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!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Domestic violence against men is violence against all.
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
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
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Father's day- some thing thoughtful!
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.
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.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Parenting- how to balance restrictions and trust.
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!
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!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Love in Islam
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.
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.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Jews extend Quran to Muslims
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.
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
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.
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.
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