Don't Ask, Don't Hate

"Our thoughts are unseen hands shaping the people we meet.  

Whatever we truly think them to be, that's what they'll become for us."

- Richard Cowper -

Had we listened to Hitler, believing all Jewish individuals to be subhuman, we would have soon began to see only inferiority in our Jewish neighbors. An entire religious and ethnic group may have been wiped out. And had we blindly followed the procession of white robes, as members carried their torches through the streets, we would have soon felt nothing but disdain at the sight of a darker complexion. Perhaps we would have never witnessed the inauguration of a biracial president. Many Americans are able to fight these prejudices and the discrimination and hate crimes they often produce, so I was nothing short of appalled when I read letters written by local citizens regarding the recent repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.

For the past seventeen years, thousands of LBGT Americans have been discharged from the U.S. Military simply for being true to who they are. Others have remained silent - some even dying for a nation that was built on (and always thought to be supported by) a foundation of freedom and equality. So when I opened the opinion section of the newspaper, I could not believe the phrases that jumped out at me: social and cultural experimentation, moral catastrophe, God's law rejected. The authors whose words I have mentioned were writing in to complain of the DADT repeal and express their negative attitudes toward our legislation. It seems that some of us are losing sleep over an end to a form of institutional discrimination.

Yes, you heard me correctly. They are upset over an end to discrimination.

A former member of the Air Force described potential discomfort at "having someone's lifestyle shoved in my face." He added, "Why must we identify a person's lifestyle in order to serve in the military?"

Well, sir, we don't have to identity lifestyle. I'm not sure if you realize this, but removing the "Don't Ask" policy does not lead to the instatement of a "Do Ask" one. By terminating DADT, the government is simply giving individuals the right to choose whether or not they wish to discuss the details of their lifestyle. I'm also confident that such a choice would not result in fellow men and women in uniform parading their sexuality before an audience.

Another man claimed that the legislation was "not in the public interest" and that the intent of the repeal "is to enforce a societal acceptance of homosexual, bisexual, and lesbian sexual relationships."

I, for one, would like to point out the paradoxical nature of this statement. If following our basic constitutional principles by protecting freedom is not in the public interest, what exactly is? And why, oh, why must everything be so black and white? Not opposing a particular lifestyle does not necessarily mean that you are promoting said lifestyle or placing it on a pedestal above others.

The issue at hand is not one of morality, though many people are taking positions and readying themselves for a cosmic debate. I don't see this political move as a jab at religious institutions; I view it as the restoration of a justice that never should have crumbled in the first place. While I do understand the concern with protecting the LGBT military community from violence and harassment, I refuse to endorse a policy that will take away a person's job - a person's opportunity to support his family and to fight for something he believes in - solely due to his sexual orientation.

One's personal stance on sexuality plays no role in this controversy. As a former Catholic and now practicing Muslim, I can find no fault in the idea of LGBT men and women openly serving my country. I may not support many American wars, but I certainly support the troops who give their time, their energy, and even their lives. I will never understand how someone can say that legislators have decided to "reject God's teachings" by repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Not in the Qur'an, nor in the Bible (please correct me if I'm wrong), does God condemn the participation of LGBT individuals in times of war. To say so falsely, quite frankly, is an insult to the strong and courageous members of our military.

As an American Muslim, I believe in the power and mercy of God, as well as the importance of fighting our country's injustices - those that have no place in a religious or secular arena.

I encourage you to let God be the judge and to let go of the hateful pre- and misconceptions that threaten to tear our world apart at the seams.

Don't ask. 

Don't hate.

Embrace.

Our Fortunate Struggles

The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: 

"The most excellent jihad is that for the conquest of self."

[Bukhari]

A beautiful and powerful word falls too frequently from the lips of angry, hateful, and brainwashed terrorists; its meaning has been tainted by historical acts of violence and ignorance.

Jihad.

The popular translation "holy war" provided by many non-Muslim media sources is as inaccurate as the notion perpetuated by some extremist groups that jihad justifies suicide bombings and attacks on innocent bystanders. (Islam forbids suicide and the killing of innocent people). In truth, jihad is an Arabic word meaning to struggle or strive, and in an Islamic context, it refers to struggling for the Cause of God or in God's Way - trying to extinguish the flames of injustice and wrongdoing.

One can "make jihad" on a daily basis. The type and level of the action varies with every person and situation. The nature of jihad may be physical or non-physical, so in theory, it can involve the use of a military or weapons; however, this so-called "holy war" is a rarity. It's not a romanticized battle of bloodshed, but rather a fight to create or restore justice. And if it does occur, there are formal processes and regulations. But many people fail to recognize that jihad extends to actions much less physical, such as trying to combat an unhealthy addiction, and that we can strive to better anything and anyone from the global community to ourselves as individuals.

The Prophet (pbuh) often emphasized the importance of personal jihad, and with this I say that I'm grateful for the countless opportunities to improve my character. They may come in the form of trials and hardships, but in reality, they're one of the most genuine blessings. Here is God, giving us a chance to live and learn, to help ourselves and others.

To grow, to change, to blossom. But this beauty will be reflected in our thoughts, words, and actions - in the warmth of our smile and strength of our character, rather than our wealth or appearance.

And this beauty may very well illuminate the world.

 [retrieved from fineartamerica.com]

I'm fortunate to have my struggles and all of the other breathtaking blessings You have sent my way.

In no particular order:

My family and friends.

My pet(s).
Faith.
Music.
Love.
Nature.
Dessert.
Scented candles.
Novels.
Photographs.
Laughter.
Education.
Conversation.

Life.

Embrace.

Scarves and Sneakers

"Islam is not a state of being, but it is a process of becoming."

- Yusuf Islam -

How would you describe a Muslim? 

Do you look at complexion, the color of skin?
Do you identify a bearded man or a cloaked woman?
Do you listen for accents and a foreign tongue?  
What does a Muslim look, speak, and act like?

A Muslim is someone who submits his or her will to God. Islam is often portrayed as a foreign and exotic religion, when in truth, it is a faith as diverse and portable as the Judeo-Christian traditions to which Americans are so accustomed. Individuals from Malaysia, Iran, and Morocco to France, Canada, and Brazil are united by a simple testimony of faith. There is no face of Islam, but there are faces. Nearly one in five human beings has an immense love for Allah. But this is no strange, distant God; this is the same God worshiped by Jews and Christians in all corners of the earth. The power of the name Allah lies in its translation of "One God" and the inability to grammatically alter the word in an attempt to pluralize or specify gender. Simply put, there cannot be gods or goddesses in Islam - only the One God Who loves us, tests us, and shows ceaseless mercy.

All Muslims have a distinct background and appearance. They differ in interests and career goals, and they each have a very unique and personal expression of their religious beliefs. In the United States, an "American Muslim" identity is called a contradiction, a paradox of sorts, as if we are strangers in this country - intruders entering someone else's home. But we're neighbors, not strangers. And we're not a monolithic people who can be placed in a box and be easily defined by the media. In fact, as scholar Edward Curtis IV explains, we're anything but that:

“[Muslims] have been part of America since before the republic was founded. Their contributions – some famous, some unknown – have changed the course of the nation’s life. They contributed their labor to the nation’s economic success in the nineteenth century. They produced some of the country’s most memorable slave narratives. They served in the U.S diplomatic corps and in the U.S. military. They published newspapers in the 1920s, created new forms of jazz in the 1950s, and changed the history of boxing and basketball. They healed people, sang to them, and fed them. These historical memories suggested a different future for Muslims and non-Muslims in the United States, one that recognizes the inevitable interdependency of all Americans and offers the hope that understanding and compassion among us might yet prevail.” 

My name is Erin, and I'm Muslim. And, I'm also American. I was born and raised here, as were my parents and grandparents. This is who I am, and this is my home. I'm Caucasian with Irish, German, Welsh, and Scotch-English roots. So far in my lifetime, I've been a student, a research assistant, a runner, a dancer, a pianist, an editor, a volleyball player, an ice skater, and even a sharpshooter in target riflery. I adore laughter and books & films that give me chills. I would watch Boy Meets World, eat a Reese's Cup, and ride the Top Thrill Dragster on a weekly basis if I could (though probably not in that order). I love music and words. I want to inspire and be inspired. Do I fit your mold? 

As a convert, people may wonder if I plan to change my name and thoroughly relinquish my identity. But we can't change who we were. That's done. We can only change who we are and constantly strive to better ourselves. By adopting the Deen (Islamic way of life), I am not required to toss aside the entirety of my culture and heritage. Islam doesn't enter one's life as a cosmic bulldozer, ready to destroy the structure of a person's past identity; it builds on the foundation that's already there, renewing, renovating, and creating a stronger and more beautiful you. 

It truly is a process, and anyone can embark on the journey.

Even in blue jeans, a scarf, and sneakers.

Embrace.

Daily Value of Love

"Love is always bestowed as a gift - freely, willingly, and without expectation.

We don't love to be loved; we love to love."

- Leo Buscaglia -

Teachers thoroughly relish telling their students that lessons learned in the classroom can be applied to everyday life. At times, this notion seems rather precarious. Sure, the ability to solve integrals may be crucial for a mathematician or scientist, but how does it personally impact me? Let's be honest: I already got my desired 4.0 in calc, so it probably doesn't.

But sometimes we focus too much on the surface. Delve a little deeper, and you just might find a bit of practicality in your studies. I'm currently in Intro to Human Nutrition. One of the first things we discussed was the concept of a nutritious diet. This is exemplified by five basic characteristics: adequacy (of nutrients), balance (proportionality), calorie control (energy intake = energy output), moderation (limiting excess of sweets, fats, and salt), and variety (consuming different types of a food, such as vegetable subgroups). 

Nutrition in and of itself is, of course, a highly applicable topic. After all, it's about health and proper nourishment - something we all require. But these simple guidelines inspired me to go beyond textbook definitions. They served as a reminder of the healthful components that run parallel to your typical "eat healthy food and get ample exercise" regimen. Being mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy is just as important as being fit in the physical sense. I believe in God and His many blessings, which, if appreciated and used, can heal the heart, mind, and soul.

*A d e q u a c y    Make time for celebration.

We need to adequately celebrate life - even in the smallest of ways - 365 days a year. Maybe we don't always have time for anything too elaborate, but take a few minutes to cherish a meal, a song, or a conversation with a friend. Life is about perspective. We may not always be in control of the events thrown our way, but when it comes to reacting and responding to these circumstances, it's up to us to take the steering wheel. Let's not forget to be grateful for all we have and to adore the people, places, and things we encounter.

  

*B a l a n c e    Balance selfishness with selflessness.

They have opposite denotations, but why must they have such polar-opposite connotations? Caring about yourself doesn't have to be negative, just as working only to please others can sometimes have detrimental outcomes. Don't get me wrong: Consistently looking out for loved ones is an absolutely beautiful attribute; but should we forget all about ourselves? I propose we balance the two, allowing them to complement one another. Give your time and energy and love to others, but when the day is done, make sure you've reserved a little bit for yourself.

*C o n t r o l   Energize with happiness.

In the context of nutrition, a healthy individual should match physical activity to calories consumed. If one engages in higher levels of activity, he should make sure he's supplying his body with enough energy. Likewise, if you wish to share and engage in happiness with those around you, it's crucial that you become energized with happiness. How can you truly enjoy the company of others if you aren't happy with yourself? Feeling worthless can defeat a person, can make it nearly impossible to win (or even finish) the race. Stay motivated.

*M o d e r a t i o n    Hate as infrequently as possible. 

To maintain beliefs and preferences is human nature, so yes, we're bound to dislike something or someone during the course of our lifetime. But hatred breaks people down and apart; it destroys relationships or, at best, makes the formation of potential relationships impossible. Who would want an excess of something so noxious to humanity? The less, the better. If everyone could just make a conscious effort to hate less frequently, our attitudes toward others and ourselves would benefit.

*V a r i e t y    Discover and capitalize on the many sources of love.

Forrest Gump was right about one thing: love is like a box of chocolates... and for many reasons. It's a gift. It's something to enjoy and with which to lift the spirits. It can be given and received. And, of course, it comes in many forms and flavors. People often think of it solely in a romantic context, but the beautiful thing about love is that it can be found anywhere and with anyone. Husband and wife. Life partners. Parents and their children. Siblings or cousins. Best friends. Teachers, mentors, and students. Even a human and his faithful (furry) companion :).

So an apple a day keeps the doctor away, huh?

Maybe a little bit of love can, too.

Embrace.

A Call for Peace

"An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind."
- Mahatma Gandhi -

[retrieved from motivate.vox.com]

September 11th, 2001 was a day of destruction.

September 11th, 2010 was a day of destruction.

First, buildings crumbled; nine years later, pages were torn. On each of these days, ashes lain scattered on the ground. What motivated such destruction, and what could possibly justify these inconceivable actions?

Difference and her daughter, Misunderstanding.

See, Difference has tried relentlessly to parent Misunderstanding, to show her that her behavior is unacceptable. But, like many kids, Misunderstanding views her mother as the enemy. She has chosen to rebel and is constantly fueled by pressure from her peers. Ignorance and Conceit are vogue, and mesmerized by all the glory, Misunderstanding has decided to hate Difference and everything she stands for.

Ask the average person about the significance of Tuesday, September 21st, and he probably won't realize it's International Day of Peace. Geez, seriously? Another random day with some catchy title dedicated to an obscure concept?

Newsflash: We're not talking about National Ice Cream Month here. This day established by the U.N. is "devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and people." It's about participating in acts of peace, big and small, from cease-fire to ending confrontation with a friend or family member. This year, my student organization co-sponsored an event entitled Pathways to Peace: Voices of Faith and Reason. Speakers from Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, Baha'i Faith, and secular humanism were invited to talk about their worldviews and the ultimate goal of peace, particularly in an interfaith context. I arrived to see approximately ten other students there - and probably fewer than fifty people overall. My heart sank. Why are we so uncommitted to making peace?

Yeah, yeah, so we're busy. We've got our fast-paced American lives consumed by an endless to-do list. Distractions blind us, and "world peace" remains an idealistic cliché. We laugh as it's epitomized as the go-to answer during beauty pageant interviews.

But while we're caught up in our personal whirlwinds, we find ourselves in quicksand, gradually sinking deeper into our own narrow-mindedness. Planes burned, and so did the Qur'an. I know many people don't see how a man desecrating the Islamic Holy Book in East Lansing, MI can be compared to the devastation of 9/11, but my purpose is not to compare and contrast or to argue over the status of historical events; I simply want to illustrate the noxious cycle that's alive and at work.

At Voices of Faith and Reason, each speaker emphasized the similarities that exist across all worldviews. A Muslim man smiled as he recalled telling an atheist friend that, in a sense, even the two of them share a common notion. The first portion of the Shahadah (Islamic declaration of faith) is La ilaha ill Allah (There is no god but God).

We're human. All of us. At our best, we're rational, intelligent, and compassionate creatures; at our worst, we hurt others and ourselves. We're owners of arrogance and seekers of revenge, and all because we can't - we won't - accept difference.

I call for peace, not to be contained during one established period of time, but to be believed in and hoped for and worked toward... each and every day.

Embrace.

Learning to Love Mittens

"Happiness is the consequence of personal effort. 

You fight for it, strive for it, insist upon it, and sometimes even travel around the world looking for it. 

You have to participate relentlessly in the manifestations of your own blessings. 

And once you have achieved a state of happiness, you must never become lax about maintaining it; you must make a mighty effort to keep swimming upward into that happiness forever, to stay afloat on top of it."

- Elizabeth Gilbert -

I've never liked mittens. Although I'm confident I wore them during my preschool days - and I certainly adore fuzzy articles of clothing - I can't actually relish the inconvenience that comes along with donning mittens. But, alas, this isn't meant to be a stroll down Erin's memory lane (though I'd like to think it's a riveting journey). And the title isn't referring to a form of winter apparel, but rather a certain region nestled between five rather large lakes.

Ahh... Michigan. Lovely, flat land that's home to prevalent obesity, mediocre professional sports teams, wavering car industries, and relentless cloud coverage. Did I mention the April blizzards? In Michigan, April showers don't always bring May flowers, because our showers are in the form of snow.

Okay, so we're all guilty of the occasional Michigan rant and familiar with the jokes often rooted in fact. But as we humans are prone to do, we wind up completely overlooking the good and zooming right in on the bad and the ugly. Seen anyone stop to smell the roses lately? Me, neither. Perhaps we're embarrassed to do so on a literal level, but metaphorically, it's because we've lost interest. 

You don't have to have read or enjoyed Eat, Pray, Love to appreciate Gilbert's words above. We receive blessings, and then what do we do? We sit and stare, totally dumbfounded as to what to make of them. Or maybe, just maybe, we don't even recognize them as blessings. Too often, we peer over the fence into our neighbor's yard without appreciating the green hue of our own grass.  

My grass isn't even green in the first place, you might say.

Well, have you tended to your yard lately? Happiness requires personal strength; it demands endurance. You need to take full advantage of what God grants you.

Michigan, like any other place, has its flaws. But what about the positive aspects of our mitten? About a month ago, I considered all the regions across the United States and tried to pinpoint my perfect destination. But what I discovered is that every location has a downside. The moderate temperatures along the coastlines are tempting, but I couldn't imagine the absence of seasonal changes. New England might be nice, but there's certainly no relief in the winter. Some U.S. states offer a milder winter, but the humidity skyrockets during the summer months. After careful thought, I concluded that my idealistic world featuring "mild winters, non-humid summers, and beautiful fall color" couldn't possibly exist.

But what does exist is Michigan's scenic (if short) autumn. The cool, crisp feeling in the air... the tastes and scents of local cider mills... the vivid, picturesque backdrop of golden and crimson trees. I can say, with conviction, that I adore our fall.

[This photograph was taken at school, fall 2009 :)]

It's time that we recognize the beauty and goodness surrounding us - even if we only witness it in seemingly trivial things or moments. I'm convinced that authentic "meaninglessness" doesn't exist. Each and every thing has the potential to be meaningful because we give it meaning. We "must make a mighty effort to keep swimming upward into that happiness forever, to stay afloat on top of it;" and even the most minuscule trace of meaning serves as our lifesaver as we make our way to the surface. We struggle again and again, but we count our blessings and strive for contentment.

If only we could remember how many people lack a place to call home - lack the warmth and comfort we know and often ignore - we just might find that mittens (of any form) aren't so bad after all.

Embrace.

Hello, World

Mr. Feeny: "Believe in yourselves. Dream. Try. Do good.

Topanga: "Don't you mean 'do well'?"

Mr. Feeny: "No... I mean 'do good.'"

Boy Meets World was and is more than a successful sitcom and thoroughly satisfying pastime. Concealed within each laugh track are bits & pieces of knowledge and comfort. You giggle, you cry, and you darn near fall in love with fictional characters. (Yep, admit it. You've become emotionally invested in relationships and events that don't actually exist).

But you're proud of it.

Every day, we strive; many days, we fail. But what's even worse than failure itself is our too-frequent response to it: giving up and giving in. One definition of a challenge is "something that by its nature or character serves as a call to battle, contest, special effort, etc." The very reason something is a challenge is that it requires one to work and to commit. If we refuse to give some of our time and energy, we won't succeed. So isn't throwing in the towel a bit counterproductive?

You're probably wondering how this relates to a hit 90s show. Well, each character had something to overcome - whether significant or rather trivial in hindsight. So here's what I've learned from the trials and tribulations of 

Boy Meets World.

ONE. Trust those whom you love...

[Especially if you've known them your whole life.]

TWO. Don't make fun of someone's name...

[Even if it is "Topanga."]

THREE. Forgive, even when it's difficult...

[It's a reminder that no one - even you - is perfect.]

FOUR. Know that time helps the healing process...

[So sometimes, you need to let it go for a bit. It took Cory a while to get this memo.] 

FIVE. School really isn't that bad...

[After all, it's where you've made some wonderful friends and memories.]

SIX. Don't always judge on first impressions alone...

[Even a weirdo like Eric Matthews can end up being a great person :)]

SEVEN. Be happy with what God gave you...

[Your hair may look like Velcro from afar, but embrace it because it's what makes you unique.]

EIGHT. People can change if they want to...

[Even irresponsible Shawn Hunter. If they're willing to try, be willing to give them a chance.]

NINE. "Old" isn't synonymous with "senile"...

[Some are pretty wise. Case in point: Feeny. Or should I say, F-F-F-Feeny!]

TEN. Love is real

[It's not always easy, but it's out there. Don't give up on that Cory&Topanga romance.]

Embrace.

Unveiling Hypocrisy

"I have decided to stick with love.

Hate is too great a burden to bear."

- Martin Luther King, Jr. -

It isn't hate that motivates the French Government as it attempts to ban the niqab and burqa in all public locations; it's the fact that Islamic veiling is a symbol of oppression - a symbol that wholly contradicts the ideals and national identity of France and does not belong on French soil. We must liberate women! 

If you ask many Muslim women, however, they'll tell you they've already achieved liberation (and without the help of Nicolas Sarkozy, thank you very much). Yes, many will tell you that donning a veil has actually helped them grow in faith and realize empowerment. By taking away their right to cover, you're stripping them (no pun intended) of their identity. Government officials claim they have good intentions in proposing a law that will do just that, but I fear they don't understand the potential consequences. See... hate breeds hate.

But there's no hate to begin with, right?

Not exactly.

What starts as a misunderstanding or misinterpretation (i.e., the meaning behind and reasons for wearing the niqab and burqa) can quickly become an irritant and, eventually, a perfect excuse for refusing to accept those who are different from you. Hate often has its roots in ignorance. Think about it: we fear the unknown... we experience culture shock... we include "normal" and "abnormal" in our daily vocabulary. If we don't understand something, we're quick to judge, to assume, and to form an opinion we then take as fact. In the end, it's often an us vs. them scenario.

**What and how a woman covers is her personal decision. The niqab and burqa are not required under Islamic Law, and I, myself, do not believe in those specific forms of veiling. With that said, there are countless women who choose to cover more than what is required in an effort to further increase their piety through modesty and worship. Although I do not plan on wearing the niqab or burqa, I fully support my sisters-in-Islam who do. It is true that some women are pressured to cover by their family members and individual cultures, and I do not condone coercion whatsoever; however, it is extremely inaccurate for one to assume that all or even most women are forced to veil. I happen to have met two converts who wear the niqab. Each chose her faith and her expression of that faith.**

President Sarkozy, have you gone door-to-door and personally interviewed each Muslim woman living in your country? How can your government claim it's freeing women when you can't guarantee that said women are enslaved by their veils in the first place?

And have you realized the silliness of a "public" ban on the niqab and burqa? Oh, I get it. You're saying they are still free to veil themselves when at home. Well, with the exception of entertaining male guests or strangers, a woman doesn't need to cover in the comfort of her private residence...

At the bottom of an online CNN article regarding the proposed ban, a Mennonite woman wrote that there was little difference between a Muslim wearing a veil and a Christian wearing a cross. Another individual then discreetly called her an idiot. Only an ignorant fool would make such a comparison! 

In that case, I guess it takes one to know one.

While a niqab and a cross might seem quite different, the principle is the same. It's a form of religious expression, and how dare someone try and take that away. A country will pride itself on being a very secular nation, meaning, theoretically, that there's no State religion. Then the leaders of those countries decide to bring religion into the political arena. In truth, the officials who want to avoid religious debate are engaging in just that when they're trying to rid the world of Islamic veils. If a nun adopts modest dress and a habit, do people scream in outrage? She's choosing her wardrobe based on personal beliefs and freely expressing her piety. But if an everyday Muslim woman strives to do the same thing, now we have national - even international - protest.

The problem is that it's Islam. The problem is that the media takes advantage of every case of domestic violence and every bout of terrorism, constantly portraying a religion of peace as a religion of patriarchs and murderers. The problem is that people are too stubborn to educate themselves before making drastic decisions that ultimately impact their public image and the lives of thousands.

Again, hate breeds hate. If the former comes along, you can bet the latter will follow. Keep bashing a group of people, and soon they'll resent you. There's a way to prevent such a vicious cycle from occurring: put an end to ignorance. It's one thing to be ignorant because you don't have access to resources or any opportunity to gain insight; but when perfectly intelligent and capable human beings are unwilling to learn - when they CHOOSE to remain ignorant - what excuse is there? If everyone could just open his mind and share that newfound knowledge with one other person, I feel improvements could be made, if only little by little.

It's time to unveil hypocrisy - to recognize it and to cast it aside. As humans, we've been granted intelligence and reason; yet, much of our potential goes to waste.

So thank you to those who accept and respect others. 

Love is so much more productive, so much more worthwhile.

Embrace.

Thirty Little Wonders

"Wherever you go, no matter what the weather,

always bring your own sunshine."

- Anthony J. D'Angelo -

We live in a world and an era marked by chaos and catastrophe, so sometimes it's necessary to find contentment in the small, everyday aspects of our lives. Here are thirty of my little wonders in no particular order - places, things, and ideas that can crack a smile.

ONE. (Non-alcoholic) Italian Soda

I usually get mine with Irish crème or hazelnut flavoring. Yummy :).

[retrieved at gremolata.com]

TWO. Evening strolls after a fresh snowfall

You know those nights when the clouds drop a clean batch of snow, leaving the sky a purple-gray hue? Even at midnight, it's light outside - light enough for a walk through the calm and quiet.

THREE. Amazing soundtrack music

Sometimes songs are good simply because of the rhythm and type of instruments used. Even without poetic words, they have the power to tell a story or evoke a certain feeling.

FOUR. The Zoo

Must I say anything? Some of the most beautiful, fierce, bizarre (and of course ADORABLE) animals are all in one place. So cool.

FIVE. Sidewalk chalk

Since going to college, I've managed to grow older and younger simultaneously. I have a new appreciation for childhood pastimes :).

[my artwork :)]

SIX. Summer thunderstorms

 Although I prefer sunshine on a regular basis, I definitely love a good storm. For some reason, rain doesn't seem dreary in the summertime; it exudes an interesting combination of strength & power and peace.

SEVEN. No-bake cookies

The perfect blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and oatmeal - and in no time at all :D.

EIGHT. Television from the 90s and early 2000s

You all know what I'm talking about. While there are some quality shows on today, nothing can beat the family-esque sitcoms (Boy Meets World!!!) and awesome animated cartoons (Hey Arnold!!!) of the good ol' days.

[retrieved at disneydreaming.com]

NINE. Collecting seashells

Buying shells from a gift shop is nice and all, but I prefer walking along the beach, bare feet in the tide. Some of the best souvenirs are the ones you don't buy.

TEN. Rainbow Sharpies

Anything involving colorful writing utensils is right up my alley :P.

ELEVEN. Coexistence

It's wonderful and necessary. Diversity should bring the world together - not tear it apart at its seams.

 TWELVE. Obstbaum Orchards

This is an incredibly cozy cider mill (located in Salem, Michigan) with equally incredible doughnuts. I'm madly in love with fall, and what better way to relish the autumn season than to share cider and warm doughnuts with your family on a crisp, sunny afternoon?

THIRTEEN. Witty banter & sarcasm

I truly enjoy clever remarks.

FOURTEEN. Surf City Squeeze smoothies

Delicious. If you're feeling healthy, I recommend strawberry banana or apple peach! If you'd like to go another route, Snickers and Butterfinger are quite acceptable, as is the pumpkin pie smoothie :).

FIFTEEN. Songwriting... and words in general

When I was younger, I dabbled in poetry and songwriting. As I got closer to college, I couldn't find the time or patience to write the way I wanted to. I have a bad habit of writing the verse of song - feeling completely inspired and energized - and then never writing the chorus.

 [retrieved at fanpop.com]

SIXTEEN. Pilates

A good workout program that allows you to use your body alone to tone and strengthen. You've got sweat and relaxation without the giant muscle guys grunting next to you.

SEVENTEEN. Italian & Indian cuisine

It's just good. What more is there to say?

EIGHTEEN. Scarves

They're a cute and useful accessory, whether you're a Muslim hijabi or not :).

[retrieved at guccifiedfor5.wordpress.com]

NINETEEN. Good conversation

I love when you're able to have a meaningful discussion with friends. It's more beneficial than relentless gossiping, and it can give you a sense of intellectual gratification.

TWENTY. Cedar Point

Gotta love that stomach rush and feeling of pure freedom. And it's not too bad for people-watching, either :P.

TWENTY-ONE. Scenic artwork

This includes both photography and paintings. I can't get enough of artsy depictions of places and their beauty.

TWENTY-TWO. Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm

All-natural and works so well. You become an addict forreal yo.

TWENTY-THREE. Olga's Snackers

To be honest, I don't like the menu at Olga's too much, but their Snackers (along with the white bean chicken chilli and orange cream cooler) are almost to die for. Not quite, but pretty darn close.

TWENTY-FOUR. Two-toned flowers

I'm talking specifically about roses and lilies. Pretty beyond words :).

[flowers I got for my mom]

TWENTY-FIVE. Scrapbook stickers

Perusing the arts&crafts aisle at stores makes me want to start scrapbooking. I worked on a creative project this summer, and I cannot explain how much fun I had with the stickers.

TWENTY-SIX. Anything fuzzy

Seriously. I think my "Nap Cuddle Blanket" sums it up right there.

TWENTY-SEVEN. Watching a meteor shower

It seems so romantic. In reality, I saw all of seven shooting stars when I witnessed a meteor shower, but it was still wonderful. You absorb the silence and allow the night to put on a show with its images and sounds.

TWENTY-EIGHT. Breathtaking books

 Books that pull you in... that captivate you from start to finish... that leave you with goosebumps (the good kind). I'm not talking about intense action or suspense, but about amazing stories of realistic fiction. The diction and syntax are fantastic, and the characters seem tangible. Even if you can't relate to the situations and events that take place, you can relate to the emotions experienced. Check out Khaled Hosseini and Jhumpa Lahiri :).

[retrieved at betweenthetimes.com]

 

TWENTY-NINE. Homemade gifts

Over the last several years, I've started making presents for loved ones. Sure, I still buy some stuff, but I always supplement those purchases with more meaningful gifts - gifts that have taken a lot of time, energy, and heart.

THIRTY. Love

Arguably the greatest thing that God has given to humanity. 

Embrace.

Peace or Prejudice?

"The weak can never forgive.

Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong."

- Mahatma Gandhi -

Any individual who follows media sources (or, really, anyone who doesn't live under a giant boulder... though I'm sure there are many who do) has probably noticed a recurring theme in the news this past week: controversy over a large Islamic Center that is to be built just two blocks from Ground Zero. There's been nothing short of an uproar in response to this project and the words of a certain President Barack Obama. I, for one, am among the supporters of Park51, and I know what some of you are thinking: She's Muslim. Of course she thinks a giant center built by Muslims, for Muslims is a grand idea. Well, I know one thing that's NOT a grand idea, and that's the rationale given by many opponents of Park51.

All sarcasm aside, I'd like to say that I was deeply saddened by 9/11 and for the people who lost loved ones in the horrific attacks. In times of national tragedy, we often serve a large helping of sympathy with a side of patriotism to those suffering most, but I believe that empathy makes for a more filling (and fulfilling) main course. Had I lost a husband, mother, or friend in the World Trade Center, I'd be hurt and distraught to say the least. It's hard to even imagine such a thing; therefore, I am so sorry to the people for whom that has been a reality for nine years.

But when I see a photograph like the one published in today's issue of USA TODAY - a woman holding an American flag in one hand and, in the other, a poster that reads, "Islam Builds Mosques at the Sites of Their Conquests and Victories" - I wonder how people can be so narrow-minded. 

Anger. That's how. 

I'm not telling the families of 9/11 victims to get over their loss and simply forget what happened that day; I'm asking them to try and forgive, maybe not for the sake of the extremists who plotted and carried out the attacks, but for the American Muslims who have had to bear the burden of their fellow Muslims' actions. A very small minority committed an atrocity, and since then, the very large majority has encountered prejudice and discrimination. We need to separate "Islamic faith" from "Muslim terrorists" because the two are not synonymous.

"[President Obama is] pandering to radical Islam. [...] Nazis don't have the right to put up a sign next to the Holocaust Museum in Washington. We would never accept the Japanese putting up a site next to Pearl Harbor. There's no reason for us to accept a mosque next to the World Trade Center." - Newt Gingrich

 Why does this reasoning make sense - because it's using analogies that are tangible to the American people and implying that we should stand up for what's "right"? I ask you this: Is overgeneralizing blame and resenting a group for exercising its (American) freedoms right? I wonder how we can possibly compare everyday Muslims building a place of community and worship near Ground Zero to former Nazis parking themselves near the Holocaust Museum. The Nazis were Germans who hated the Jewish; they did not and do not represent the German people as a whole. Well, last time I checked, we weren't allowing al-Qaeda to come and build an anti-American terrorist training camp in Manhattan - a scenario that I feel would belong more accurately in Newt Gingrich's group above. We're talking about the Muslim population in the United States. Are we going to prohibit a German citizen from opening a business near a museum dedicated to the Holocaust? Doubt it. So let's not do the same thing to those often referred to as "moderate, peace-keeping Muslims" - some of whom lost their own loved ones in 9/11.

Forgiveness doesn't justify or condone what was done; what is does is illustrate the determination and resiliency of Americans. We can mourn, but we can also show the Muslim world - both in the U.S. and abroad - that we believe in putting our country's values and liberties to practice... that we don't hold an innocent person responsible for another person's hateful actions... that we're strong, and we're not going to fall prey to bigotry that has no place in our nation. 

For those who support this cause, you help me find peace and encourage me to continue my efforts in making coexistence a destination within reach. As a matter of fact, it's no destination. It's a journey.

And it's gotta start somewhere.

Embrace.