While I must say Masha’llah to Laurie Goodstein for her interesting and informative work, she interviewed me in 2007 while I was in prison (where I took Shahadah), and I can’t help but take this coincidental opportunity to remind the reader not to miss seeing the BIG PICTURE.

If you look at what her article points out about Gallup’s research, you will notice that the common denominator is the glaring lack of unity among America’s Muslim population. I thought we were all supposed to be one Ummah, one community of Believers, all on the same page. The poll would suggest otherwise.

May Allah (subhana wa t’ala) forgive me for my ignorance as I have only been on the path for 2 1/2 years and am still struggling to learn my Deen. I am simply trying to say that the reader should not ignore the part about “social alienation.” Ms. Goodstein’s point about “Lower percentages of Muslims register to vote or volunteer their time…” and the quote from Br. Ahmed Younis about “integration” would have you believe that it’s all about Muslims being part of the American mainstream–as opposed to coming together as one. Again, please forgive me if I’m wrong, but aren’t we supposed to avoid, as best we can, acting like the Disbelievers?

Jazakallah to Br. Suhaib for keeping us informed. If you happen to read this, please know that I continue to reach out to you (and anyone else you can put me in contact with) for guidance. My intention in writing this comment was simply to point out that new reverts like myself want to know where we fit in to the community of Believers and what we are supposed to be doing to serve and please Allah (subhana wa t’ala).

I do not know who they asked in Germany, but generally Muslims Germany are surely not in a good situation: unemployment among Muslims is above average, average income is below average, level of education is below average. Hijab is forbidden for most civil servant jobs, societal acceptance is poor etc etc.

However, I should not complain – other people live in harder situations –
nevertheless, compared to other countries, being a Muslim in Germany is very tough!

wa salam
Ibrahim, Germany

=D

Masalaama

Jazakullah khayran! A very interesting read.