light the end of tunnel. See this Gallup's report, Muslim Americans: A National Portrait, which compares the opinions of Muslim Americans with those of the general U.S. population done in USA recently.

The report also reveals that Muslim American women are one of the most highly educated female religious groups in the United States, second only to Jewish American women. In addition, as a group, Muslim Americans have the highest degree of economic gender parity at the high and low ends of the income spectrum.

I would like to paraphrase a quote from Maryam Jameela, the convert American Jewess, who lived in Pakistan for many years and wrote Islam vs the West: That learning about the society where you live makes you appreciate the religion you profess.

Tribute to the Late her Excellency Janet Jagan

2009-04-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

Tribute to the Late her Excellency Janet Jagan

The falcon falls

Embraced the land of six races
The hero of struggle
With rich intellect and motherly bravery
Known fondly as blue-eyed bhoujie

She placed the Indian culture
On the altar of her American dream
And graced the downtrodden with hopes
On barely daubed bottom houses

To the misguided
The ideologue argued in their palaces of honor
Even Palestinians and Cubans you did not forget
Now your legacy too will not be forgotten

Not to be mistaken for her political views
Not everyone agrees with a God-ridden philosophy
But the rights of women and the right to speak
The whole world applauds even in holy places

2009-04-07T18:29:00.000-07:00

Ambitious forum on domestic violence held in Toronto Isn't this an oxymoron- Muslims and domestic violence? But in answer to the seminar held at Dawah Centre on March 22nd this is no longer a myth to leave in denial but a fact of the Muslim communities. Talking about this reality was Sargeant Ruby Dhutt, who has been on duty in the South Asian community in GTA, for years, dealing with this life threatening yet culturally sensitive issue. She ably explained the procedures and laws in dealing with abused women and men, while showing that the fear of losing dignity and face can lead to worse case scenarios.

AbdulHai Pate, honorary doctorate recipient in Islamic service, candidly outlined the Islamic stand on this tragic development and condemned anyone using religion to beat their wives and illtreat their children. Shabbir Ally, the Mosque President, did a wonderful job in moderating the session, which saw a reasonable turnout of both concerned women and men as well as social workers in the diverse community.Habeeb Alli, the Canadian Council of Imams secretary and executive of JamiatulUama Canada, the two hosts, at the end joined the panelists in a workshop that dealth with live examples. He showed how the Quran doesn't uphold beating of women from oft misquoted verse and how the daily usage of language derides the better halves of men. More of these are definitely needed and too book one contact this newspaper or our website- www.canadiancouncilofimams.com

Islamic School principals invited to unite.

Teaching has always been referred to as the thankless profession and being the Principal of an Islamic school definitely will be worse. However, we cannot, as a growing community, making headlines regularly in Canada, miss the opportunity to say thank you to our tireless leaders in this important service of Islam. Last Saturday some forty odd school heads, males and females, were invited by the North American Muslim foundation to a luncheon in recognition of their wonderful work. It was meant to be a social networking and get to know event. While the busy schedules and far distance of some schools in Ontario doesn't allow this yet the response is this should be happening every month. Dialogue is to understaning what blood is to the body. When we stop talking we stop honoring. This effort should be such that a resource centre is set up, as in the US, where Islamic schools may share in resources and learn from meach other. Coming to each other's help and promoting each other without fearof loosing their flock is key to our survival.

Brampton Islamic Centre held their annual dinner

Tucked into the corner of Mclughlin and Lowry, Brampton, is this corporate looking edifice with a distinct looks of a modern Church. A closer look and entry into this beautiful complex reveals a fully operaing mosque, school, gym, food bank, social service and comfort zone. This is how the muddy mosque of Median was in the Prophetic era- minus the heating and carpets! It was almost a one stop shop for vital services and deep spiritual haven. Brampton Islamic Centre, commonly known as Haji Hayat Suunatul, recently celebrated their fourth anniversary with a sumptuous gala dinner. The lay out in the main hall was simply banquetish and more in an ambience of colorful dressed Muslims and plenty happy chatter. Shabbir Ally, as the guest speaker, spoke eloquently on the role of the family and some of the modern challenges. The mosque is expected to provide ahuge and integral help in maing it work as a success story. Habeeb Alli performed the indomitable task of fundrasing for the new ablution/wudu area and functioning health approved kitchen. The current official Imam hails from Barbados and studied in UK and India. He said that he's very grateful for all the attendees and volunteers and hoped from this dinner many will feel committed to further the cause of this mosque which is to make us better Muslims and Canadians.
See bsia.ca for more.

recent happenings in toronto

2009-02-25T11:39:00.000-08:00

Organ donation still a challenge for Muslims

Imagine living without a kidney not because it failed you but you had it donated to suffering Ontarians. Well every three days someone in Ontario dies and could have been saved had they receive an organ donation. Muslims are among the many others who fail to sign their donor cards. Trillium gift of life organization is trying to make a difference in this regards.

Last Tuesday, Feb 17th, many faith leaders attended a special breakfast meeting at Queens Park elegant Victoria room in order to preside over this burning issue. Among the speakers was a Rabbi, an Aboriginal leader from Sudbury, a pastor and an Islamic scholar. The emphasis was resoundingly common: donating to save a person is like doing God’s work and it’s a charity with perpetual rewards.

Habeeb Alli, secretary of the Canadian Council of Imams, prayed for the well being of sufferers and implored upon all to join this sacred mission. More importantly the Council and the JamiatulUlama have been instrumental in preparing a brochure aimed at the Muslim community and their fears of organ donation. That impressive brochure is now in circulation.

See more at giftoflife.on.ca

Synagogue hosts panel on Sacredness of the human body.

You’ve seen students escape prayers although they attend Islamic schools. Well have you heard of Jewish private schools? Some students have issues with not being allowed body piercings or tattoos! Sounds familiar? The Mount Sinai Temple in Toronto thought of having not only a Jewish view point on the body and religion but a Christian and Islamic worldview too.

The event was hosted in the synagogue’s prestigious hall and was attended mainly by Grade 8 students and their parents. The female Rabbi Polonsky of the Temple spoke eloquently on how the body is a temple of the soul and must be respected. Sister Audrey of a Toronto church spoke about ensuring this body returns wholesome. Shaikh Habeeb spoke on how the hygiene of the body leads to safety from satanic whispers, which leads to a more holistic view of the body including avoiding cutting, tattooing and piercing. He also said that contemporary scholars have allowed temporary tattoos and earring piercings as beauty is part of Faith.

One of the parents raised the issue of how gender bias has been influenced by religion and there needs to be some correction to this. And most would concur that while modesty and respect is tantamount to girls this does not debar her from enjoying her life let alone seeking the highest ideals of achievement and worldly status.

Interfaith dialogue really is more than Abrahamic niceties- it helps us have a rounded view of everyday issues- if only we can be open.

Golden rule movie portrays Islam positively

How many times haven’t you heard your mother saying do good unto others as you will want them to do to you? Well that is the age old truth known as the golden rule. Nowadays it’s not only written in scrolls but produced in a movie format. The Scarborro Missions, a leading name in Interfaith in Toronto, is behind the scenes.

Originally, a poster was created with thirteen world religions and their sayings on the Golden rule. Islam was represented by the Hadith- none of you truly believes until he loves for himself what he loves for others. As a matter of fact, this Hadith has been quoted by President Obama, recently, in a national breakfast meeting!

The Mission hosts regular retreats for world religion classes. It had in the past students enacting this rule by skit, songs, art, and poetry. This time a movie was produced by the famous Tina Pretrova, who had earlier produced the film on Rumi- the Poet. Acting are students from a school and their teacher- all representing the different faith through varying fine arts. The quotes of some world religions on the golden rule of life- do unto others what you want them to do to you. Love others the way you want to be loved!

Paul McKenna, the original producer of the golden rule poster and who made a feature appearance in the movie, reminds us that there are over 100 statements from people around the world and from time immemorial that we should live life in a way that we would like others to live with us.

For a copy for your viewing contact Tina at http://www.rumi-turningecstatic.com/ or http://www.scarboromissions.ca/

Family fair second year at NAMF

In the mid winter Toronto is screaming for a getaway. And for one day we have it- the second Monday in February has been declared for Ontarians Family day. And what do you do with this holiday? Definitely a well organized family fair is a smart place to be on that day. NAMF has successfully done that at its large premises in Scarborough.

This year saw a huge crowd of happy participants despite the cold weather. There were lots of ethnic foods, bazaar buzzing with sellers and shoppers, kids jumping on the castle and buying cotton candy and lots of entertainment from comedians, nasheed artists and drummers.

One family commented that they had a wonderful time, especially the affordable food prices at the end! Proceeds of this event go towards paying for the Masjid at Finch and Midland. This 34 000 sq feet property also houses a fulltime Islamic school, a hall for multi functions and a gym. The Masjid is always open to the public, with five daily prayers and Jumauh. Isn’t a Masjid more than a place of worship? Shouldn’t it be the hub of the community?

Mufti Habeebullah Khairabdi visits GTA from India.

Toronto is a famous destination for many top people and Islamic scholars are no exception. Many scholars of varying backgrounds arrive here yearly. This time around Mufti Habeebullah of India visited several mosques in GTA, delivering lectures on Islam in Urdu, which was translated into English.

NAMF hosted the venerable Mufti last Thursday Feb 19th for a session specifically on Questions and Answers on any Fiqh topic. Among the many questions asked and answered were on abortion, organ transplantation, praying in a mosque with gaps in-between, Islamic banking models, domestic violence, etc.

As can be seen there is a thirst for knowledge in the community and many more such forums are needed. One attendee was keen in asking a question on hijab and wants to continue this discussion with others. It’s time our local Ulama jump on this call!

The JamiatulUlama of Canada and Canadian Council of Imams co-hosted this program with NAMF. The Council has started a program of a monthly forum in different masajid where different topics are discussed- the last one was held at Islamic Foundation with Lawyer Mendel Green on immigration and Muslims. The next on is at Dawah Centre, Toronto, on March 21ST.

Dinner held at NAMF on Palestine.

The recent crisis in Gaza is not hidden from anyone. Muslims in Toronto galvanized to different events in order to show their humanitarian solidarity towards the suffering Gazans. North American Muslim Foundation held a dinner in their cause, late January and had a full house.

Ayman Tahir, an original Palestinian, now a chaplain in Toronto, spoke about the issue, both from a historical and Islamic textual point of view. Imam Hamid Slimi fundraised that evening towards helping the cause. A Toronto Rabbi and Pastor also attended, expressing their solidarity.

The question has been how the money will reach the victims, knowing there has been a tight siege and security issue around Gaza.

NAMF has been doing relief work for the last 30 odd years and has a reputation of integrity and effectiveness wherever it went. It has now partnered with a UK based organization- Human Appeal Int, which has legal access into the besieged neighborhood. Again all legalities are been explored and complied with, accordingly, to ensure that money donated doesn’t only reach the needy but arrives there legitimately.

The evening ended with a sumptuous West Indian cuisine and entertainment by Kamal, the Muslim rapper from Mississauga.

Additionally, a group of masajid in Toronto came together to fundraise for the same cause at the Woodbine Banquet Hall in Mid February. Dr Munir elKasem raised the funds that evening, while a few politicians attended, among a myriad of 600 attendees. This group has named its conglomerate ACMO- Association of Muslim Originations.

See www.namf.ca for more details.

Slumdog inspires

2009-02-24T08:58:00.001-08:00

Dear Editor

Exhilaration exploded Sunday night on the platform of this year's Oscars. How long can you contain the back-burnering of Indian-movie- lovers? Slumdog Millionaire did not merely grab numerous awards alone but like Obama, returned smiles on the faces of billions and tears on millions around the world.

I was intrigued to hear AK Rahman humbly but distinctly included the gift of motherhood in his acceptance speech; the divine nature of her love makes it inevitable to celebrate. Added to this awe was his unabashed mention that gratitude belongs to God: God is great, he said.

In deed this was the handing over of recognition not so much to stars and Bollywood optics, a historical page, but rather to Indian civilization and a world once ruled by neo imperialists, who used even the big screen to trivialize dominated nations.

The movie plot attracts special relation to the poverty stricken around the world; that with all the sacrifice one makes in life, there is a lesson to be leant. Sometimes, that lesson becomes the destiny for you to make it and be successful. Also it reminds us that love has no set time or rules, although the destiny that love follows reassures the millions in the world that faith in love is still alive, regardless of the timing and the discipline that may endure.

What may need noting is the statement of Jamal, the main character, when over struck by the massacre of his Muslim mother, that Allah and Ram has caused this grief. Such a statement may had been said at the irresponsible time of grief but the truth of the matter is no God let alone a true faith ever has at its epicenter hate; rather the basis of all faiths is the Golden rule. President Obama has been commended for stating at a breakfast prayer recently, that in Islam there is a statement of the Prophet, Hadith, which declares none of you are true believers until you love for yourself what you love for others.

When a few are ripped by disaster it doesn't mean that the whole world has; when a few are struck by humanity’s iniquity to another it doesn't mean that God is to be blamed. If religion is to be blamed for violence against people, then how come the vast majority of people of faith are peaceful?

Praying that inspiration continues to be our companion and truth the solace of life, sometimes overtaken by disappointments and that hope lights our candle of faith, patience and love always.

Now try being a millionaire!

Yours truly,

Habeeb Alli

Thoughts on VALENTINE

2009-02-24T07:23:00.001-08:00

What amazes me is people who feel they have a franchise over religion quickly leaps on the fatwa bandwagon of condemning anything seemingly Western, regardless if that original history still abides in people's psyche or not. Hajj has had Arab pagan incursions but is quite embraced because Islam restored its purity by modifying it to suit. Why can't that be an example, knowing it's harder to make something allowed and rather maintaining its mubahat than granting it the hot handle of prohibition and hell blazing tiltes. Anyways, I can't contest this cultural lash out as only those who live away from the ghettoes of immigation on the lawns of Western socoieties may be able to avoid tunnel visions.

Where are the thinkers? Yes, Valentine may have origins on whatever Greek myth and Christian reformist doctrines but the question always is: Does Islam allow, pronmote and nurtur Love or not? Yes, this may be a business ploy for globalisation but again the question is can people trade and use and gain from these love exploits? By the way Sunday also has pagan origins and so many other holidays but Muslims still trade on these days, enjoy a day off and accept charities from those businessmen! The World is least concern about the hidden textual debates archaic traditions murmur from their pulpits- they want concrete time tested solutions to their challenges and modern evolving lifestyels.

They want guidance as a Westerner in interacting with a Muslim and a Muslim wants sensible guidance while living in the West. Lashing out will not help. It has never. Sera taught us that the man who loved is a shahid and the girl who disliked her partner was given the right to divorce. Can we start thinking of helping mend hearts and opening avenues of dialogue rather than throwing love in the Fire of harams and bidahs and castigating Islam as the religion of the hateful?!

congratulating awardees

2009-02-24T07:20:00.000-08:00

Awarded on grounds of appreciation
Years of toiling on various hearts
Making some smile
While many pray for your life

Garlanded by the oscar of divine success
You humbly included others
A gesture well meant for angels to cry
How did you do it when he's not at your side?

But hope
Lights the candle of faith, patience and giving
Walk brave young heart
And let the world smile from your soulful sacrifice!

eulogy for an outstanding imam

2009-02-04T07:15:00.001-08:00

Allow me to express my sincerest condolence to the family and friends of Hajji Hyderali of Logwood, who was recently placed to rest after eighty five years of tireless toil. A son of the soil, his love for his the navel string burial site returned him frequently from his new domicile in North America, and now the same soil has received him with thousands of Guyanese hailing what a brave soul and loving heart we just lost.

This father of many wonderful children was a popular name among Guyanese as he plied his trade of tailoring and textile with many across Guyana. I remember his bringing his morning bag to the bank and I was always greeted with a smile- I know how proud he was for me as a student of his madarsa who went onto higher studies. His dedication to politics was one that revelled in the idea that there is no racism in religion and as a nation we must live as one- so when we walked the streets of Golden Grove, his original homeland, in the early 90's, seeking to resurrect the bombed masjid there- all came out to greet, hug and lend a helping hand. Today the mosque by the seaside sings a happy prayer for a servant who left love as the legacy of his religion; not schism.

As most learnt men, the realities of theological differences do not always sit well and this Imam of imams was not left out of this hotbed. He did not refrain from defending his staunchest beliefs of traditionalism and yet he embraced his comrades on the opposite side with respect. This so true that his sojourn in the diverse Americas seem to entrust him further with acceptance- he was seen in Toronto as the emblem of a charismatic, tolerant leader, whose works continue to benefit far and wide. In New York, he is no different as the many lives he has touched has swell the seas with tears and the oceans with grief. A rest is well deserved not in the bowel of soil but in the deeper abyss of Heavenly bliss.

May the leaders, businessmen, fathers and spiritual enthusiast take a page among his many chronicles- that when it's all over and the dust settles on the haven of any soul- it's the passion that you loved with, even if it was for seemingly less bigger things! One saying of the Prophet that resonates from his personal class is -whosoever threads the path of knowledge God facilitates his way to Paradise.

May his loved ones receive solace and inspiration to continue.

Tribute to two heroes

2009-01-27T08:50:00.000-08:00

The recent passing to the great beyond two very endearing elders of the Muslim community in Guyana heralds a bittersweet tribute on their behalf. Ayube Hamid and Shafeeq Khan were leaders, both in the public domain and the religious arena, known equally in the mainstream Guyanese households as darlings of God and humanity. Their passing away evokes a sense of loss- the bitter and the sweet- the satisfaction in knowing they have lived well and are worth every iota of the final rest Heaven promises of such noble souls.

Uncle Ayube, among the many characteristics that many remember and those that I happen to witness, was his passion to treat everyone that came into his interactive world with a sense of belonging and respect. Of course, being a broadcaster and later a tv host, he satisfied this truth and accentuated this exemplary model for a leader when he would put his hands around you and loudly whisper words of advise or simply answer your request. Maybe Obama's phenomenal win, a victory against racial overtures everywhere, at the time of us missing Hajji Hamid, is simply symbolic that this trait will continue to live and be globalised in another- for God works mysteriously.

Shafeek, Imam of Anna Regina, remains an icon of so many young people around the world as he travelled widely spreading the word with a passion and eloquence unmatched. Having been an ardent activist of the Ethnic Relations campaign against violent racialism, he displayed that sense of equananimous regard for all elements of spirituality, while forging his own personal beliefs to the loftiest pinnacles of sainthood- an involuntary award of a wali. The ceasefire this week allowing Gazans to breathe a little easier seems to divinely implies, if you may allow this parlance of sincere altruism, that when one so dedicated to peace and justice moves on and leaves with such an ever present prayer of sincere ceasefire, then his soul is heard before he expires and the manifestation of such a deep-seated wish for a more loving world wakes up, even if in another part of the global family.

I wish them well in the journey to the next world and pray for the wherewithal of endurance to be bestowed no their loved ones. When death arrives it's only because of years of toiling on the altar of righteousness that will allow elegies to be written and prayers to be sounded with such wide sweeping outreaches.

Nothing more, nothing less.

And yes you can!

Ten ways to increase happiness in marriage!

2009-01-12T08:31:00.000-08:00

Ten ways to increase happiness in marriage!

The young and excited bride-and-groom-to-be; ecstatic about the upcoming wedding and marriage and the joy that it will bring. Three to six months later, reality has set in and both spouses realize that marriage is no easy task, but one that takes a great deal of effort and patience. The following are tips for both wives and husbands, to help make the task a little less daunting, and to increase the many rewards that are possible in such a marvelous and complex relationship. Enter the Marriage with the Right Intention and Renew this Often Both spouses should enter the marriage with the pure intention of pleasing Allah, subhanahu wa ta'ala, in order to receive His grace and blessings. The marriage itself then becomes an act of worship and one for which both spouses will be rewarded. Allah will be pleased with them and this will be the most critical element in ensuring peace, stability and happiness throughout the marital life. It is also important to realize that when an act of worship is continued over a long period of time, it becomes necessary to renew one's intention often to remain on the correct path and to obtain the most benefit.

Remember that Your Spouse is also Your Brother or Sister in Islam Too often Muslims treat other people outside the home with kindness and sincerity, but then behave in a very different manner when it comes to their own spouses. Muslims should always remember that one's spouse is also another brother or sister in Islam and that the rights and duties that apply to the general brotherhood (sisterhood) of Islam, should also form the basis of the marital relationship. Obviously, a spouse has rights beyond these, but there should be a clear understanding of the rights of brotherhood (sisterhood) and adherence to these principles.

Do Not Hold Unrealistic Expectations Before marriage, people often have unrealistic ideas about their spouse-to-be, expecting perfection in all aspects. This rarely, if ever, plays out in reality and can lead to unnecessary problems and concerns. We should recall that Allah, subhanahu wa ta'ala, created humans as imperfect beings, which means that many mistakes will be made throughout a lifetime. By turning the table and expecting imperfection, we will be pleasantly surprised and pleased when our spouse is much more than we ever hoped for. This, in turn, will lead to contentment within the marriage.

Emphasize the Best in Your Spouse Since no one is endowed with all of the best qualities, emphasis should be placed on the positive qualities that a spouse possesses. Encouragement, praise, and gratitude should be expressed on a regular basis, which will strengthen these qualities and be beneficial in developing others. An attempt should be made to overlook or ignore negative characteristics, as the Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, said, "A believing man should not have any malice against a believing woman. He may dislike one characteristic in her, but may find another in her which is pleasing." (Muslim) Be Your Mate's Best Friend Try to think of what a best friend means and be one to your spouse. This may mean sharing interests, experiences, dreams, failures and upsets. It may involve understanding a spouse's likes and dislikes and attempting to please him or her in any way possible. A best friend is also usually someone that can be confided to trusted, and relied upon. A spouse should be the kind of friend that one would want to keep throughout life.

Spend Quality Time Together It is not enough to share meals, chores and small talk together. Spouses should also find time to focus on strengthening the relationship. Often couples get busy with their own separate tasks and forget about working on one of the most important elements in life. Quality time may be anything from having a quiet, profound conversation to going for a nice long nature walk, to sharing a special hobby or project. Both spouses should enjoy the particular option chosen and distractions should be kept to a minimum.

Express Feelings Often This is probably a very "Western" concept and one that some people may have difficulty fulfilling, but it is important to be open and honest about one's feelings, both positive and negative. The lines of communication should always be open and any concerns should be brought to the attention of the other spouse as soon as they arise. The rationale of this is that what begins as a simple concern may grow into a major problem if it is not addressed quickly and properly. The "silent treatment" has never been the remedy for anything.

Admit to Mistakes and ask for Forgiveness
Just as we ask Allah to forgive us when we make mistakes, we should also do the same with our spouses. The stronger person is the one who can admit when he or she is wrong, request pardon from the other, and work hard to improve his/her aspects that are in need of change. When a person is unwilling to do this, there will be little growth and development in the marriage. Never Bring up Mistakes of the Past It can be very hurting for another person to be reminded of past mistakes. In Islam, it is generally not recommended to dwell on the past. One may remember errors that were made so that they are not repeated, but this should not be done excessively. Certainly, as humans, we are not in the position to judge another person. Advice may be given, but not in a harmful manner.

Surprise Each Other at Times This may entail bringing home a small gift or flowers, preparing a special meal, dressing up and beautifying oneself (this is not only for women), or sending a secret note in a lunchbox. A little imagination will go a long way here. The idea is to spice up the marriage and avoid getting into a dull routine that may negatively affect the marriage. Have a Sense of Humour This particular aspect can go a long way in preventing arguments and brightening the atmosphere of the home. Life is a constant stream of challenges and tests, and to approach it in a light-hearted manner will help to make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. You may also find that your spouse enjoys this characteristic and looks forward to spending time with you because of it.

Quick Tips for Discussions and Disagreements: Begin with the intention to resolve the issue. If both spouses have this intention and plan to consult together, it is more likely that there will be a successful resolution. Remember that it takes two to quarrel. If only one person chooses not to argue, there will be no argument. Generally, the one who is wrong does most of the talking. Both spouses should not be angry at the same time. If one of the spouses becomes upset, it is best if the other tries to remain calm and collected. Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire. Of course, house fires do not occur very frequently; yelling should occur at about the same rate. Never go to sleep with an argument unsettled. This is one of the worst things that can happen in a marriage and should be avoided as much as possible. This allows hurt feelings and thoughts to linger and generally exacerbates the problem. If one spouse needs to win, let it be your mate. Do not focus on winning yourself; this is the main reason that discussions tend to become heated.

2009-01-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

NAMF 8th Annual dinner

Despite the harsh weather and close to EidulAzha the North American Muslim Foundation held its annual gala dinner on Dec 8th 2008 and it was small but successful event.

Having planned it in advance it was not foreseeable how the holidays and weather will play out. However the fundraiser for the new Masjid Qurtaba at 4140 Finch Ave Scarborough coupled by needs of the earthquake victims in Pakistan made the evening dinner a marked success.

The speakers were simply astounding. Dr Lois Wilson of United Church stirred the sugar in the hearts of the varied attendees as she elaborated on bridging the gap among faiths and cultures. She has been a great inspiration at Massey College for bringing faith into the public discourse. The original speaker Perry Pither couldn’t make it.

Dr Ziyad Delic from Ottawa captivated the crowd with his erudite speech on Arafa and the ways of loving one’s partner. He built on this momentum to fundraise, reciting beautiful Islamic sings and verses of the Quran. It was a unique experience.

One outstanding member of the Muslim community was awarded for her stalwart contributions- Dr. Shanaz Dar, wife of the late Dr. Jameel Dar.

Entertainment that cold evening was warmed up with the famous Raptor performer Quincy Mack and the Torontonian nasheed singer Nadir Khan. The cuisine was a smart mixture of Pakistani and West Indian delights.

Canadian Council of Imams held annual dinner as an Eid get together

Members of the public were invited to dinner and presentation at 4140 Finch Ave Scar- Jameel Dar Convention Hall- on December 13th. This is the third annual dinner held by the Imams and this year it coincided with the EidulAzha celebrations.

Dr Mohamed Iqbal Nadvi, vice chair, spoke bravely on the three aspects of the Council, i.e. helping the Imams, reaching out to the governmental agencies and working with the interfaith bodies. He also touched on the Mumbai massacre. The council had condemned this act of violence and attended some interfaith prayers on the same.

Dr (Hon) Abdul Hai Patel, founder of this 18 years old organization, presented some of the achievements of 2008. This included attending a G8 faith leaders’ conference in Japan against poverty, preparing a curriculum to accommodate Muslim students in the school system, preparing chaplains for the armed forces and the prisons and presenting Islam in many interfaith forums. The council has been collaborating with Canadian Council of Muslim theologians on matters of halal and divorces.

The dinner was a sumptuous mix of biryani, thanks to the Qurbani gifts of the Imams’ followers! And entertainment was by the young artistic Kamal IMPACT from Mississauga.

Now tell me how can Imams de deemed scary!

Interfaith Eid dinner

Imagine being invited to a dinner in the name of Eid but the food is not another biryani pot and the attendees are not all desi or brown!

Well luckily we have people who still maintain the diversity of Islam in their works and lives. The Shahid Akhtar family of Mississauga initiated a dinner in the name of EidulAzha and had invited Muslims, Christians and Jews in their lovely home on December 12th 2008.

It was basically to eat and socialize. Well it was more – the food for thought was well relished as we had warm conversations on religion, politics, and cultures plus even what we do to make the society better. That should be the nexus of faith, isn’t?

Entertainment that evening was by the son Kamal and his Sikh friend doing a wave of hip hop and bhangra drumming. Habeeb recited a poem on Abraham’s love- a love that is so accepted that he was not forced to relinquish one for another.

Shahid Akhtar and Barbara Landau are co chairs of the almost two decades old Muslim Jewish Dialogue.

IFFSA Hosts second New Year's gala in Edmonton.

Having a wild time at Christmas and New Years is not what these Muslim professionals had in mind last December 28th in Edmonton. Organised by a youth group, the second new years dinner attracted alomst a hundred singles, mostly professionals. According to chair, Jawad Chaudry, the need is to provide a comfortable halal means of social outing that would facilitate networking.

Being in smaller communities oportunities of meeting a potential spouse is limited. Alisha Aashary helped oraganise this event as part of her social work portfolio at this Islamic Service centre. Brighly dressed to impress, these smart and successful Muslims were treated to a passionate yet informative and well interactive session on relationships by Shaikh Habeeb Alli of Toronto. On site was also a RCMP officer who is working with the Mulsim youths of Edmonton.They too have their issues- so Toronto it's time to help!

Shaikh Bin Bayya deals with Minority fiqh in Toronto

Sitting on the table were Sh Hamza Yusuf, Abdalla bin Bayya, and Abdulla Idris. That was not just for a nice pose at the Royal York last Saturday Jan 3rd. In attendance were both scholars and leaders of the comunity, males and females. The topic was Muslim minotrities and how to deal with issues of Sharia in their contrained settings. Sh Hamza translated while bin Bayya, a notable scholar from Mauritiania explained and answered. His main thesis is the Sharia has rules and those rule accomodate people of all circumstances. Among some instruments that may be employed to guide Muslim minorities is necessities overide prohibition and easing the difficulty oversteps the actual ruling.

Many questions were answered from the floor including calendar usage for Ramadan, Islamic finance and its validity as well as facilitating Muslims in summer during Ramadan in the cold North. The founder of a global network of scholars also emphasised that following law of the land is paramount and only in private laws one can exercise lobbying power to find accomodation of one's tenets reasonably. More sessions like these are definitely needed and it doesn't have be only when a notable scholar visits Toronto

FAITH AND SEXUALITY

2008-12-24T09:28:00.000-08:00

Faith and sexuality are hand in glove concepts of life

I MUST congratulate writer Nazma Muller, d.d 23/12/08, for taking up such a challenging topic as religion and porn.

What I would like to point out is faith and sexuality are hand in glove concepts of life; it's religion that makes it look alien and taboo. Just as soul mates don't just happen - they're wired to evolve into a feeling of intimacy and connection, so too the public must be educated that commercial sex is not the same as a love based relationship. I hate when people lash out that Caribbean men aren't romantic; couldn't all that sand and sea do something?

If you just look at the Prophets they were in fertile unions, note the S, hence not against sexuality and unabashedly they spoke of it openly in their sermons - the Scriptures bear testimony to this faithful tenet, referring to it as a blessing without any reproduction strings attached.

So having workshops on sexuality and youths is a prime priority that faith leaders must concern themselves with, not only for the younger congregation but all devotees - enough of the rights and wrongs and dos and don'ts and time to listen what challenges our faith professed flock are irking about; drawn into a new mystically erotic era beyond their grannies' fantasies.
Maybe with a more satisfied sexual encounter, where both respect and pleasure remix like parang and hip hop aloud, our congregations will grow and faith will become more apparent like your sunshine island, who knows?

Please also remember Bill Cosby's cynical comment, it works: “Sex education may be a good idea in the schools, but I don't believe the kids should be given homework”

One Love!
HABEEB ALLI

MERRY CHRISTMAS- MY DAYS!

2008-12-15T11:18:00.000-08:00

I grew up on the precious memories of a warm rainy Christmas in Guyana where mommy's cooking of pepperpot and baking of back cake and friends partying all night Christmas Eve sticks to my happy face like a Santa tattoo! In those days my going to Sunday school and being left with my black catholic neighbors was no mere prank-although it was sheer fun- maybe it was for exposure to interfaith in a more experienced way than a philosophy- I still rememeber the music chair at the kids chirstmas party and yes we made our own masqurade bands going aroung the hood receiving money and plenty sweet mouth to eat!

Jesus I learnt later was really the baby whose birth day is being celebrated and leven ater that Muslims believe in Esa the son of Virgin Mary with deep love and respect. I wish we could make the world understand that Jesus is not the source of hatred and religion is not the source of violence- if we could only celebrate again- this world will be better! Oh how those days were filled with family and friends- sharing and enjoying!

That's why I have decided since last year to donate our EidulAzha meat donations to the Yonge Street mission, Toronto, since I saw the face of a needy man being advertised in the newspaper by the mission seeking a Christmas gift for the needy. Merry Christmas! oh I was at my kids school concert and they mushed all the hoildays of December into a holiday of lights concert- man what hapnedd to good old christmas concert? Is this PC tinge going too far?!

Happy Holidays

dont beat kids!

2008-12-15T10:12:00.000-08:00

I think beating children is haram and for learning Quran it's even more dumb- I think I maybe far from being a Qari because the trauma of entering tajweed clases still resonate withing my psyche- I saw boys tied and beaten and I was sickened so I tried hard to move out of that 'boot camp' only to feel further fear- until my freedom escape to Deoband! Gosh I remember those of daily phobia- was it to revere or was it to simply be scared to death?! Anyways people say don't air your dirty laundry but these ustads don't learn- after many workshops and meeting with the Toronto Police these metropolitan villagers are still murghing and pitaing our future sons and daughters of Islam- Ibn Taimiya has compiled 12 ahadith in his tarbiyatulawlad about how forbiden this practise is yet some asaatiza would say beating is barkat for learning- how much more dumb and khurafati can it get?

As a trustee of a Darulullom I have been able to ban beating and its like to any student but from time to time some teachers get mad and slap the kids- so we have done disciplinary alternative workshops- some things work like tellling the parents and some don't like writing lines and making extra nawafil or punishing the whole class! So for academic education the system spends millions studying child psychology but for divine education we depend upon the stick although it's absolutely non sunnah- it's domestic violence at its best rather those who say the hadith says beat the kids when they are 10 to pray are far from any fiqh of hadith- how can brutalisation and opening the doors of of making our children hate Islam be anything close to this insightful naseha. DARB also means pampering with love- I know one hafiz would get chocolates and money for doing his saback not a mouthful of venom and fistful of head bangs!

It's time madressaS sign a convention in the r locality that all madressas- at home or at mosque or wherever that beating will not be allowed, police check is a must for teachers and twice a year workshops are mandatory before renewal of contract-and parents must also sign unto this. Islamically we know that when thing sget out of hand then a zero tolerance policy is perfectly acceptable- like cutting down the tree of Ridwan by Umar bin Kattab. Also children must never be taught to hide this absue and not call 911 as this is purely miseducation- if their house is on fire or someone is dying or even they were being bullyied by another shouldn't they call 911?

Once I was at a UN forum on child absue and the reality of our madressas' homos suddenly dawned- experts are saying that beating a kid especially benching may lead to homosexual tendencies! Well we know for sure girls sexuallly abused at young age can become hoplessly promiscuous. Love, patience, objective structuring of the course and being an inspiration makes a good teacher and a hence a great student- it can be but do we want to let it happen? Some teachers have been charged for this crime and it's good to let others know of such a painful consequence.

Children are precious gifts: we make them but we don't make their minds!

Muslims convened in Winnipeg on social services

2008-12-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

Muslims convened in Winnipeg on social services

Jumping out of your beach pants and sandals these days happens with a deep sigh but when it’s flying from Toronto to Winnipeg it feels as if you just left Barbados! Well not when it’s for the good of the thousands of Muslims fixed in endless social problems. The Islamic Social Services Association, Inc-Canada hosted a conference to deliberate, train and network with others in this field and it was indeed a resounding success.

Among the organizers and speakers was the famous Shahina Siddiqui, who founded this organization some ten years ago, with chapters in USA and UK. She believes this is the greatest need of the hour and Muslims can only solve their social woes if they combine the insight available in mainstream social agencies with the Islamic perspective. Well this type of fusion was surely in abundance this weekend- Nov 21st-24th 2008 at the Hilton Suites.

Dr. Aneesah Nadir from USA, inspired us with the story of a revert, after 30 years, struggling in the mill of acceptance. Moreso her position on premarital advisement is if you can’t figure it before marriage then you would hardly after- so Imams shouldn’t do the ceremony without couples first sitting for at least 6 sessions of advisement.

Salma Abugeideiri did a wonderful job of presenting issues on domestic violence within the Islamic framework of Quran and Sunna and coupled with her years of experience. This problem, no matter how much the community may be in denial, will not go away by wishful thoughts and few Khutba- it’s time to make it a national disaster as thousands of Muslims are victims, men and women, and the social workers are just a handful. She believes that help should not be at the battered stage but prevention education must start in school.

Attendees came from as far as Texas, Imam Yaseen Shaikh; Calgary in the West and of course Toronto from the East. The Canadian Council of Imams was represented by its secretary Habeeb Alli and the Canadian Council of Muslim Theologians by its executive member Hafiz Faizan. Another group represented there was 1866-NASEEHA - the toll free Muslim Youth Helpline that serves North American callers. Additionally, there was representation from the Jaffari Centre - who is doing an outstanding job with their fulltime staffed community support services. Others included Sister Noha, Sister Kameleh, Ommar, and Sayed Ali Adeli.

Among the other topics discussed were addictions, mental health, sexual problems, marriage and divorce, leadership, youths and gangterism, children welfare and new immigrant counseling, depression, gambling, etc.

This is an ongoing training organization and anywhere this is needed the personnel are willing to attend, organize, and consult.

One attendee stated: It prompted me to explore my options as to taking up marriage and family therapy, as it would help me as an Imam.

Some useful websites: issaservices.com, peacefulfamuilies.org, faithandmedia.org, newdirections.mb.ca, myselfhelp.com, www.getgamblingfacts.ca, canadiancouncilofiamms.com, www.naseeha.net, http://moodgym.anu.edu.au/welcome

2008-12-04T11:44:00.000-08:00

I would like to express our deepest shock and disgust at the Bombings and taking of hostages in Mumbai, India. We the members of religious leadership of Canadian Muslims, strongly condemn these terrorist acts, resulting in loss of many innocent lives and injuring hundreds others.

Canadian Muslims join the international community in grieving this tragedy and strongly condemn these cowardly acts. We hope that the perpetrators of such heinous acts are quickly brought to justice.

Acts like these are an awful exercise of rationalization and must be condemned unequivocally.

poem on Abraham's love

2008-12-04T11:43:00.000-08:00

Abraham to God: Je souviens!
But have we forgotten?

So thus the fear
Every heart trembles at
Whose love will survive
the tsunamis of hurt?

In relinquishing a part of us
The trauma
Erases even the sunshine
Off the summer face

Did Abraham love God and no other?
Was the passion for a son, his only
plus belonging to Hagar
Burnt him like a candle in his Lord’s displeasure?

In trying to loose Ishamel
He was to prove his love was divine and unconditional
And it belongs elsewhere
And never these two mortals

But the Absolute knows it
and so today we relinquish
Only a few kilos of lamb, a donation, maybe online
Calling it the souvenir of Father Abraham.

Yours too
I’m sure is a story
Of where you loved and share
And your anxiety is never be the sacrificial lamb!

Willingness is such
That in being prepared to sacrifice
But fearful of the loss
God will grant both loves, on His behalf!

Habeeb Alli

What is Qurbani? and EidulAzha?

2008-11-13T12:13:00.000-08:00

Qurbani is the annual sacrifice performed by Muslims in commemoration of Abraham's intention to offer God his only son, Ishmael. Such ultimate dedication was accepted by God through a dream in the form of a lamb. Abraham instead sacrificed lambs and distributed the meat as per his norm of being charitable. Later on, this tradition took roots in Mecca, the city of his making.

Today, in keeping with Islam's origin to Abrahamic Culture, - pilgrimage, circumcision and a host of other religious acts, Muslims who can afford this donation are obligated to. For the most part the price of a sheep or a goat or even 1/7 of a cow is paid and the meat distributed to the poor and needy.

While many are not privileged to have the time and access to actually perform the slaughter, especially in modern societies, many bona fide charitable organizations will accept the amount and have the act performed in some underprivileged place in the world. The price is about CDN 230.00 for a sheep and the meat can be consumed by oneself, by friends and neighbors, albeit the destitute deservingly are mostly the recipients.

The prayer at the time of the sacrifice remains one as in making any domesticated animal halal for consumption-blessing the meat by mentioning God's name (Bismillah), the source of life and the prayer for acceptance finalizes the act- Oh Allah accept from us as you did from Abraham! The intention of the devotee is considered made at the time of paying the amount and hence there is no need for publication of names and lengthy litanies, however, the mention of it doesn't invalidate the act.

Finally this is not a senseless ritualistic ruin of animals but rather an act of charity that has deeper roots into an historical act, done by a Prophet shared by world religions, of great self sacrifice. Today he remains an emblem of unity and icon for alleviation of poverty through this pro bono act of religious charity. Muslims should therefore think of those daily food banks when planning their Qurbani as this meat is good for all humanity.

EidulAzha is the festival when this act is performed, mostly three days, commencing just after the performance of the pilgrimage to Mecca. The Hijra calendar marks it as 10th of ZilHijja and this year it may fall on Tuesday, December 9th, as per calculated predictions.

Be what day it is, this time of Eid doesn’t usually get the same fanfare like the Eid of Feast. But shouldn't Eid be festive and filled with jubilation? After all this is also thanksgiving for having Ishmael's life saved and God making it easy that purchasing a simple goat is enough to display rather fulfill the need for divine approval in the devotee-God circle of love.

Obama’s victory

2008-11-06T08:03:00.000-08:00

Obama’s victory

And how can one not be romantic about President Obama's win? I cried tears of joy and poured prayers of gratitude and protection, that while many have sought him with demeaning names, his conviction for change was marvelously answered- like the Secret magic or rather the Moses rising out of the wicker basket in the drowning ocean of two centuries of slavery. But definitely the divine intervention to have a Muslim-sounding-name American of black ancestry to sit in the White House, while many pundits of doom scattered our horizons with otherwise disdain, is democratically reassuring. Will the Third World and the Muslim lands kindly stand with renewed vigor and peaceful discipline in their electoral challenges?

While racism has not ended, it has sure made an opening for exit. Yes, the many times Muslims felt alienated only to be brought back into the circle of love by no lesser a person like Collin Powel speaks volumes that an inclusive process is the sure strategy of a successful democracy. May this inspire the rest of the world where the price of the same is the costly price of lives and dignity! The Prophet of Medina established the precedents of having the will of the people decide when he signed the treaty among the religious groups of that city and when he ruled by shura or collective consultation. Once more the tears of my reflection gathered momentum upon the sight of 104 years old African woman saying she couldn't have exercised her right being a woman and a person of different color.

My heart throbbed grievously that Brother Malcolm seem oblivious as the remarks of others triumphed in credit. But this was his dream- a vision where colour was absent but ideas flourished, where class vanished but character reigned and where the superficial clout of wealth and power disintegrates while faith and trust fly high. Inspired he was from Muhammad, the great world leader, who made not only persons of different country and color one of his own but he made it forbidden to insult anyone of such- there is no black or white and no Arab and non Arab but yes there will always be respect for piety and good works.

So at a time when the world wants the end of violence, when Muslims are tired answering about their religion's peaceful stand in the jury box of opinions and when jobs are loss to mega bucks protection, this is the time to not only hope for change but collectively work to make that inspiration not become thin flurries on the plains of life sunny challenges. Now we are not onto a destination so much as we are on a journey.

Abu Bakr, the first Caliph, rightly said in his acceptance speech some 1400 years ago, preserved until today without the help of you tube, fellow citizens correct me if I err as that would be dearer that following me in error. I am hopeful when I heard our brother Barack said he will listen more to the disagreeing opinions- yes it's time we do not only listen but hear- for something divine may come out of our global poverty of virtue and absence of environmental well being.

Dale Carnegie said it mostly aptly: Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.

Q 13:11 says: Verily never will God change the condition of a people until they change it themselves. Congrats to him and all his supporters and thank you for your time- may this world be a better place.

ThanksGiving for real!

2008-10-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

So Thanksgiving is about that
Among the endless list of divine gifts
To register deep within what Canada has done for you
The gratitiude of finding heaven right here on earth!

Interfaith at UFT

2008-09-18T10:07:00.002-07:00

Interfaith at UFT

If you haven’t met Fr. Terry Gallagher you have missed almost half of your life of warmth and true respect for Islam from a practicing Christian. This Ramadan he hosted the youth council at UFT Multi Faith Centre, Toronto. This was in collaboration with the Scarborro Missions. Earlier this summer one of their outstanding reverends, David Warren spoke at dinner with Dr Munir El Kassem on poverty and what Jesus would have done about it at NAMF.

While the Muslim presence was near absent the UFT conference, read Ramadan blues and not being on a school day, the discussions centered around how youths can make a difference through their spirituality and social activism. What is respect; love and spirituality were among the topics discussed.

Over and over again we are told about the importance of joining hands in combating social problems. We are invited repeatedly to lend support on interfaith initiatives. But how many times we ourselves are the organizers of such events? Before Ramadan a debate was organized at North America Muslim foundation convention hall where Jonathan Kay front the National Post and Dr David Liepert from Calgary challenged each other on freedom of speech versus freedom of religion. The audience was definitely a mixture of religious backgrounds. The session ended respectfully with lots of Q/A thanks to the Faith of Life network support. More of these sessions are definitely needed. As a matter of fact a session of elections and what it will do for Muslims in Canada is much needed.

Ramadan’s Ranting: Reflections around September 2008

2008-09-18T10:07:00.001-07:00

Ramadan’s Ranting: Reflections around September 2008

Allow me to greet our world of good citizens and spiritual revelers a special Ramadan happiness. As we watch the world, again, unravel their layers of spiritual energy, I just want to reflect on some lessons. With Obamania bouncing around us it behooves the spirit to really take this quick teaspoon of "hope-filling" medicine. After 9/11 the world definitely hasn't been the same. And with all the despair, wars, disasters, racism, economic woes and everything else that spells doom encircle us, a thrust for hope and faith make the best appeal. Ramadan gives us too that hope after a year long, and for some, more, of wallowing in sins, despairing of God's mercy and forgiveness. Can we see ourselves rejoicing in the same spirit though? Also the passing way of two important figures in the religious world recently in the West tells me that good and progressive scholars are so valuable; I still think the zealots and narrow-minded leaders can't get the same value, regardless of how much they shout. Imam WarithDeen from the States shouldered the legacy of the Nation Of Islam from his father Elija Muhammed with an astute scholarship and dedicated and wise endurance that he changed the landscape of America from a black racist movement into a mainstream all embracing social order. He will be missed.

Moulana Shafee Akalwaya from Trinidad died in Tortula after a heart attack and will be remembered for his tireless years around the Latin America and the Caribbean. He brought joy and rejuvenation to the millions he touched throughout his long years here. He has left those smiles still behind. And so too will your soul receive grace as you prepare in this sojourn all the good things Ramadan and otherwise bring with it.

Fortunate for us in Canada we do enjoy a plethora of Scholars locally who are quite erudite and also visits of special experts from overseas. One such eminent teacher is ShaikhulHadith at DarulUloom Deoband, India, Mufti Saeed Planpuri, who was, as usual, was quite inspiring and deeply relevant. Lastly Open Air Iftar at the Nathan Philips Square, Toronto recently taught us, and proudly so, that respect for religion is ingrained in our genes. We gave a day for our religious community and enjoyed each other's presentations and food, while making the world feel warmer and safer. This is the second year the TARIC Mosque is putting on this free public spirited event where all are welcome.

So with lots of new places bouncing back and Taraweeh buzzing the air, including some young local Hafiz the prospect of a spiritual growth in Toronto is quite promising. Yes our mosques projects are still demanding, in total, for all the unfinished work, almost 23M. Generosity is one thing and knowing this is Allah’s house and He will take care of it is another.

Yes, our prayers have been answered. Safe and happy is what life should be. After Ramadan is Eid- the time to rejoice at the harvest of good deeds and self sacrifice. Well with the loads of Eid dinner in the planning, and rightly so, we will still relish the taste of samosas and biryani but savored with the self edification that it’s after a day’s hunger, rather a month of hard work. May it be good and easy and may the starving ones and helpless ones never be deprived from our charity and love.

Ramadan Message

2008-09-01T13:37:00.000-07:00

Respected Muslim

Assalam U Alaikum

Ramadan Greetings!

The guest has arrived. Long awaited; filed with vigor, she has piled us with divine goodies.

We are indeed grateful for this wonderful opportunity, presented to us yearly, without elaborate travel arrangements. Should her profound value to offer change be overlooked? Should her tax free and timely returns be dismissed lightly?

Ramadan has never been a burdensome season for the Early Muslims, despite the paucity of funds, lack of resources and the regular devastations. Therefore for us in this century of progress and abundance, this guest must not be allowed to come and go without fanfare. Let steep materialism not make us oblivious of Allah’s special gifts. We complain too much and thank way less for our countless gifts. An average Canadian has 200 extra unnecessary item stored somewhere, that they can easily convert someone’s misery into bliss. The wastage of food is epidemic. The indifference towards the needy, especially at home and grossly abroad, has become second nature. This should be the sin we’re praying forgiveness for every chance we get this year.

Ramadan makes us realize that change begins with us. We must be that machine to turn the wheels of lethargy and make the power of Iman work miracles. Allah says it’s not enough to wish away poverty and fantasize happiness- we must make it our mandate to make the world a better place by practical steps. Verily never will Allah change the condition of a people until they change it themselves (with their own souls). Q13:11

Zakah, Iftar, fasting, Taraweeh, Itkaf, Umra, visiting mosques and relatives, attending fundraisers and listening to different Hafiz and Ulama, all provide this much needed need tool of change in a world that socially contracts itself away from virtue and Godliness.

The Prophet said: He who provides for the breaking of the fast of another person earns the same merit as the one who was observing fast without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter (Tirmidhi).

Let’s recognize what our centre provides for our salvation, not only today but throughout the year. Think of the level of commitment it takes, and even though we may not get it perfect, it’s still better to fail in doing it right than not doing it at all. Your prayers and opinions are most welcome as much as you during the Blessed Month.

Spice up your sex life- it's all halal!

2008-08-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20061203/islamic_sex_061203?s_name=&no_ads

Need to have more programs on this topic- I have done some of this kind of a workshop - and there is a demand for it- my website on allexperts.com has some of these too. Chemistry between two people happens on different levels and marriage doesn't guarantee all of those always.

Hence the need to connect with each other away from some of the roadblocks of intimacy- kids, non dressing up for each other, lack of travel together, lack of not doing community work or adventurous chores together, endless exposure to others, the syndrome of comparisson, etc. suggested ways of help- a counsellor will also suggest much these and the Sharia covers lots of ground under mubah foreplay:

Seek a getaway

Purchase lingerie's for her- give hints

Have candlelight dinners- soft music in the backgroun- if you're into that

Enjoy sexual conversations and jokes in privacy

Open communication- search where are each others erogenous spots

Look for each other turn-offs and turn-ons

Ensure the sex is spontaneous sometimes

The man must smell good, dress up and foreplay the wife more than just a slam down event!

The wife must seek creative ways of massaging, kama sutra or perfume garden helps in this lots!

Sexual exploration is an open field- I mean a huge open field except maybe anal sex for some Ulama- so never stop surprising each other!

Books and other media exposure helpsor even discussion groups as removing inhibitions is a educational process that needs cooperation from society.

Lots of taboo on sex has to be cleared by the Ulama-endless stuff in peopels minds that parents and others said is haraam or bad but its not!

2:223 Your wives are as a tilth unto you; so approach your tilth when or how ye will; but do some good act for your souls beforehand; and fear Allah. And know that ye are to meet Him (in the Hereafter), and give (these) good tidings to those who believe.

Tilth represents the preparation of one's garden and in this case the foreplay and even the afterplay and romance that comes with sexual territory. Time and patience are crucial to making sex appealing and creative.

The Prophet hated when men would jump like beasts on their wives and he warned if you donot dress for each other and look attactive then adultery will be your lot.

Looking at each other naked, oral sex and romantic spa moments all fall within the mubah and allowed grounds of preparing the tilth- so never stop oh gardeners of love!

Do you know Aisha, may Allah be pelased with her, bathed with her husband, on whom be peace, in the same bathtub and she would recite love poetry for him and he would for her? Do you know she would run races with him and kiss him each time he leaves home?

Enjoy!

Tragic demise of Akbar is al ost to all Guyanese and humanity.

2008-08-06T08:24:00.000-07:00

Allow me to share my deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the late Akbar Alli of Logwood. This tragic ending of a young husband and cold blooded ruin of a father of two young souls, resonates a terrible pain that sits undigested in the souls of thousands, who know him and who don't. I am far way from home but can still see that smile on Akbar's face.

Having known him for almost fifteen years, as he moved from Bush Lot to study Islam at Zeeburg, he temporarily stayed in Enmore by his aunt along with his friend. He later married and lived in Logwood. Having run a trucking service for years, transporting sugar workers and recently selling scrap metal, Akbar has always proven to be that ambitious hard working young Guyanese, who will stay and make the best of any halal venture. He's such a loving person that anyone can get help from him and no matter how much you may anger him or be preachy he would respond with a sweet smile of gentlemanness. While he did not build the nearby mosque in Logwood, he definitely contributed immensely to its present form and substance. Akbar you will surely be missed. And his closest friends were not only Indo Guyanese- visit his mosque or his home-service and you'll see.

Snuffing out his life is indeed senseless and animalistic. While the family mourns and many try to awaken from this life-altering shock, we are left with more questions than answers. Yes, as Muslims we say it's his time. We find solace in the fact that death is pre-calculated and everyone has to leave on his appointed time. Yet the heart will not accept easily, in the thick of grievance, the tragic death of a son of Guyana, who has always lived with love and peace, being charitable and managing his business the best way possible. Imagine the terrible sadness his kids will grow with? Of course, we pray they all receive closure soon. What about his lovely wife who stood by his side, in good and bad, being the perfect choice of his love? She witnessed it. The money was taken, so why shoot him? Handing these mindless robbers the money is the right thing to do rather than life, but that too seems not to work.

The irony of this happening at the vicinity of protection and him expiring at the threshold of life-saving adds to the mental turmoil. Will better security of transporting large sums of money be implemented, scrutiny of elements at financial stores and easier access for businessmen to be licensed be looked into? This lost has indeed united the communities, as people of varying religious organisations rally to engage in Akbar's funeral. But will pressure be put, with that united voice, on protesting the further decay of security and respect of life? How many have to die before the excuse of deportees and limited resources will be thrown out? I have to mourn, as much as I have to seek grace when I think of these murderous loose canons. Just as Muhammad forgave the marauding Quraish or Jesus let go of the Pharisees, I'm sure Akbar's place in Heaven will make him let go vengeful hate , that seems to serenade every conversation. However, this does not mean justice and security will have to be compromised and the pains of this grieving family have to be balm with the downpours of oblivion.

The present drama out of Toronto called Sweet Karaila jettisons us into the deeper knowledge of what happens when callous individuals seek quick gratification without respect for anyone - not even family and life. It also reminds us that the myth of racism is as week as Eldorado and its seeking. Hope Guyanese gets to see it when it comes to Carifesta and take heed- that crime has no colours. Yet how much condemnation have we received, how many are working to heal, and who is willing to educate our people that crime doesn't pay.

May the families find patience and the deceased rest in peace. May the police be guided sooner and grace storm our nation. Last year another brother was gunned in Corentyne trying to save his son from robbers. Today he's semi paralysed and the community seems to move on, forgetting these victims are our our own sons of a magnificent contribution. But who cares? To Sister Romeena, Hajji Hyder's grand daughter and Akbar's wife: love is powerful and your life with him was well worth every drop of it. Once there is life there is hope. The Quran says in 5:32 "On that account: We ordained for the Children of Israel that if any one slew a person - unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land - it would be as if he slew the whole people: and if any one saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people. "

Love so powerful

2008-07-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

Amazing Grace in the twinning of Firaz and Candy

Good things come to those who wait
And so it is Firaz and Candy’s date

A journey of two hearts
Tickled and giggled, a twin of life-smarts

Love birds of an intriguing nature
The canje pheasant weds the humming bird, so pure

While nightingales serenade gracious guests
From Vancouver flutters lovely canaries in their nests

Off and On
Whether the compatibility

Lower the bar goes the song
And love will climb over quickly

Like your loved ones’ success
Like your Prophet’s love so numerous

Criticize, challenge but do protect
And every sunrise will be like today, so perfect

Candy, the epitome of modesty
Firaz, the pinnacle of care and self dignity

In twinning each other’s quality
Alas, a marriage of longevity.
Oh Allah, Ameen!

News of Muslims Events in Toronto for June 2008

2008-07-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

IMO celebrates its 10th anniversary with great pomp and inclusiveness.

After ten years on the ground, the famous Masjid and banquet hall, International Muslim Organization, IMO recently held its anniversary. While some would think this should have been a free program where all can come, the majority seem to agree that it’s time our Masjid gets the rightful honor with a pomp and camaraderie like any of the gala diners organizations put on.

In attendance, among notable others, were great leaders of the community, many donors and friends of IMO from as far as Waterloo and even abroad.

Imam Shibly was around, a former IMO Imam now in Edmonton who emphasized the Dawa to Canadians and Moulana Faiz from UK, who emphasized educating the youths.

Imam H Slimi, present Imam, reminded us of the past and its struggles and the vision forward- youths and their activities.

President Umar Farouk was right when he said some time back: “We take it as a task upon ourselves to establish good relations with both our fellow Muslims and fellow Canadians. Both of our spiritual and administrative leadership are working for more educational and youth programs as well as the Muslim Community Development in all fields and domains. There is a lot to be done to empower the Muslim individuals especially in terms of education, social welfare and spiritual guidance. Our counseling sessions and daily and weekly programs are meant to answer the needs of the community members.”

Habeeb Alli presented a poem on IMO, recalling the fact that it’s the women who are the real backbone of this successful multi-faceted organization. See www.imooftoronto.com

ISARC fights poverty through the Interfaith powers

The power of Faith is often reengaged to that of a hidden spiritual world. How often social justice means the difference your religion can make in reducing poverty or fighting AIDS?

Interfaith Social Assistance Reform Coalition was formed a few years ago to reduce poverty in the province of Ontario. Recently a conference was held in a beautiful resort in the Northern town of Keswick. These two days deliberation was attended by many Christians, Jews, Muslims and Hindus. The organization mandates itself in collaborating as Faith leaders and make a positive, non violent, advocacy towards policy makers since 49 per cent of Canadians claim they are only a pay check or two away from poverty.

The Canadian Council of Imams is a participatory member and while Imam AbdulHai Patel was way on another anti poverty conference in Japan, Imam Habeeb Alli, secretary of the CCI attended. A wonderful presentation on the Golden Rule was presented by Paul McKenna and the continuous advocacy through attending the Deb Mathews public deliberations, media coverage and writing to the political parties.

Muslims are significantly affected by this poverty as they make up the majority of immigrants but it was also noted that many Canadians born here are also suffering and with rising cost of living definitely something has to be done to save us from poverty. Poverty breeds disbelief and heresy as much as causes misery and pity, comments the present Secretary Mr. Brice Palmer. See www.isarc.ca

Healing Presence in the Muslim Faith

Understanding what it takes to heal is not only a doctor’s job. Or for that matter your loving family members’. It takes lots of spiritual care and we are lucky in Canada that that cultural sensitivity is recognized. But Chaplains have it tough. These gentle souls tend to sick Muslims or inmates while they themselves may not be Muslims. They may be able to deal with some general issues but not the more intense religious ones. Muslim Chaplains is therefore need with 1million Muslims in Canada and growing. For now the Ontario Multi Faith Council must be commended for having almost 35 chaplains registered with them and for working with all faiths.

This year’s annual conference discussed healing and how different faiths respond to its needs. The conference was held at the Glendon College in Toronto and presenters emphasized the need to be prayerful, take medications, being patient and work with the spirit of healing at all times. Imam Habeeb Alli spoke of the rahmah or Allah’s mercy as being the source of healing and the patient actually swims in Allah’s ocean of mercy as much as the visitors and doctors must be aware of that presence. Two important points were reiterated- avoid the hallucination of evil Jinns possessing someone and hence not seeking medical attention and be cautious of the after care after being cured as hastiness is from Satan.

Among the many presenters and workshops was an official from the Chaplaincy Ontario and from Correctional Service ready to answer the many questions chaplains and their clients encounter. Of course more Qurans, prayer mats and books are always needed and hence welcome. The Canadian council of Imams is a board member OF OMC.
See www.omc.ca

Imams discuss the delicate question of polygamy in Toronto
As the opinions roared back and forth recently on the issue of one local Imam supporting the issue of polygamous marriages despite its contravention it was thought that the Canadian Council of Imams should discuss this issue. North American Muslim Foundation hosted the forum and entertained the attendees with a sumptuous dinner. Imam Shabbir Ally, TV host, debater and Ph D candidate facilitated the discussions.

While the article written by Shahryar Shaikh evoked many angered responses and the many Imams wanted a forum, the issue surround more than a defense of polygamy as declared in the Quran- the women’s rights in this issue must be seen as Canadians are very much concerned about this, the legality as per the law, the security of the family, the Quranic nuances and its interpretations. Imam AbdulHai being a former Human Rights Commissioner emphasized the need to make sure these families are financially secured and only by registering the marriages will this be possible, Dr Timothy of the York Islamic Studies Department spoke about using the Quran as the defender and not assuming Allah’s thoughts for any revelation and Shahryar Shaikh asked what will become of the extra women in the world.

By and large there is need for more forums, more research and definitely more input from lawyers and other experts. The Jamiatul Ulama made a special effort to attend and almost twenty Imams and Scholars came that beautiful evening, praying at the new Masjid Qurtaba in Scarborough, managed by NAMF.

Relay for life event Muslims play a big role.
Every year they come to light candles and make dua. These are Muslims who may be survivors of cancer, relatives and friends of such survivors who come out to support. But many are grieving the lost of their loved ones to this mysterious killer- cancer.

Millions are raised yearly for research and no doubt much has improved in terms of diagnosis, treatment and care since Terry Fox made cancer an everyday man’s concern.

For many years Nadeem Memon and Majied Ali will meet at the Islamic Foundation and discuss with cancer patients some aspect of their health, being cancer survivors themselves. They have also explored alternative medicine. For the past three years at the vigil held at the Birchmount Recreational Park Muslims would overnight with others, participate in the walk raising money, enjoy great food and concert and of course pray together and gather to listen to a talk on health. This year Moulana Habeeb spoke on Healing in Islam and dedicated his speech to a once striving Muslim activist, Zakiya, who passed away silently this year, as she succumbed to the deadly disease after a long battle.
May Allah grant her and all others a lasting place in Janna, grant cure and healing to the victims and protect us all from such a disease. May Allah grant the patience to the loved ones and guidance to the researchers. Amen. See ww.MuslimCancerSupport.ca

Hijab women fight against their discriminatory dismissal at UPS.
Not often you hear of someone picking up the fight on behalf of Hijabis. Well in Toronto it’s different. Workers Action Centre organized a powerful evening of talks, entertainment and social justice mobilization last week in Innis College, UFT.

Eight Somalian Hijabis were working at UPS, according the WAC newsletter, and they were not made permanent on the job. The reason given was their hijab although they worked at the UPS firm before. In seeking justice Workers Action Centre noted that people should not to be discriminated thanks to their choice of religion and not by gender, since hijab is a gender issue

The email invite for this program was circulated by the Faith of Life Network and thank Allah, Muslims did turn out. Uzma Shakir was master of ceremonies and she had the victim speak a swell as a notable social activist in Toronto. There was music and lots of food. The Jazz belted out by Rose from LAL, a musical group, was phenomenal- a Bengali girl born in Canada doing American blues, crying out to save Muslim women!

Interfaith Dialogue and Fundraising Dinner held fro the first time at NAMF.

Those accustomed to attending dinners will know Interfaith dialogue is not part of the menu. Maybe tongue lashing talks are. Also those attending the many NAMF programs know that while they are well organized, they can’t remember Interfaith added to the string of fundraisers for whatever causes.

This Saturday it was different. Fr. David Warren of the Scarborough Missions, a Catholic Priest fro 30 years, discussed on stage the life of Jesus and his impact on living in diverse Canada. Imam Dr. Munir El Kassem then took his turn and showed Jesus is a prophet who taught respect and like all Prophets he did not teach anything different from Islamic theology. Fr Warren showed that fighting poverty would be one the things Jesus, on whom be peace, would have definitely emphasized if he was to live in Canada. The audience asked questions and interacted respectfully.

Dr Munir elKasem went on to fundraise for the news Masjid Qurtaba which is prime property purchased by North American Muslim Foundation for 3.5 M with 100 Ks already paid, another due very soon and the remainder to be paid in 5 years.

Appeal is on going for this project that includes the relief, Islamic school and gym plus a banquet hall for any functions. The food was just great coming from MF Halal and thanks to many donors and sponsors it was success. Two local comedians, Saad Kayani and Azfar Alli performed to the happy response of the mixed audience.
See www.namf.ca

Happy 141st Birthday, Canada!

2008-07-01T11:08:00.001-07:00

Born in the North
Amassed from your British father
Lands and peoples gathered
To fly under the Dominion

You continue to be fertile
Millions at this age and more still coming
150 nations migrated for your freedoms
May you be rich and strong far from Olympic rebukes

While fireworks and barbeque riddle your birthday bash
Many still working and some can't find any
Wrapped around my heart ribbons of red and white
Pinned unto my vest my birth land's green and black

Oh Canada
Land of widespread peace
We say Salam to your sons and daughters
Forever you be at ease.

IMO Tenth Anniversary poem of congrats

2008-06-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

IMO WAY TO GO

IMO-INTERESTING MAGNIFICENT ORGANIZERS

THE TEARS AND SWEAT OF TEN YEARS
SYNONONYMOUS WITH GLOBAL ACTIVE BLISS

MAKES EVERY CENT WORTH A 1000 MASJIDS

WHAT THEY SAID? YOU WOULD NEVER REACH

TEN GUYS AT 1000 EACH
MONEY YOUR WIFE WISHED TO SPEND ON SEARS

BUT THANKS TO ALLAH TODAY'S CELEBRATED TEARS

HOW CAN IT NOT BE?

WHEN THE FIRST LADIES OF EVERY ATTENDEE

ROLLED UP THEIR SLEEVES

NEVER MIND THEY CALL US SOCIALESE

OPEN TO ALL, NO ONE TOO SMALL

THEY SAY IT'S SUCH COMPROMISE LEADS TO FALL

BUT ISN’T THIS THE PRIDE OF OUR FAITH, WHERE’S YOUR INSIGHT?

UNLESS YOU DON'T DIG OUR FOOD, RIGHT

SO IMO YOU HAVE LOTS MORE TO DO

FOR NOW SING AND PRAISE, LET THE WORLD KNOW

THIS IS FOR REAL NOT A SHOW

IMO, WAY TO GO!

ensuring the law of the land is followed is totally Islamic

2008-05-27T08:17:00.002-07:00

Dear Editor

In your recently published article in the Star on polygamy practiced in GTA the statement of certain religious leaders within the Muslim community needs to be qualified within the context of Canadian Muslims and as per se the Canadian Council of Imams. This council has actively existed and participated in the everyday politics of Canada since 1991, providing guidance for all layers of governance, while emphasizing the importance of adhering to the religious teachings of Islam, the obligation of following the law of the land and ensuring reasonable religious accommodation as constituted in our proud Charter of Rights and Freedom.

Muslims must realize that following the Canadian Law of marriage provides the very provision Islamic Law seeks i.e. protecting women, children and husband in the event of separation and of course during marriage. This Council has repeatedly made it known that it will only perform traditional ceremonies registered and approved by the Province. It has challenged any member who seeks to do otherwise and again call upon all leaders and followers to uphold the coveted laws of Canada that are especially based upon equity and belief in God.

To the surprise of many the elements of a civil marriage are the very primary factors of Nikah/Islamic marriage- consent, witnesses, dower; however in civil ceremonies the Faith of both parties remain a private affair. In having one's marriage performed in this legally licensed fashion provides the very essence of marriage- security and happiness.
Yours truly,

Independence Day: Gratitude and Reflection

2008-05-27T08:17:00.001-07:00

Independence Day: Gratitude and Reflection

It is with deep gratitude for the Creator I stand here to day to share my message on behalf the Muslim Community of Guyana. I am honored for this opportunity.

Independence spells freedom for many who lived in bondage and slavery- colonial or post. But Guyana could not have achieved this 42 years ago without the six races standing shoulder to shoulder, ripping those chains with only tears, blood and sweat. The Quran reminds us aptly that such diversity is humanity’s indispensable trump card.

49:13 O Humanity! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise (each other).

But what about recognizing our value as a spiritual nation? We saw the fruits of such when the ERC engaged us in a blitz on anti-racism prior to the last election.

Today let us reflect as our own Martin Carter did: All are consumed. Therefore we are each shepherds and in the words of Muhammad, each must take responsibility of his/ her flock, making Guyana not only the only English speaking country in South America but also the only peaceful, spiritual and safe State in this hemisphere.

And God Willing, Inshallah, we can.

Thank You

Events

2008-05-27T08:15:00.000-07:00

Canadian Council of Imams held first development seminars

Knowledge sharing and professional training are no strangers to Imams. That’s what they do. However, finding the time off to attend an Imam’s development workshop, where you are now the listener that could be a challenge.

On May 19th 2008 twenty Imams attended a half day professional training workshop hosted by the Council itself, headed by Hamid Slimi at the Bosnian Islamic Centre, downtown Toronto.

Among the presenters were lawyer Irfan Syed who dealt with Canadian Laws and common issues; Nyla Hassan spoke on the importance of communicating through appropriate self imaging; accountant Qamar Sadiq provided crucial information on taxes while Nazim Baksh explored the sorely crucial area of media interviews. The IttihaadCapital team presented on their version of investing in ethical funds in Canada.

Attendees felt this was indeed an eye-opening event and wish more workshops are planned especially in the area of social work and public speaking.

The Chair thanked everyone, and specifically the Masjid management for hosting all with a sumptuous Bosnian cuisine. More of these workshops are slated as Imams need to operate within the Canadian context and knowledge shared is never too much. The JamiatulUlama, the body of local Islamic scholars, also supported this event.

Islamic Foundation opens its doors for Toronto, again

Affording the tickets to some of Toronto’s exotic destinations could be out of reach for some. And then the phobia in entering certain sacred spaces complicates it further. Well that should no longer be, at least per year. For the last nine years this wonderful Turkish architecture at Markham and Nugget has earned a reputation of being a must stop for those venturing out on a warm Open Doors weekend.

Visitors toured the various sections of the mosques, received refreshments and literature about complex and the religion it represents. Moreso a special session in the public library accommodates the many questions Canadians may wish to settle. Educated presenters dealt alternately throughout the Saturday and Sunday with issues as simple as the meaning of the prayers to complex matters like polygamy.

This conversation has to continue among Muslims with more open doors outside Toronto Open Doors.

NAMF walkathon a small success despite the rain
Last Saturday the weather was not cooperating like most would say for this long Victoria weekend.
However, this did not deter the signed up walkers for NAMF Walkathon 2008 in aid of orphans around the world, including Guyana. The thirty odd walkers started from Scarborough Civic Centre at 10:00 am and ended up at Midland and Finch 11:30 am, doing the 6 km comfortably in the cool of the after rain morning. Many did not want to brave the weather but youths and adults alike joined to make the premiere event a success. The twenty three hundred dollars raised will go towards the orphan sponsorship program, says the Director of North American Muslim Foundation, Mr. Farouk Khan. Among the walkers was Aliya Khan, originally from Guyana and her friends of varied backgrounds. With free t-shirts, popeyes and hand bands plus happy going colleagues she says they are bound to be back next time, bigger and better. “The run was fun, compelling and inspirational”, says Aliya. “It was great to see high school students getting involved in such a great cause since we are expected to spend our Saturday mornings sleeping in! It was a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family, knowing your spreading awareness about orphan sponsorship, not only an Islamic, but World Wide crisis,” she added.

Muslims host seminar on Muslim inmates

Mothers cry. Families distressed. Imams try. Why so many youths in the prison system? And how do they receive basic spiritual care?

Mothers concerned about their sons imprisoned and unable to receive basic Muslims chaplaincy services convened at the West Mall Community Centre, Etobicoke, recently, May 1st to discuss this issue with their local MP and Muslim Leaders.

Basically the community needs to collaborate in providing preventative programs in the community, making their mosques more active. At the same time inmates desperately need qualified Muslim chaplains. The Canadian Council of Imams and the Muslim Children AID Society have committed themselves to continue this important pursuance.