Desperately Seeking Rumi

***Sadaf***

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The Status Of Two Who Love One Another For The Sake Of Allah	[Jun. 20th, 2006\|07:38 pm]
The Status Of Two Who Love One Another For The Sake Of Allah Dr. Muhammad Ali Al-Hashimi The Ideal Muslim © 1999 IIPH http://islaam.com///Article.aspx?id=562 Many hadith describe the status of two people who love one another for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala), and describe the high position in Paradise which He has promised them and the great honour which He will bestow upon them on the Day when mankind is resurrected to meet the Rabb of the Worlds: Among them is the hadith which describes the seven whom Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) will shade on the Day when there is no shade but His: "...a just leader; a youth who grows up worshipping Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala); a man who is deeply attached to the mosque; two men who love one another for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala), meeting for His sake and parting for His sake; a man who is called by a beautiful woman and says, I fear Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala)'; a man who gives charity in secret such that his left hand does not know what his right hand is doing; and a man who remembers Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) when he is alone and his eyes fill with tears." (Bukhari and Muslim) The two who love one another for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) are clearly shown to be among those whom Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) will shelter with His shade and upon whom He will shower His mercy and kindness. What a great honour! It is enough honour for those who love one another for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala that their Almighty Rabb will greet them on the Day of Resurrection and say to them: "Where are those who loved one another for My glory? Today I will shade them in My shade on the Day when there is no shade but Mine." (Muslim) Such is the magnificent honour and tremendous reward that will be bestowed upon those who truly loved one another for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala), on that awesome Day. Love for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala), and not for the sake of anything else in this life which is filled with greed, desires and interests, is very difficult, and none can attain it except the one who is pure of heart, for whom this world is as nothing compared to the pleasure of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala). It is not surprising that Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) should give them a status and blessing which is commensurate with their position in this world, above whose concerns they have risen. We find proof of this in the hadith of Mu'adh who said that the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) said: 'Those who love one another for My glory, will have minbars of light, and the Prophets and martyrs will wish that they had the same." [Reported by al-Tirmidhi, who said it is a hasan sahih hadith] Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) gives to those who love one another for His sake a gift which is even greater than this status and blessing: that is His precious love which is very difficult to attain. This is proven by the hadith of Abu Hurayrah (radhiallahu `anhu) in which the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "A man went to visit a brother of his in another village. Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) sent an angel to wait for him on the road. When the man came along, the angel asked him, 'Where do you intend to go?' He said, 'I am going to visit a brother of mine who lives in this village.' The angel asked, 'Have you done him any favour (for which you are now seeking repayment)?' He said, 'No. I just love him for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala).' The angel told him, I am a messenger to you from Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala), sent to tell you that He loves you as you love your brother for His sake."' (Muslim) What a great love, that raises a man to a position where Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) loves him and is pleased with him! The teaching of the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) goes even further and states that the better of two brothers who love one another for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) is the one who loves his brother more. The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "No two men love one another, but the better of them is the one whose love for his brother is greater." [Reported by Bukhari in al-Adab al-Mufrad] Islam goes even further in spreading love in the rightly guided Muslim society by telling the Muslim that if he loves his brother, he should tell him. The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "If a man loves his brother, let him tell him that he loves him." [Reported by Abu Dawud and al-Tirmidhi, who said it is a sahih hadith] The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) understood the impact of this strong, pure love in building societies and nations, so he never let any occasion pass without advocating this love and commanding the Muslims to announce their love for one another, in order to open hearts and spread love and purity among the ranks of the Ummah. Anas (radhiallahu `anhu) said that a man was with the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), when another man passed by. The first man said, "O Messenger of Allah, indeed I truly love this man." The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) asked him, "Have you let him know that?" He said, "No." The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said, "Tell him." He caught up with him and told him, "Truly I love you for the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala)," and the man said, "May Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) love you who loves me for His sake." [Reported by Abu Dawud, with a sahih isnad] Mu'adh began to spread this pure love among the Muslims throughout the Muslim lands, telling them what he had heard from the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) about the great reward that Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) had prepared for those who loved one another for His sake, and about His great love for them. In al-Muwatta', Imam Malik gives a report with a sahih isnad from Abu Idris al-Khulani who said: "I entered the mosque of Damascus, where I saw a young man who had a bright smile, and I saw the people gathered around him. When they disagreed on some matter, they referred it to him, and accepted his opinion. I asked who he was, and they told me, 'This is Mu'adh ibn Jabal (radhiallahu `anhu)." Early the next day, I went to the mosque but I found that he had arrived even earlier than I. He was praying, so I waited until he had finished, then I approached him from in front, greeted him and said, 'By Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala) I love you.' He said, 'For the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala)?' I said, 'For the sake of Allah'. He repeated his question, 'For the sake of Allah (subhanahu wa ta`ala)?' and I said, 'For the sake of Allah.' So he took hold of my collar and pulled me towards him and said, 'I have good news for you. I heard the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) say: "Allah Almighty says: 'My love is granted to those who love one another for My sake, who visit one another for My sake, and who spend on one another for My sake.'"' Islaam.com
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"A Persian Lesson" by Walt Whitman	[Mar. 31st, 2006\|12:59 pm]
From: http://www.kalliope.org/digt.pl?longdid=whitman2001060982 For his o'erarching and last lesson the greybeard sufi, In the fresh scent of the morning in the open air, On the slope of a teeming Persian rose-garden, Under an ancient chestnut-tree wide spreading its branches, Spoke to the young priests and students. "Finally my children, to envelop each word, each part of the rest, Allah is all, all, all — is immanent in every life and object, May-be at many and many-a-more removes — yet Allah, Allah, Allah is there. "Has the estray wander'd far? Is the reason-why strangely hidden? Would you sound below the restless ocean of the entire world? Would you know the dissatisfaction? the urge and spur of every life; The something never still'd — never entirely gone? the invisible need of every seed? "It is the central urge in every atom, (Often unconscious, often evil, downfallen,) To return to its divine source and origin, however distant, Latent the same in subject and in object, without one exception."
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Haha, glad I'm believe in the right religion for me!

[Jan. 20th, 2006|08:01 am]

You scored as Islam. Your beliefs are most similar to those of Islam. Do more research on Islam and possibly consider taking the shahadah and officially becoming a Muslim, if you aren't already.

Despite the actions of some - who go against the teachings of Islam - Islam is a religion of peace; the word "islam" means "peace through submission to God." "Muslim" means "one who submits to God." Islam is the third of the three Abrahamic faiths, and it shares much with Judaism in Christianity; its differences are the acceptance of Muhammad as the last and final prophet, and the oneness of God - in other words, that Jesus, though he was a revered prophet, was not in fact God, and only one God exists. Apparently the Taliban could not read (though their name means "students"), because the Qur'an states that men and women are equal as believers, and that all believers should be educated and seek knowledge. Modesty in dress and behavior is required in Islam for both men and women to preserve the values of society and move the emphasis from superificial appearance to intelligence, knowledge, and God.

</td>

Islam

100%

Buddhism

54%

Paganism

46%

Judaism

46%

Hinduism

42%

Christianity

33%

agnosticism

17%

Satanism

atheism

Which religion is the right one for you? (new version)
created with QuizFarm.com

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Iranian Basketball -- The American Connection	[Nov. 24th, 2005\|10:04 am]
I had to post this, because I think it is amazing! Must read article on Basketball in the Axis of Evil http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/middle_east/4445030.stm
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	[Sep. 12th, 2005\|03:59 pm]
Greetings from the home of the Nawabs :) I have now been in Lucknow for a little less than a week and things are starting to settle into a normal schedule. Last week was a crazy rush of finding a place to live as well buying all sorts of necessities and getting things like bank accounts and registration taken care of. We also had our placement tests. I ran out of things to write about in the "meri dilchuspian (my interests)" section, so I went on some random rant about how people don't understand Islam :). Today we started our regular schedule of classes and I really like it. I was able to learn some basic things about Urdu poetry in my Personal Tutorial class. As per Zahir's request, here is a taste of Urdu poetry -- from Ghalib though, I don't think I'm ready to write my own yet :): Dil-e-nadan tujhe hua kya hai? Aakhir is dard ki dawa kya hai? Hum ko un se wafa ki hai umid jo nahin jantai hai wafa kya hai (roughly trans: Naive heart, what has happened to you? What is the remedy to this pain? We have hope of faithfulness from one who doesn't know what faithfulness is) wah wah wah, kya bath hai!!! As far as life in general, I still have a hard time deciphering one street from another around here and am basically never responsible for getting anywhere on my own (but this isn't much different than life back in the states :P). The eternal soundtrack of Bollywood movies is also beginning to sink into my brain. When you're not listening to songs you start humming them to yourself because they've permeated your entire consciousness! All six of us students decided to live in the upstairs flats of a Muslim family, so it's a lot like Real World Lucknow! The vice-chair of the Center for South Asian Studies at Berkeley, Daisy Rockwell was here for a few days so that was really fun. We had a nice dinner at a five star restaurant, complete with city views and qawwalis. One funny thing is that nice restaurants in Lucknow always feature "mocktails." At the restaurant in the Clarke's hotel I was to shy to say the name of the strawberry smoothie I wanted, so instead pointed to the menu where it said "full time lover." We were also introduced to the current descendant of the Nawabs of Lucknow, Nawab... who was kind enough to give us all his card, which I think is pretty funny. The famous monuments of Lucknow are really very beautiful -- the Bara Imambara, Hussainiyat, Chota Imambara were all amazingly gorgeous (pictures to be sent out soon). One thing that surprised me about Lucknow is how green it is. There are lots of trees and the grass is quite lush. The house we're living in also has a beautiful garden, so that's pretty nice. There are a few things about living in a place like Lucknow that are kind of galling. We might be taking classes at a comfortable language institute with lunches and air condition and go shopping at Hazrat Ganj (meaning we go "Ganjing" as they call is around here) shopping at expensive boutiques and dining at nice restaurants and then return to our well appointed apartment, but there is no denying that so many people here do not live this way. For example, as we were walking home from a restaurant the other night, there were many people just sleeping in the streets. And I don't mean this in a derogatory way, but it seemed as if they just blended in with the dust on the dark road, if you weren't looking carefully you wouldn't even see them. Another example is the other day when we were out shopping for stuff for our apartment after a long lunch, we couldn't find our driver anywhere. He told us that he went to eat and he had to go somewhere far away because there was nothing to eat in Hazrat Ganj for people like him. Another thing is cycle rickshaws. Whenever I've gone to Pakistan, I've only been on auto-rickshaws, so I didn't even know there was such a thing as a cycle rickshaw until I came here, and I avoid using one at all costs. It just doesn't sit well with me to have someone else cycle me around when I should be perfectly capable of getting somewhere on my own. Then again, if I don't give them business then I'm robbing them of their livelihood. For my own satisfaction I'm refusing to do something that may be the only way these people can put food on the table. Well on that happy note, I should get going before I put all of you to sleep (if you've made it this far!) Hope you are well! *Sadaf Oh yes, so I do have a cell number here, because I know you all want to call me :) (91) (98398) 30705
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“India is great!”	[Sep. 5th, 2005\|05:39 am]
“India is great!” Greetings from Delhi, India! I left Chicago on Friday as masses of Muslims converged on the city for the ISNA conference. As I walked off the plane, the heat, humidity, masses of people and earthy smell combined to welcome me to my new home. We drove through the city in the early morning hours and arrived at the guesthouse of AIIS (American Institute of Indian Studies). I keep contrasting how I feel here to how I felt in Cairo, especially when I first arrived. I was so happy when I arrived here, and I feel so comfortable, whereas in Cairo my first reaction was “what did I get myself into?” and I felt so lost. Much of this must have to do with language since I’m conversational in Urdu whereas I had no exposure to Egyptian dialect before I headed off to Cairo. I think a lot of it also has to do with identity and belonging. When I went to Cairo, I think I subconsciously went under the false notion that a Muslim living in a Muslim country would naturally feel at home and that maybe I could find a place where I belonged (oh, the ever so trite immigrant identity crisis). More than anything, living in Egypt reinforced just how American I am. It also reinforced how important having a connection to South Asian Culture is to my life. I remember seeking out the Embassies of India and Pakistan to see if they have any events and going to the Diwali and Holi celebrations and how happy that made me. Living in Egypt was exhausting because I never quite knew what was going on. I’m also a lot more careful here than I was when I first arrived in Egypt, and I think my goals have changed as well. Some of the other students here have traveled extensively and say that Lucknow isn’t really the most exciting city, and there isn’t much to do at night. But this actually doesn’t really bother me. All I want to do is focus on language, instead of spreading myself too thin as I did at Georgetown and AUC as well. I’m really excited because I may even be able to get Farsi and Arabic tutoring from our instructors, which would be absolutely amazing. Yes, I’m a huge nerd ☺
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Inna lillahi wa inna ilahi raji'un	[Aug. 31st, 2005\|06:50 pm]
There is so much suffering going on in the world right now, and so many who have lost loved ones. In Iraq and in the American South. Tears are a human being's natural reactions but its moments like this that really bring home the idea that no matter what, no matter what amount of wealth, or power, or prestige we gain in this life, it's all a fleeting illusion destined to end. Inna lillahi wa inna ilahi raji'un.
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	[Apr. 2nd, 2005\|07:19 pm]
"This perspective makes clear why we must also love our enemies: it is because they exist, a fact which proves that God loves them a priori; moreover, their enmity may be no more than accidental, and in that case it could be that they are better men than we and that God loves them more than us." From Chapter 6 of Frithjof Schuon's book "Stations of Wisdom." This is so true and so intense. It will be difficult, but I have to open my heart again...
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the sufferings of women	[Mar. 31st, 2005\|03:26 pm]
We watched two films in my nationalism/religion/gender in South Asia class. The powerful thing about these films is that they are basically about the lives of women in Afghanistan and Pakistan and they really make you wonder about those ideals we have of this just family system. If women are not granted legal rights, there's nothing to keep them from being abused. Its really horrific the things that people in any sort of authority position will do to women. I would have been interested to hear your reaction to the horrible reality of looking women in the face who've been set on fire by their husbands or killed for the dishonour of leaving their abusive husbands. Just watching them cry and cry and wondering how anyone could justify this treatment as part of their culture and religion. How can we even think of condemning anyone to a life of seclusion inside their homes when we move about freely? It definitely problematizes my sense of reality.
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Minorities in Pakistan face mayhem: Human Rights Commission:-	[Mar. 31st, 2005\|01:57 am]
This is so sad... doctors in my family have been killed Minorities in Pak face mayhem: Human Rights Commission:- ANI Karachi Pakistan: March 29, 2005 A report prepared by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has revealed that minorities in Pakistan are facing mayhem as a result of the sectarian violence unleashed by religious groups and jihadi organizations across Pakistan. According to the Daily Times, the report titled " Sectarian Violence in Karachi" prepared by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan further states that even the blasphemy law is being abused because of Section 295 B and 295 C with Christians facing the brunt. "Only seven cases of blasphemy have been tried between 1927 and 1985 but since 1985 nearly 80 Christians have been detained under the blasphemy law. The law is being abused because of section 295 B and 295 C. They should be repealed," the paper quoted Father Dr. Archie de Souza, a priest at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Karachi as saying. The study reveals that starting with 2000 when as many as 16 people lost their lives in sectarian violence, the number rose to 57, 31, 27 and 48 in the years 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 respectively, adding that an important feature of this mayhem was the targeting of eminent professionals, especially doctors, a majority of whom belonged to the Shia community. "Sectarian killing has been a distinctive feature of the violence that has gripped Karachi, the most populous city in Pakistan, for nearly two decades. This form of violence peaked between 1994 and 1995. An extremely distressing feature of this crime wave was the targeting of eminent professionals; especially doctors, a majority of whom belonged to the Shia minority sect in Islam. The scale of violence declined over a couple of years but rose during the period between 1999-2002," the report added. The report states that sectarian violence unleashed against the Shias is a direct result of the brainwashing by madarssah where pupils are told they would go straight to paradise if they kill people from the Shia Muslim sect. The report further states the even the reforms initiated by Musharraf to cleanse the madarssah system has been of little help, with Musharraf himself escaping two assassination attempts by fundamentalist forces. (ANI)
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lyrics for Gole Sangam	[Mar. 25th, 2005\|12:25 am]
This is actually pretty deep: http://lyricsplayground.com/alpha/songs/g/golesangam.shtml I knew I loved this song for a reason
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Who is the Antichrist? Is He the King of Jordan?	[Mar. 21st, 2005\|07:50 pm]
So I'm minding my own business, googling King Abdullah of Jordan because I just heard him speak this morning when I came across this: http://jesus-is-the-way.com/Antichrist.html Who are these people!?!? I wonder if he knows that he's suspected to be the Anti-Christ... Man, being King definitely has its downsides...
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Christian Suicide Shooter Kills Innocent Americans	[Mar. 17th, 2005\|11:18 am]
I think this article, in the tradition of what the S.C.U.M. (society for the cutting up of men) Manifesto proves about biases towards women, examplifies the types biases that are just accepted when applied to Muslims. Note: The article below is only an example of what a biased media report of Christianity may contain. Christian Suicide Shooter Kills Innocent Americans By: Dr. Aslam Abdullah http://www.islamicity.com What if the media applies the same rules it applies to report incidents of violence in the Muslim world? What if the reporter happened to have biases against Christianity? What if he is totally ignorant of the Milwaukee religious profile and the American religious landscape? The result will not be different than what you may read in the following story. A Christian Terrorist kills seven innocent Americans including children and women. The terrorist act happened on Saturday at a church service held regularly at the Sheraton Hotel in Brookfield, Wisconsin. After killing the seven innocent people the Christian terrorist killed himself. Four died at the scene and three others died later of their injuries, police said. They ranged in age from 16 to over 60 year olds. The terrorist was described as a 45-year-old man who had been affiliated with the church, which met at the hotel every Saturday morning for several years. The group, the Church of the Living God, is an evangelical church that observes the Sabbath on Saturday, not on Sunday. It was reported that the gunman had differences with the Church Leaders on various religious affairs including the Christian Sabbath day. Experts believe that his act was inspired by several biblical verses that promote violence in the Old Testament. However, no one has demanded a serious study on the issue of Biblical roots of Violence. Experts also believe that the inspiration for the terrorist act came from the belief that the killing would be forgiven as Jesus has already died for the sins of all the Christians. Several Experts on Christianity tend to believe that the rising violence in the US can be attributed to this belief. In a survey done by some experts it was revealed that most Christians believe that their sins have already been forgiven as the Son of God has died for their sin. "The rising violence and the indulgence of Christians in the killing, looting and cheating acts all over the world can be attributed to this belief", said an expert. "When people believe that they are not accountable to any higher authority as they have already been forgiven, they tend to commit excesses regardless of the harm they inflict upon people", explained the expert. "If the world wants to see a decrease in violence in countries with Christian majority, they have to look at the Christian theology of sin and crucifixion", added the expert. Seemingly, the incidents of violence are on the rise in the USA, after the re-election of Mr. Bush who is said to be a staunch evangelical born-again Christian. Experts feel that his re-election has emboldened several rightwing Christians. Several religious communities are questioning the silence of Christian leaders and scholars in discussing the theology of the forgiveness of sin. Muslim scholars, however, have warned against generalization. They said that the action of a few Christians cannot be used to condemn Christianity or blame all Christians for violence. They cautioned against viewing all churches as potential cells where violent and terrorist Christians hide. They argue that such a description of Christians or their churches will be a violation of the principles of Islam that promote respect for people of all faith. The Milwaukee terror act has created a climate of fear in religious circles all over the country. People fear that potential Christian killers and terrorists might be present in every religious gatherings, waiting for the right moment to strike against innocent Americans. Several Christian leaders, however, suggest that such acts are inspired by Satan, and they have no place in the official teachings of Christianity. Some of them blame the presence of other religions in America as a source of corruption of their faith. Others argue that by accepting Jesus as Son of God and God (Muslims and Jews don't believe in the concept of trinity) all people will be saved from hellfire. However, many Christians reject this theology arguing that people will be judged according to their actions, a position held by Muslims all over the world. Note: The above is only an example of what a biased media report of Christianity may contain. Dr. Aslam Abdullah is editor in chief of the Muslim Observer and director of the Islamic Society of Nevada, Las Vegas as well as the director of the Muslim Electorates Council of America (MECA).
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Muharram Reflection	[Mar. 11th, 2005\|01:12 am]
February 10th marked the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calender, as well as the month in which Imam Hussain, the beloved grandson of the Prophet (S) was martyred in Karbala. The events of Muharram make it a month of mourning, particularly for Shi'a Muslims. The contours of my mind are deeply shaped by a lifetime of Muharram memories: of families dressed in black, sweets for children, and a deep feeling of sorrow that pervades everything. As I grew older, my understanding matured and I grasped one important lesson of Muharram: that though the innocent may be killed, the struggle for justice continues. From these nights of prayer and mourning, deeply rooted empathy and compassion blossomed in my heart. No matter what personal suffering I may experience, it cannot compare to the suffering of the family of the Prophet (S) in Karbala. There were certain images burned into my mind. The half brother of Imam Hussain, Hazrat Abbas, having both of his arms cut off while bringing water to his four year old niece Sakina. Six month old Ali Asghar pierced in the heart with an arrow while his father Imam Hussain asked the soldiers to provide the baby with water. The Imam accosted by soldiers on all sides, killed and beheaded. The tents on fire as women and children ran from one tent to another in confusion. The women of the family of the Prophet (S) paraded through the streets as prisoners, while the heads of the men, including the Imam and the six-month-old baby, were raised on stakes. People often ask me why Muslims should commemorate an event that happened so long ago. My only answer is that by remembering the injustices of the past, we learn to empathize on a truly human level with the sufferings of the present. If such a tragedy could befall the family of the Prophet (S) then the trials in our own lives do not symbolize that God as forsaken us. The struggle for Justice is ever-present. Growing up in a Shi'a community, Karbala and Ashura were an important component of my consciousness as a Muslim. When I came to Georgetown, there was really no mention of Muharram except the suggestion to fast on the day of Ashura. I would attend majlises with my few Shi'a friends and that was it. Yet the growing sectarian violence in Iraq as well as in Pakistan forced me to examine the ignorance that was breeding hatred and allowing Muslims to kill each other. How ironic, that ignorance towards injustice faced by the family of the Prophet (S) fuels injustice amongst Muslims today. If as Muslims we are required to stand up for justice, I then questioned what my role could be in addressing these issues. I realized that I must make some sort of gesture, no matter how small, and attempt to educate at least those closest to me about the events of Karbala and their relevance to all Muslims. This year there were three events in commemoration of Ashura at Georgetown. There was (i) a discussion on Ashura itself with an emphasis on the different perspectives, (ii) a lecture about the significance of the Ahl al-Bayt (family of the Prophet (S)) and the Tragedy of Karbala for all Muslims, and (iii) and a majlis held in the Muslim Interest Living Community. These events encompassed some of the important aspects of Muharram. It is my hope that this discussion will continue, as intra-Muslim dialog will only help us appreciate our common spirituality and admiration for the family of the Prophet (S).
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a reply to a recent article on America's Role in promoting "Democracy" Abroad	[Mar. 10th, 2005\|08:30 pm]
his article can be found at: http://www.muslimwakeup.com/main/archives/2005/02/will_the_us_fin.php#more Shadi, I may not agree with you, but I must admit that your writing has improved dramatically. Bush's speech on the other hand reminds me more of repetitive and vague propaganda than anything else. I quote President Bush: "For as long as whole regions of the world simmer in resentment and tyranny—prone to ideologies that feed hatred and excuse murder—violence will gather, and multiply in destructive power, and cross the most defended borders, and raise a mortal threat." A Mortal Threat??? Wow, that sounds scary! What about American imperialist ideology as one of those that feeds hatred and excuses murder, and on that note, torture as well? "From the day of our Founding, we have proclaimed that every man and woman on this earth has rights, and dignity, and matchless value, because they bear the image of the Maker of Heaven and earth." Actually, I wouldn't say from the day of our founding. On the day of our founding, the "Fathers" went back home and ordered their slaves around. I would say it's more like a continuing struggle. But the myth of our nation, perfect from its inception is quite powerful. "we have lit a fire as well—a fire in the minds of men. It warms those who feel its power, it burns those who fight its progress, and one day this untamed fire of freedom will reach the darkest corners of our world." Oh, I'd say we've lit many fires... Who doesn't want freedom? Yet what exactly does this freedom mean? Surely not the masculinist militaristic ideology that increasingly permeates state and civil society, an ideology that the U.S. is only promoting. As far as spread it to those "dark corners" of the globe, maybe those "dark corners" are so dark because "dark" people live there, with their "dark" religion...hmmm... *Sadaf
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Shaikh Yusuf al-Qaradawi's Approach to Shia-Sunni Dialogue	[Mar. 3rd, 2005\|01:41 am]
( Shaikh Yusuf al-Qaradawi's Approach to Shia-Sunni Dialogue )
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why are my friends so damn artistic?

[Feb. 17th, 2005|12:03 am]

almost none of this are actual pictures of y'all -- I guess I'm one of the few boring ones!

~Rumilover~

LJ friendsCollage.

Brought to you by

pratibha75 and

teemus.

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live goes in waves	[Feb. 15th, 2005\|05:04 am]
Last semester was my semester of religion, academically speaking. Practice-wise, this semester has been much stronger. But last semester I was pondering and analyzing the deep questions of Islam on a daily basis. This semester is very different. There is a different theme to this semester -- human suffering. On a daily basis I read passages such as "bodies rotting on beaches, smoldering in grotesque heaps by the roadsides, and floating down rivers were daily sites during the height of state repression from 1988 to 1990." This particular except is from a reading on Sri Lanka. Each time these passages make me cry, and hurt and want to tear myself apart.
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Muharram	[Feb. 13th, 2005\|03:36 pm]
Some recent e-mails on muharram: Salaams, Sorry to those of you whose inboxes I have been filling the last few days, but there are a few things I wanted to say about why I've been so active about Muharram this year. After I attended a majlis last night, I was thinking that it must seem strange to many people who didn't even know that I was shia that I am now pushing for so much dialogue on the subject of Karbala and the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. I myself was trying to pinpoint what caused this renewed effort. Last Muharram I was in Cairo, and there obviously was not a large shia community there, so I commemorated the events by watching majlises on an British Desi cable channel. I believe that the events of Ashura 2004 were the catalysts for this change and I want to share with you my journal entry from last year's Ashura: Ashura [Mar. 2nd, 2004\|09:52 pm] Tonight I watched an Urdu ashura majlis on Vectone Urdu service. It was such a good majlis.... The saddest parts just came back to me so strongly. Hazrat Abbas having both of his arms cut off while he tried to bring water to his 4 year old niece Sakina. Six month old Ali Asghar pierced in the heart with an arrow while his father Imam Hussain was asking for water. The Imam accosted by soldiers on all sides and killed, [his head later raised on a stake and paraded through the bazaars]. The tents...lit on fire as women and children ran from one tent to another in confusion. The hijabs of the women being torn off. The earrings of Sakina being ripped from her ears... It is so sad how many Shias have been killed today. It is so ironic how the injustice in the world just continues and no one seems able to learn any lessons from the past. They were showing footage from Quetta Pakistan where there was firing on a juloos [basically a procession in commemoration of Karbala]. They then went to Karbala and showed the terrible consequence of I think 4 different suicide bombs that went off there. They were showing people running with all sorts of bloodied bodies, I saw completely mutilated bodies of men and children and I just started crying again. How can people butcher each other like this? *End of entry* This was such a turning point for me because it made me realize that the situation in the Muslim community has reached the point that people are willing to kill each other because of the absolute lack of understanding amongst Muslims. The cable network itself had received a death threat for airing a majlis at all. I saw myself as partly responsible for this ridiculous state of affairs. Each one of us who refuses to share or ask questions about the differences in the Muslim community is only solidifying ignorance. Ignorance is extremely fertile ground for hatred. A good resource on Shia Islam is http://www.al-islam.org/ Sorry again for taking up your time, but this is something that is very important to me. wa salaam, *Sadaf ALSO This is an excellent article by Mike Knight. http://www.muslimwakeup.com/main/archives/2004/03/bleeding_for_th.php Not for the faint of heart, but I think his writing really shines here.
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	[Jan. 9th, 2005\|02:17 pm]
hats off to tiffs for having the most hilarious journal in the world!
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new years	[Jan. 4th, 2005\|02:04 pm]
For New Years I went to dinner with my parents and then stayed home. It was funny because even my parents wanted me to go to a club or something (lol). They were like "why are you depressed?" But I didn't celebrate for a few reasons: 1) too sad about the state of the world (tsunami, Iraq, election) didn't seem like such a great year. 2) To protest the entirely materialistic and consumption based culture that NYE celebrations are about -- spend lots of money, drink lots of alcohol. 3) I've realized I'm far too undisciplined for my liking. I wanted to prove that I could forgo something I love -- partying :) Amine keeps telling me I'm a radical :P
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my college essay....	[Jan. 4th, 2005\|02:02 pm]
I'm writing a personal statement for a fellowship and I thought I'd look at my college essay for inspiration. I was so cute! *************** Little Girl My little fingers entwine themselves into the loose threads hanging off the velveteen couch, and my short raspy breaths leave a transient fog on the windowpane. My home is a fortress of security; it is a metaphorical extension of the womb where everything is self-consciously familiar and comforting and safe. I live the life of an average child; my Barbie dolls and jump ropes are strewn about as I am occupied by my petty trials and tribulations. Yet permeating through all of my daily activities is the conviction that there is something more. The darkness of night seems to project an air of mystery upon my little world. The shadows hold secrets and familiar objects seem daunting and strange. Of course it is not the room itself, but the view from the window that captivates me. Silence encircles my home, but I cannot sleep. I race to my nighttime home to follow the cars with strange passengers headed to even stranger destinations. My eyes glitter in reflection of the headlights of passing cars but also with my own spark of curiosity. A lonely limousine passes by and I imagine the glamorous lives of the fortunate passengers. Even at this young age, I am a thinker. I wonder at the fact that every seemingly anonymous person has a significant life and something very valuable to offer. Minutes and hours tick away and yet I cannot seem to get enough of the world outside my window. As I sit here typing at 17, the velveteen couch is still present. My dolls and games have been replaced with CDs and dramatic scripts and scribbled love notes. These symbols of my life lie haphazardly on the floor as I type. Years have passed and my head is full with all sorts of new ideas and information, yet the feeling of something more is ever apparent. My greatest feelings of euphoria arise when I sense I have reached a newer, and hopefully higher, level of understanding. I am elated, whether I sense it during a tearful discussion concerning the meaning of love over a warm cup of coffee, or alone in my backyard on a moonlit night, or in a heated AP European History debate pertaining to whether the Protestant Reformation was historically inevitable. My face is presently illuminated by the neon glow of the computer, yet also by an overpowering feeling of expectation. I am aware that I will soon have to leave my metaphoric womb. On the verge of a new journey, I cannot help smiling, thinking of the little girl seated anxiously on the old velveteen couch, and I wonder what awaits her.
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	[Dec. 12th, 2004\|02:19 am]
I just came across the most pretentious website in the world: http://dating.thesquare.com/cgi/parse?TPL=/doc/home/index.html&AD=Google1
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[Dec. 8th, 2004|10:10 pm]

You scored as Upper middle Class. Your determination have soared you this high, yet not high enough to enjoy the luxuries of the upper class. Your most valued posession is your country club membership which is kept framed in the office.

</td>

Upper middle Class

71%

alternative

71%

Middle Class

62%

Lower Class

42%

Luxurious Upper Class

38%

What Social Status are you?
created with QuizFarm.com

Woah, so I'm the not so rich and yet like to act like it type? That's horrible!!!

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I was on TV	[Dec. 6th, 2004\|01:36 am]
:http://voanews.com/english/2004-11-10-voa82.cfm
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	[Dec. 5th, 2004\|04:05 pm]
I recently had a conversation with a Muslim guy who said "the only good thing about the Right Wing is that they keep America with some sort of moral backbone." Hmmm... 14619 to 16804 Iraqi civilians killed in a "War on Terror" justified based on an attach that killed 3,030 American civilians. Yeah, that's what I call morality... sources: http://www.september11news.com/911Art.htm http://www.iraqbodycount.net/
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	[Dec. 2nd, 2004\|07:09 pm]
The boy in the cubicle across the aisle from me is hilarious, every once in a while he breaks into song, whisperingly, but we can all here it and then sometimes he's just groovin' to whatever music is playing on his computer...cute! I think I'm really falling in love with Arabic...it's so beautiful, if only it was easier for me to learn :(
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[Dec. 2nd, 2004|01:38 am]

bollywood is love

brought to you by the isLove


desis are love
brought to you by the isLove Generator


pakis are love
brought to you by the isLove Generator


islam is love
brought to you by the isLove Generator

the last one is my favorite <3

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	[Nov. 4th, 2004\|02:24 am]
I'm hurting so much right now. I read these comments that basically tell me to get over it, that this is our system and the decision has been made. But I can't help the fact that I feel this way. I just can't believe this happened. I can't believe that so many americans could go out and vote for Bush after everything he has done. At this point, its not only an issue of the best candidate, it's a moral issue. How can people put their own beliefs on gay marriage and abortion above civil rights and human rights around the world? I also find it interesting that almost every state is divided right down the middle. What does this say about America? It's as if we have two simultaneous nations living together. I almost feel as though it's about time something was done to bridge the gap, some sort of communication between the educated liberals and the rest of the country. We're never going to get anywhere winning the coasts and illinois -- although i do love the coasts and illinois. How? How can you vote for a president who didn't ask any questions when he was warned that Bin Laden planned to attack in the US? How can you support a government that lives on idealogy more than reality? An opportunist administration that wont be happy until they've gain control basically the whole world? How can you vote for a stupid man? Okay, so Kerry is a "flip-flopper" -- but shouldn't you change your mind when you have more information instead of stubbornly sticking to your wack beliefs? I can't understand how an american population whose economy is in shambles, whose kids are dying in Iraq, would want this to continue. Four more years, four f-ing more years. I just want to drop everything and go into politics now because i can't stand this feeling of helplessness. As Sharifa says, the republicans were counting on americans being stupid, and they were right. I am so enraged after talking to my mother and finding out that MY MASJID was half for BUSH! Supposedly fucking muslims for Bush ran adds on Geo TV that stated that because of Bush, there aren't any sanctions on Pakistan, but if Kerry was to win... WTF? Also, someone mentioned that Bush is for shias because he got rid of Saddam!!!! WHATTTTTT??? KERBELA AND NAJAF ARE IN FLAMES BECAUSE OF HIM! OMG, WHY ARE MUSLIMS SO STUPID, WHY ARE AMERICANS SO STUPID? Whew, I need to calm down. Today was literally a day of mourning. People were walking all around campus with destroyed looks on their faces. Professors tell me they feel as though someone died. I fear for myself, I fear for America and Americans everywhere. When people asked "why do they hate us?" They were told that Americans weren't hated, that they only hated american policies, but honestly they know americans elected Bush. But then again, if you had asked me a year ago, I would have said Bush would undoubtedly have won. So perhaps, instead of being so destrryed, i should be glad that were able to do so much. I guess its just an expression of all my feelings of anger and disappoinment over the past few years. Something has to be done. Maybe we can have dialogues with college students in the midwest and south so there canbe some understanding of where these people are coming from, what their reality is. Because it clearly isn't the same as mine.
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	[Nov. 3rd, 2004\|03:06 am]
This is so nightmarish, I haven't gotten anything done. I wish I had been at my apt to cry with my roommates, but instead I'm in the library. How does anything I'm doing matter in the light of this?
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why	[Nov. 3rd, 2004\|01:16 am]
how is this happening
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	[Nov. 3rd, 2004\|12:05 am]
I'm so nervous. As I sit helplessly checking the latest figures, all I know is that I fell like I didn't do my part. When I was in Cairo I vowed to myself that I would devote myself to this election. Yet, I didn't. I donated some money, put a Kerry sticker on my backpack and that's about it. Omg, I feel sick to my stomach. It is so interesting how our country is divided basically half and half. I feel as though there is this HUGE cultural divide in America. I wonder if people really realize the repercussions of this election. We could all be annihilated if it goes to Bush, and I don't think I'm exxagerating. Think of the supreme court justices we'll have to live with for the rest of our lives. Think of the people around the world who are wondering "what is wrong with americans?" Do we like watching children blown up? God help us all
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Georgetown is Beautiful	[Oct. 29th, 2004\|03:46 am]
I just want to take a moment to say how beautiful Georgetown is and how much I love it. It's amazing in it's fall glory right now. Perhaps I'll post pictures from my "fall fantasia" photo shoot today :) In all honesty, somehow I can never get bored of walking around campus. I remember coming back for the first day this semester and thinking each place seemed so heavy with history, and yet now that I'm steeped in it, this is what I love. This is my Georgetown. The other night I was in the library and spent all the time talking to Tariq. The next night while walking back from the gym I was on the verge of tears thinking about how much I love my friends here. I think I know why I was so out of it when I first got back. It was my defense mechanism after such a difficult and distant year when these friends of mine, the pieces of my heart were far from me. It's so hard to prioritize. On the one hand this is my one experience to spend time with my beloved friends who will be God knows where in a little while. On the other hand, I have the opportunity to learn so much right now too... Sigh, I guess it isn't the worst of situation, huh? When I walk around, sometimes it is so sharp, the colors of the trees and sky and buildings so striking it seems unreal. And I thank God for letting me partake in such a beautiful dream. I love, love, love this place... all of those years of waiting were justified...
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Ramadan Mubarak	[Oct. 15th, 2004\|01:50 am]
Hey everyone! Ramadan Mubarak! I also wanted to let you guys know a poem of mine has been published in an online journal -- check it out! http://www.sspoetry.net/v2i7/1.htm On a sadder note (I hate the fact that all i seem to do here is complain...) it's ramadan and because of that I'm forced to think of my last Ramadan in Egypt. You would think I would have fond memories and would be longing for Egypt -- not in the least. Actually it makes me sad to think that. I keep wondering why Sofia and Shenaaz couldn't have been there with me first semester. I know if they had been there, it would have been a wonderful experience. we would have explored together and really gotten a feel for Ramadan in Egypt. Instead I think it was one of the most difficult and lonely times in my life. I think Sarah and I were clinically depressed. We would just sleep all time, have iftar at the cafeteria mostly and I would cry a lot. The dorm felt like a hostile prison where every walk through the lobby was like avoiding landmines. There were entire days when we would just stay in our room. We were counting down until we could leave the God-forsaken country of Egypt and go to Italy. If any of you remember, basically the only entries I had from that first semester were in Italy. I think I only had 2 or 3 iftars with other Muslims. It was the loneliest period in my life. Considering the fact that my friends and family are everything to me, I guess I should find strength in the fact that I got through it, and if I could get through that I can get through anything. Yet I still find myself hurting at just the thought of it. I thought I was past it, but I guess I'm not. I guess i need to give myself the time to heal.
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They Spoke in Silence

[Oct. 9th, 2004|10:56 am]

[	Current Mood	\|	pensive	]
[	Current Music	\|	walou	]

--Sadaf (that's me ;) ) 1/19/02

As he swirled the cream in his coffee and
she made designs with sugar on the countertop
they spoke in silence

As they discussed the mundane happenings of life
keeping the entrancing rhythm of friendly conversation
they spoke in silence

Sometimes catching each other's glances
measured pauses adding to the depth of conversation
they spoke in silence

She told him she sometimes worried about men and love
He laughed and said there were no answers to her vague questions
they spoke in silence

"No answer" she said again
and again they spoke
in the glances
and the laughter
and the silences of conversation

all the while knowing the answer was there
in the silence

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	[Oct. 7th, 2004\|03:25 pm]
Israel kills in cold blood 13-year-old Iman Al Hams while on her way to school, Gaza death toll reaches 88 on day 7 George Rishmawi-IMEMC & Agencies, October 5, 2004 Palestinian medical sources reported that a young Palestinian girl was killed Tuesday morning in Tel Al-Sultan near Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. The sources said, that Iman Al-Hams 13, was shot by Israeli troops positions in Tel Zourob area. Israeli sources claim, the girl approached a checkpoint with a bag on her back. The soldiers shot her when she ran away, as they suspected her of carrying an explosive device. Contradictory to the Israeli story, Dr. Mu'awyeh Hasanein, director of the emergency rooms in the Palestinian Ministry of Health said, Iman Al-Hams received two bullets to the left thigh and the belly which cause her death. As the Israeli Military operation in the Gaza Strip resumes for its seventh day, Israeli troops killed a Palestinian man, Monday night who managed to sneak into the settlement of Nitzar Hazani, north of Khan Younis. Israeli sources reported that military officials will meet today to discuss whether to stop their military offensive in Gaza strip, in which at least 88 Palestinians were killed, hundreds wounded and many homes demolished. ------------- AL-HAQ ACTION ALERT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE REF: 27.2004E 5 October 2004 Al-Haq calls on members of the international community to take immediate action to stop ongoing violations of international human rights and humanitarian law in the Gaza Strip. Please fax or send by mail the following appeal (either as is or as a guide for your own letter) to the officials listed below. Your Excellency, I write to express my deep concern over the flagrant violations of international law being committed by the Israeli Authorities during their current military campaign in the northern Gaza Strip which began on the evening of 28 September 2004. As of 4 October 2004, 76 Palestinians have been killed, of which 22 were children. 246 have been injured through gun fire and heavy tank shelling in densely populated residential neighbourhoods. In addition 38 homes have been totally demolished, 130 homes have been partially damaged and UNRWA schools have come under fire. A focus of the military operations is the Jabaliya refugee camp, home to some 100,000 Palestinians. The military operation is being carried out with total disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law and as such, demonstrates a clear unwillingness on behalf of Israel to be bound by the rule of law or to uphold its application, at the expense of the fundamental rights of the Palestinian civilian population. Israeli actions such as wilful killings and extensive property destruction are considered to be grave breaches (war crimes entailing individual criminal responsibility) under the Fourth Geneva Convention. It is particularly troubling that Israeli authorities are denying international non-governmental organisations access at this critical time. In light of this, the ongoing military operation in northern Gaza presents a serious challenge to the value attached to the rule of law by the international community. On 21 Septmber 2004 Secretary-General Kofi Annan reminded the General Assembly of the United Nations that “no-one is above the law, and no-one should be denied its protection. Every nation that proclaims the rule of law at home must respect it abroad; and every naton that insists on it abroad must enforce it at home.” I therefore urge you to support this vision of an international community governed by the rule of law, and give it substance by taking concrete action to ends Israel’s military campaign in northern Gaza. Yours Sincerely, Addresses and Fax Numbers United Nations Secretary-General Mr. Kofi Annan Fax: +1 (212) 902-5364 President of the Security Council H.E. Sir Emyr Jones Parry, KCMG Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations New York, NY 10017 Fax: +1 (212) 745-9316 President of the General Assembly Mr. Jean Ping Office of the President of the General Assembly United Nations New York, NY 10017 Fax: +1 (212) 963-3301 Chairman of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People Mr. Papa Louis Fall Permanent Representative of the Republic of Senegal to the United Nations New York, NY 10021 Fax: +1 (212) 517-3032 Chairman of the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories Mr. Herman Leonardo de Silva Permanent Representative of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka to the United Nations New York, NY 10017 Fax: +1 (212) 986-1838 Al-Haq, PO Box 1413 - Ramallah, West Bank Tel: +972 2 295 4646/9 Fax: +972 2 295 4903 media@alhaq.org - http://www.alhaq.org
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I'm not suggesting you all enter this site...	[Aug. 14th, 2004\|01:00 am]
but I thought the concept was freakin' funny as hell. http://www.fthevote.com/
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basic LJ help	[Aug. 14th, 2004\|12:37 am]
do any of y'all know how to cross-post to communities? Also, is there a way to cross-post a comment as a new journal entry? And last but not least, how do I do that cool, referring to someone by their LJ thing? I know I'm learning this stuff way late, but better late than never. This is all in preparation for some major entries I have coming up...
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my first rishta	[Aug. 8th, 2004\|06:08 pm]
So today I had the experience I had been dreading for so long. Boy's family who wishes to marry you comes over and you're supposed to somehow decide in the one meeting if you like the person. The setting: My Khala's house in Orange County, California. The whole day was pretty much spent cleaning and getting the food ready whilst I dressed in traditional Pakistani clothes and put on far too much eye make-up for a casual lunch. This family drove down from San Francisco which is a 6 hour drive I guess. They've been calling my mom for over a year wanting to meet me. Actually they wanted a picture but my mom said no (go mom!). So this entire weekend has been kind of stressful because everyone kept making wise-cracks about my future husband coming, when am I gonna have kids, all that non-sense. I mean, I played it pretty cool, but it was unnerving. Especially considering the fact that we went to a wedding last night of some eighteen year old girl, which made this weekend the ultra-wedding weekend. The event: They finally get here and we sit down in the formal living room. The conversation is pretty much revolving around which friends of ours are related to which friends of theirs. It was fascinating, really (can you note the sarcasm?) and neither the guy nor I have gotten a word in edgewise. I'm starting to wonder if I'm ever gonna find out anything about this guy. I'm wondering if I should just jump in and ask him what the hell he's about, since I have no idea. So finally the topic of where he's going to school comes up and my mom jumps on it and starts asking him what he's doing, where he went to school, stuff like that (go mom again!). Anyways, I jump in and of course cannot speak for some reason, I have to ask my brother to get my a glass of water. But there was really no serious information exchanged. The interrogation begins: His family is really nice (or really desperate) I mean they really don't ask me any questions. When we get up to get lunch and sit down in the dining room, my uncle offers me his seat, which is conveniently next to the guy (go uncle!) And so we just start talking and I get all my questions in. I mean, those of you who know me know that I can get along with pretty much anyone. So we're talking and whatever and I'm thinking, "you know what? I could see myself married to this guy." I could see myself married to pretty much any guy. The question is what do I really want? My analysis: He was a nice enough guy, investment banker, but something just wasn't clicking. In a roundabout way I asked him what his favorite book was, and he pretty much didn't have an answer. The truth is I really would like to be with someone who's on my level as far as things like that go, is that selfish? am I ever going to find someone who is compatible to me? I mean this boy was perfect as far as family background and stuff goes. He also was relatively intelligent, we discussed all sorts of topics and he pretty much kept up with me, politics and stuff like that. I don't know...(sigh). And it was such a smooth meeting. At one point I got up to get something and my uncle said "if you need to talk, you can go out in the garden" but I said right away that I didn't think that was necessary. I don't know. I tried to give this guy a chance, I really did. He was a nice guy, okay looking, totally decent, good family, ambitious, hard-working, conservative yet open-minded, but there was just nothing compelling me to want to spend the rest of my life with him. After this realization: So then he was trying to ask me questions, but by this time I decided to be a bit reticent. I mean why volunteer information to someone you're not interested in? Then they got up and I said salaams to his family and bye nice meeting you to him and they were gone. I went to the bathroom before anyone could ask me anything. When i got to the living room, everyone was waiting for me. "So?" The Answer: I said "I don't think so." And then was forced to go into a detailed discussion. Basically I made clear that he seemed like a really nice guy, but I just don't think we're a good match. My uncle said yeah, I think we need to get someone with a masters or PhD for Sadaf. I don't know, I don't think it's like that, but I do need some sort of intellectual stimulation. I mean this person has to interest me for the rest of my life, right? We had a good discussion. So finally, this episode in my life is over. It wasn't that bad, actually it went pretty smoothly, and I've learned some things. These people will also be able to move on, so that's good. As my mom said: "One down, three to go." "Wait, who are the three?" "I can't tell you..." lol...the craziness never stops...
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Oh to summer in LA	[Aug. 6th, 2004\|12:08 am]
Basically, I've been here since June 26th and I'll leave on August 21st. It's been so incredibly nice here. The weather is awesome and my research on Al-Huda in Pakistan is actually really interesting. I think I want to settle here in LA. Today I talked to Adam and he asked me if I've ever read "Why I'm not a Muslim" by Ibn Warraq... I guess I should read it just to see what it says...
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I'm flattered, really :)

[Aug. 2nd, 2004|10:52 am]

Rumilover's LJ stalker is djflipbunny!

djflipbunny is stalking you because your LiveJournal is just SO damned interesting. They are also getting with your significant other!

LJ Stalker Finder
From Go-Quiz.com

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Pumpkin Lasagna	[Aug. 2nd, 2004\|12:56 am]
I had this yummy lasagna at a restaurant in LA today. I went with Noura (she was visiting me this week). I have my second draft of my paper due tomorrow, so obviously I'm procrastinating and looked up a recipe for pumpkin lasagna, if any of ya'll try it, let me know how it turns out. In unrelated news, this year has been the strangest, every person who has been in your life returns, type of year... In more vague and random comments, I'm amused by the fact that I'm so much more chill about my one friend who refuses to contact me. Oh well, his loss. Pumpkin Lasagna --http://www.webwombat.com.au/lifestyle/food_wine/recipes/pumpkinl.htm Ingredients 2 tbsp olive oil 2 onions, chopped 900g Swiss chard (tough stems removed, leaves washed well and chopped) 2 1/4 tsp salt 1 tsp fresh-ground black pepper 1 tsp dried sage 1/2 tsp grated nutmeg 750g (3 cups) fresh roasted pumpkin 375ml (1 1/2 cups) heavy cream 185g (1 1/2 cups) grated Parmesan cheese 125ml (1/2 cup) milk 185g of no-boil lasagne noodles 15g (1 tbsp) butter Method 1. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, over moderately low heat and add the onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes, in general. 2. Increase the heat to moderately high and add the chard, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon sage, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Cook until the chard becomes wilted and no liquid remains in the pan, about 5 to 10 minutes. 3. In a medium bowl, mix together 500g (2 cups) of the pumpkin, 185ml (3/4 cup) cream, 60g (1/2 cup) Parmesan, and the remaining 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon sage, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. 4. Preheat the oven to 200C (400F). Pour the milk into a baking dish. Place one third of the noodles in the baking dish then spread half the pumpkin mixture over the noodles. Layer half the Swiss chard over the pumpkin and top with a second layer of noodles. 5. Repeat with another layer of pumpkin, Swiss chard, and noodles. 6. Combine the remaining 250g (1 cup) of pumpkin and 185ml (3/4 cup) of cream. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the lasagne, sprinkle with the remaining 125g (1 cup) of Parmesan, and dot with the butter. 7. Cover with aluminium foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake until golden, about 15 minutes more. Tip: Spinach can be used instead of chard.
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"ethnic" clothing?	[Jul. 26th, 2004\|06:25 pm]
http://www.desiwear.com/ any thoughts?
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You know when you're teary for no reason?

[Jul. 24th, 2004|11:44 pm]

[

Current Music

Har Taraf (Feat. Samira Said)

]

Like anything slightly depressing or even happy or uplifting makes you all teary-eyed? That's how I feel right now. I'm listing to this song and it's making me feel so.... I don't know. I haven't updated on LA really, but I will I promise. I had forgotten how nice it is to work in your own room late at night with all the comforts of home (I'm at my aunt's place tonight working on my paper). I hope this paper works out well, I feel as though my whole future in academia (or lack thereof) depends on my ability to do a good job. Okay, enough procrastinating!

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changes in women's dress in Pakistan and India	[Jul. 18th, 2004\|06:50 pm]
Hey everyone, I'm trying to write a research paper about women's "piety movements" in Pakistan and I was wondering if any of you could help me out. I want to focus on both the homogenization of Islam -- specifically with reference to the changes of clothing of Pakistani and Indian Muslim women -- as well as the hyper-modern ideology that many of these movements to "Islamize" women's dress espouse. This whole topic was inspired by a friend's comments that more and more women in Pakistan seem to be wearing burkhas and niqab, but I'm having a difficult time finding any scholarly work or statistics about it. I would really appreciate any input you or any suggestions for books, journals or websites that I might refer to as well as any personal or anecdotal comments. Thanks! *Sadaf
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the first poem I ever wrote...	[Jun. 21st, 2004\|04:44 pm]
Entanglement From the first beautifully tragic syllable that emerged from your soul and slipped past your lips My heart has been entrapped Like no other being Your words express the uncovered emotions at my core Though our words may be insignificant in the end For a brief, blissful moment our souls escape our bodies and entwine in an inescapably complicated lovers knot. This beautiful, winding dance, This heart-wrenching motion all all that can be envisioned as I dream Each inevitable separation destroys a part of my soul That cannot be replenished But there is endless joy in awaiting The next entanglement
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back home	[Jun. 2nd, 2004\|12:16 pm]
imagine waking up and not knowing where you are. This was definitely my feeling when I woke up my first day back in Chicago. It was strange, I was expecting to see my bed, in my apartment and look over my balcony and sit under my chandeliers in my living room and watch my TV, but in the end none of those things ended up being mine. I get very attached to spaces and as I paced back and forth across my appartment I stopped and felt the constriction in my chest and almost started crying but said "not now." That night at my dinner everyone kept asking me "how do you have so many friends?" and I thought what a contrast it was to last semester. That moment I thought: I really have made some great friends in Cairo who I will miss dearly. The people who really mean something to me I will most probably see again, but the problem is that we will not be all together like we are now.
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everyone's doing it	[May. 20th, 2004\|02:19 pm]
1. Go into your LJ's archives. 2. Find your 23rd post (or closest to). 3. Find the fifth sentence (or closest to). 4. Post the text of the sentence in your blog along with these instructions. 25 Mar 2003 "on the way home i was just thinking about morality and if its non-existent and if i was just overreacting, but if i wore a hijab i wouldn't have to deal with this shit." I was actually thinking about this incident the other day. I have to remind myself that men have been sketchy to me in many different countries on many different continents, but Cairo is still by far the worst...
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long time no post

[May. 18th, 2004|06:52 pm]

It's been forever since I've posted and so much has happened in my life I don't even know where do start. I think at some point I'll backtrack and cover my travels to Lebanon, Syria and Jordan, but for now I'll settle on the simple joy of a Naseer Shamma concert last night at the Cairo Opera House. I love Sofia because she's actually proactive about the things that I just think about doing. She went over to the opera house earlier that day and we (Shenaaz, Sofia, me, Tristan and Naveed) got all dressed up and headed over there. I think this is the most pictures I've taken with a group since the prom, but it was a good time, and everyone looked soooo nice. Why can't boys wear suits all the time?

Anyways, the opera house itself was beautiful and I experienced that same feeling I have anytime I do something that I haven't done in Egypt before and think "yes, this is amazing, but why did I wait so long??? What was I doing last semester?" As we were listening to him play the 'oud, I had this beautiful feeling inside, it really is as if the vibrations are going straight to your soul, the sound of longing to return to the Divine. And yet there I was, steeped in my fantasy world thinking "how much more beautiful would this be if I had someone to share it with?" Who will that person ever be? Does he exist? I'm glad I caught myself and thought "no, it will never be more beautiful than it is now, don't let your pessimism take hold of this beauty and turn it in to something it's not." When I really sat there and focused on the music, opened my heart, I entered such a state of joy. As always I thanked God that I had such a beautiful and painful life -- could here the sounds of his strings, could sit in the gorgeous concert hall and gaze with childlike fascination at the lamps on the sides of the aisles. I always have been easily pleased, but I think of it as a virtue. I feel disgusted with myself if I get too caught up in sophistication. As if beauty is only the pleasure of the aristocracy.

Sofia was translating Shamma's comments to us, and I hope inshallah I'll understand arabic as well as Sofia does someday. Like I said earlier though, I really regretted the fact that I'd never been to the opera before. I keep thinking about how this semester has been so amazing in so many ways, mostly due to the company of the amazing friends that I've had here: Sofia, Shenaaz, Naveed, Nema, Dina, Ryan, Matt, Tom and soo many more. Naveed made a comment about me disappearing with Sarah last semester and it ws really interesting because I had just been thinking about my first semester her