Islam Is Peaceful Religion That Shouldn't Threaten U.S.
By: Zahid Yousaf

Editor: The recent events that unfolded in the heart of Times Square gave another blow to millions of Muslims living in United States. I just want to share my thoughts on the event.

Once I read more details about Faisal Shahzad, it made me realize how our lives were similar, but yet different. Shahzad was born in Pakistan and migrated to U.S., went to school, got married and had two children. He attended a university and earned an MBA. We both are 30 years of age. Very similar to my situation, except I did not get a MBA nor have any hatred toward any American, let alone a non-Muslim.

What makes us different is the way we understand Islam.

I’m a member of Ahmadiya Movement in Islam. The belief of ahmadies is to understand and practice true Islam the way it was meant to be. A true Muslim is one who remains completely loyal to the country in which he or she resides.

Muhammad clearly instructed his followers that love of one’s homeland is part of faith. It’s all about loyalty to our nation. We are loyal to the United States.

It is time that Muslims living in the U.S. wake up to their responsibilities and declare loudly and repeatedly that they stand for peace and loyalty and are proud of it and that this is in fact what Islam itself requires of them.

The Holy Founder of the Ahmadiya Muslim community, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad of Qadian, declared more 120 years ago that there is no place or justification found in Islam for violence in any form. That is why the members of this peaceful community abide by these teachings of moderation and restraint.

The Koran explains over and over it is forbidden for Muslims to create chaos in the society. It is sad that a handful of individuals, based on their beliefs, whatever they might be, think it is OK to create a hostile environment. They do not realize that taking life of any human beings is against any human belief.

I may never understand what goes through Shazad’s mind. I do know this: that the word Islam means peace and obedience.

To understand what Islam is, please visit www.alislam.org or www.mkausa.org.