Death words!

Allah has decreed death and while it's hard no doubt to accept that reality and especially when it happens to someone close yet we have to accept that otherwise Faith is in crisis as fate and Faith are related. They are so related that one is like the breath and the other the lung.

The Quran says every soul will taste death. However the wisdom behind this is to test us who is better is good works.

3:185 Every soul shall have a taste of death: And only on the Day of Judgment shall you be paid your full recompense. Only he who is saved far from the Fire and admitted to the Garden will have attained the object (of Life): For the life of this world is but goods and chattels of deception.

The Prophet on whom be peace says that Death is a gift for the Believer. This is what gives us solace in the time of grief. That while we are attached so much to something so lovely and beautiful yet when it leaves it was meant to leave. Rather when it leaves us it goes to to place waiting for us for a better life eventually and that is heaven. So death is a gift for those who believe.

What I feel- POEM

• What I feel-

   

   

   

  A tribute to Syria

   

   

   

   

   

   

  What a wonderful morning

   

   

  Birds chirping

   

   

  Such a snow-less winter it is

   

   

  Soothing my lingering butterflies

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Why this ambivalence

   

   

  Where is my heart going is of essence

   

   

  Pounding like an engine when I see your name

   

   

  Dreaming of innocent images, all the same

   

   

   

   

   

   

  It’s not the kind that makes a smile

   

   

  Under the covers of unlighted rooms, desires stockpile

   

   

  Where sisters whisper naughtiness

   

   

  And false hopes are hatched in freshness

   

   

   

   

   

   

  But gone is the liking for anything pink

   

   

  Where from the anger of unfulfilled love I drink

   

   

  That kindles an inner world as large as Rome or Syria

   

   

  And words become helpless like un-controlled hysteria

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Inklings of poetry, lyrics, movies and e-books besides social media

   

   

  Knocking helplessly at the waves of control-mania

   

   

   

   

   

   

  They seem to become hapless victims of indescribability

   

   

  Even the encrypted gets cracked; not infallibility

   

   

   

   

   

   

  It’s like knowing you will not make it, even being a true fool

   

   

  Like a swan that swims gracefully while frenzies beneath rule

   

   

  I wandered the land, ghastly blue

   

   

  Until I laid my eyes on you

   

   

   

   

   

   

  So this isn’t a V-day tribute

   

   

  Rather to all those who are broken by unrequited truth

   

   

  Who fail to claim their birth-right without aggression.

   

   

  God made you perfect to receive affection

   

   

   

   

   

   

  To love and be loved is not a privilege or lucky strike

   

   

  It’s critical to civilization and any Mike

   

   

  Nations are at war, filling Hell’s fury with Super anarchy

   

   

  Angels are in prayers supplicating against such tyranny

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Tell me Just why- honestly why

   

   

  Sweet-harm enamored your thoughts daily

   

   

  Why the people’s constant mindfulness, fearfulness

   

   

  That you will not live up to this make-feel goodness

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Oh Land of Damascus

   

   

  Oh Nation of Prophets

   

   

  Where our sisters breathe divine breaths

   

   

  Have your brave hearts been buried in the princess of white minarets?

   

   

   

   

   

   

  I want to break loose like a snowflake in the wind

   

   

  And ever rescind

   

   

  Free from this occupy-lunacy

   

   

  Maybe like Rumi or even Gazzali- a heartland far from piracy!

 

Dec 2011-12-29 Reports

 

Dec 2011-12-29 Reports

NAMF Gala – helping those in need 10th anniversary

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

Many were honored for being volunteers by the MP Jim Karygiannis and the NDP MP Rathika Sitsabaiesan. They have demonstrated consistent support and sacrifice to help NAMF promote its relief services and operate the Masjid Qurtaba project.

The main guest of honor was the Honourable Sitsabaiesan who spoke boldly, with facts and feelings on issues of humanitarian relief as well as the need to recognise minority communities as they strive to make Canada home. 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 Agincourt Scarborough Provincial elections.

There was also Dr Shahida Khan, a known children doctor who first contacted NAMF about securing assistance in getting little Ehsan Mohamed have an open heart surgery at Sick Kids hospital. She was very grateful that her 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 Muslim Foundation, reminded to full house audience in the Jamil Dar Convention Center at 4140 Finch Ave E that the organisation is progressing not only with relief and the local Masjid but with other efforts like the recent seniors programs and the forum on homelessness.

Guests were treated to a sumptuous dinner including roasted lamb and kurma with Azfar Ali entertaining them during dinner time with is unique witticism!

Miscommunication of attendance of MP Olivia Chow was received from her office. NAMF regrets her absence and acknowledged her with a plaque and paid tribute to the late Jack Layton.

Lunch with a Rabbi

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

I met Rabbi Yossi Sapirman during an interfaith panel on sexuality. He has studied Islam and always happy to join Interfaith initiatives that presents people of faith as normal citizens. The Rabbi is indeed a caring, deeply connected man with lots of community activism and layered with knowledge while gifted with humour. I was happy to have a moving lunch that made me understand that religious leaders are more than the prayer service leader. As I sat there so many people from his congregation came up to say Shalom or simply talk or thank him. I was there to present him my new book on Intimacy and he was so pleased to have supported the book with hope to talk about sexuality in a 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 having lunch! And only in Toronto!

Human rights conference held at Ontario Science Centre

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

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

There was a girl there only 12 years and raised 1000.00 so far within a year for charity that helps doctors in Guyana deliver babies without infant 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 at holy places, crossing borders, staying in same hotels and eating in same restaurants for a week! Unheard of? Well only in Toronto that is possible. That is indeed a factual newsflash!

Yes members of the Interfaith community, thanks to the hard work of Father Damien, Dr Karen of Canadian Council of churches and Judy Csilag this was made possible. Every one paid for their own travel and willingly joined the trip for their personal enhancement.

The stories of admiration for Islam abounds in this trip.

Imam AbdulHai Patel could not participate in the well attended forum organised by Scarborough Mission where two other panellists- a Rabbi and Dr Karen did a wonderful job in travelogue the event that had almost fifty members travel, including some young Muslim students. It was indeed heart warming to hear the stories of all three faiths and of how they marvelled at witnessing each others places of worship and history in Jerusalem, witness each others worship and travelled to the occupied territories and met with people from both sides of the country.

It is a sensitive issue and for people to respectfully report and talk of experience while avoiding the pitfalls of judgement and blaming is indeed a remarkable feat. This is the maturity the Interfaith community has arrived at in Canada and the world should take note. A viable project for a documentary and worthwhile imitative to take elsewhere!

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

RIS message- love your humanity

The most poignant message I got from listening to Saturday afternoon presentations, listened to some by 15000 attendees at the 10^th annual Reviving Islamic Spirit convention this Christmas Weekend at the Metro convention Centre was love!

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

The many speakers and presentations left this point as a theme. Islam is love! With money raised from the event in the past helping some 12000 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 18 2011

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 teaches love one another!

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

I met a gentleman in the Mahaica Creek area whose immediate warmth and readiness to share was like a spell cast upon my spirit. He felt inclined without formality, to ensure his guests were treated with maximum respect and much fanfare; with tasty, tongue-licking hassar curry! In my talks across the country at various places, I recognised the humble yet learnt and deeply loving nature of the folks in the country as to what the Prophet Muhammad, owbp, entreated towards when he said the best of you in Jahilliya are the best of you in Islam, if you have the understanding. Isn’t feeding the guests 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’s children 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 Hindu and having married a Muslim woman did not prevent him from learning to recite the Quran and sing Qaseedas- in praise of the Holy Prophet! Well that is something not merely great but deeply spiritual. He now writes poems to his deceased wife- his therapy and unending love for a woman he never wanted to touch until marriage! When the Prophet was proposed to by Khatija he was singled out for his trustworthiness and wisdom. To trust someone with your life and religion- knowing you will be dignified and your freedom of religion will be respected is indeed a quality that is rare. Notwithstanding the Quranic injunction, 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 for the first time inorder to learn about Mother Mary- Jesus’ mother during Christmas time. Her dedication, care and respect, was observed when she watched carefully the practise of the Juma prayers! She later on remarked that when the men stood up in line for prayers, without any urging nor discipline, it was the most poignant moment of all her Islamic experiences. She now wants a Quran and was happy that the Imam actually spoke out against domestic violence- something Muslims and all are guilty of. That the Holy Prophet on whom be peace never hit a woman; should be enough to counter any misinterpreted verses from the Quran that seeks to justify killing women. It’s indeed tragic that love kills and one out of every three woman is a woeful victim!

Speaking to non Muslims in Guyana reminds you that respect is 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’ attitudes towards one another but see the social ills of society is everyone’s cares, as Shamal aptly writes in his mind-boggling brochures, distributed across Guyana and read for all types of persons.

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

I envisage a continuum of dialogues, events and studies to ensure that the poor are protected and loved, religions avoid backbiting and leaders 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 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 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

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!

Nov- report- HALIFAX

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

 

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

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.