Abdul Malik Mujahid

Free people control their time and money. Slaves control neither. Let’s take charge of ourselves by planning for lives because there is a purpose for our existence beyond the mundane routines of earning and consuming.

Mention of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, is always around Muslims, Alhamdu lillah. But why not organize a week-long family activity around the life of the Prophet? 

Muslims stand in solidarity with Paris and the people of France. We are profoundly saddened and shaken by the attacks that have taken place. Many of us used to say terrorists are not Muslims, now we wonder if they are even humans. Period. As Paris reels from today's tragedy, please take following actions right now.

Muslims are raised to love our Prophet more than we love our parents. We are deeply hurt when our Prophet is insulted. Although a few persons have resorted to violence, Alhamdu lillah, no one has insulted Jesus, Moses or the Bible in reaction. The Quran has asked us to honor the symbols that others hold dear. 

Please pray for the success of those who struggle for peace, justice and freedom by right means. Please pray that God guides those who are using wrong means in struggle harming humanity, Islam and their neighbors. And may God guide all the oppressors to refrain from oppressing those seeking peace, justice and freedom.

This Fourth of July we must assess our patriotism and ask ourselves: what kind of commitment to America will benefit our children, our compatriots, the world, and us? 

The struggles of our past have shown that citizens have always moved America and the Ummah forward, whether it is poor people’s movements in America, or the Arab Spring. However, nothing can be achieved without risks and the willingness to sacrifice.