I am extremely embarrassed by the actions of many of my fellow Americans right now. I honestly believe that what we have here is a nation guided by the most incredible document ever created, notwithstanding that it says "all men are created equal" instead of "all people". To see the rank hypocrisy and rampant spreading of fear in the name of any one god is a sad testament to our times and times past. I decided to do something in the belief that even a small personal gesture can bring us closer to the ideals enshrined in our constitution.
join me below the fold to read what I did today
I read a diary by Joe8888 that urged folks to Buy a Koran on 9/11 as a show of support.
It inspired me to take it a step further. I went to Borders Bookstore and bought 3 copies of the Koran and delivered them to this local Mosque
I had never been to a Mosque so I was a bit nervous in that I have long ago abandoned any one faith as my own preferring to adopt the Dali lamas theory of kindness, respect and keeping my own church in my mind.
The Mosque I went to is a beautiful building near the NC State campus but I can tell they are wary of security threats which is so sad when you consider that it is a place of peace and worship. Every gate to the parking lot had big red NO TRESPASSING signs. As soon a s I walked into the building I was met by a security guard who was very polite. He asked me how he could help me and I exclaimed that I was there to make a small donation. I held out the bag with the three Korans and simply said I wanted to apologize for the un-American anti Muslim fever that was spreading like a virus in our nation. I explained that in response to the fools that were planing to burn the Koran in FL I had purchase 3 copies of it and wanted the Mosque to perhaps donate them to members that might not be able to afford a personal copy.
He indicated that the Imam was currently leading prayers but that he was certain he would want to speak to me, would I mind waiting. I took a seat in the lobby on a long bench and in about 15 min many men filed out, each getting their shoes from cubbies next to me and sitting to put them on.
The Imam was the last to come out. The first thing he did was smile from across the lobby in a way that put me at ease. I got up and we met mid way. I was concious of others staring at me. My heart was beating, I am a shy person at times and this was one of them. He took my hand and arm with both his hands. He greeted me warmly, looked at the books and thanked me for making such a kind and generous gesture. He indicated that he was deeply touched that I would take the time to personally deliver the books and bring a message of support and peace. I explained to him that it was my duty as a fellow human being to take care of my neighbors and let them know that I support all peaceful people regardless of race, religion, gender or politics.
I wanted him to know that there are voices of reason out there.
He took the books and thanked me again inviting me to return any time I wanted
It was a small gesture but I hope it made his day and that he tells the story to others so that they may understand that we as Americans are greater than the small minded minority that are attempting to spread a narrative of fear and hate. We are better than that.
Please join me on the facebook page I created to help spread the idea
Buy a Koran and donate it to a Mosque