I am Muslim But I'm Not...

2015-09-28T22:49:34-04:00

There is a concerted effort by some folks here to paint all Muslims in a negative light. In fact a small but very vocal few refuse to believe anything other than their already-held belief that all Muslims are bad. I found a video on Buzzfeed I'd like to share and hopefully get some folks to stop being so close-minded.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/safiyanygaard/im-muslim-but-im-not#.th1QKnpDG

I'm Muslim, But I'm Not...

“I’m Muslim, but you can be whatever you want to be.”

Response by SSgt David Tedrow made Sep 28 at 2015 11:39 PM

2015-09-28T23:39:52-04:00

Good video.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 12:08 AM

2015-09-29T00:08:00-04:00

I think it is extremely important for people to realize they can't paint an entire religion with one brush and doing so only perpetuates more violence and issues as a result of misunderstanding.

Response by PO3 Jonathan Cooper made Sep 29 at 2015 1:57 AM

2015-09-29T01:57:23-04:00

I'm still trying to figure out how there is this much demonizing of Muslims by service members. Is this all because of post-9/11 "we're good and they're bad" mindset or is this more of a cultural upbringing mindset?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 2:07 AM

2015-09-29T02:07:24-04:00

I'll be frank... I'm not a fan of Islam, or a fan of Christianity for that matter. I do understand that if everyone doesn't enjoy religious freedom, then none of us really have religious freedom. That's why it's important that those of us who love Liberty stand up for the right of all Americans to freely practice their religion and that we insist the government remain neutral with regard to religion.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made Sep 29 at 2015 2:08 AM

2015-09-29T02:08:54-04:00

It is a serious issue how Muslims are viewed and the lack of education people have about them. Even on RP I've read comments about Mohammad and the Koran that I know are false, but people want to believe what they want to believe and see no need to get the real information. Part of the reason i am thinking of learning Arabic is so I can a better understanding of their culture.

Yes we have extremists but so does every religion, to say all Muslims hate non Muslims is simply incorrect and a sign of tunnel vision and a lack of trying to understand.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Sep 29 at 2015 2:27 AM

2015-09-29T02:27:30-04:00

Some wonderful Ladies changing perceptions.

How to eat pork, drink booze and be a 'good' Muslim

What's the difference between a "good" Muslim and a "bad" one? Two women and their podcast are on a mission to find out.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 2:29 AM

2015-09-29T02:29:27-04:00

Oh stop we see immigrants around the world engaging in violence in their new countries and I would totally support Muslims in all respects if not for their hate and open declarations of violence. This is not even debatable.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Sep 29 at 2015 2:32 AM

2015-09-29T02:32:19-04:00

Another wonderful Gentleman that I enjoy quite a bit of what he writes.

Home - Fethullah Gülen's Official Web Site

Fethullah Gülen's Official Web Site. fgulen.com is the offical source on Fethullah Gülen, the renowned Turkish scholar and intellectual.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 3:52 AM

2015-09-29T03:52:15-04:00

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCHHfBeu0QE

Hitchens explains Islam and why it is so STUPID.

Christopher Hitchens covers Islam nicely here. This is chapter nine from "God Is Not Great". EVERY day is now Draw MuHammad Day! *Please note that MANY comme...

Response by SPC Joshua Heath made Sep 29 at 2015 9:20 AM

2015-09-29T09:20:40-04:00

Thank you, sir. I am not a Muslim, but I'm a proud proponent of our pluralistic society. Regardless of your faith or lack of faith, it is our dedication to this country that binds us together.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 9:27 AM

2015-09-29T09:27:06-04:00

Captain-Speaking from the Christian side of the fence, my instincts are...and always have been...to regard the religious beliefs of others to be as much their personal right as my own. This is admittedly "easier" when referencing the two world faiths sharing so many common doctrines and origins with my own-Judaism and Islam.

It's not strictly the subject matter RP strives to focus upon, neither is it one that can be addressed in a few short lines (I apologize for the resulting lack of brevity). However, as a brother officer, fellow American and man of deep seated religious beliefs myself-I think it's appropriate to respond to your post as follows.

Faith-The word means belief in something that is not proven...the "evidence of things hoped for", it's been said. To some, this, in and of itself, is enough to evoke suspicion. While I will strive to remain honest, and admit that Christianity still enjoys a great amount of influence in the U.S. despite much "doom-saying", I can just as honestly report that my belief in a single, all powerful Creator and omnipotent God, no to mention the validity of scriptural texts attributed to His influence, has garnered me rejection and insult in the past, and with increasing frequency today. American ideology espouses inclusion, individuality, and in the modern context...the critical review of long held cultural/social norms. As a result, any system of belief that teaches certain truths are immutable (such as the origins of life, the correct order of authority in the home, or the proper nature of sexuality) is likely to come under scrutiny. We've debated the proper place of faith in American society since our earliest days. Irish Roman Catholics were persecuted in the U.S. Army during the mid-19th century. Jews were discriminated against to such an extent, it may have only been the horrors of the Holocaust that illuminated the dangers of anti-Semitism to many Americans. Even today, communities are divided between Protestant, Catholic, and a plethora of sub-set denominations...not to mention the endless debates between these entities and those choosing no faith whatsoever.

This is nothing surprising, new, or unique to Islam.

What has changed, if anything, is the tempo and level of conflict we see globally along these lines. When everyone in a nation shares similar beliefs, the fact that those beliefs exclude others rarely comes into question. The faith I adhere to DOES "exclude" those unwilling to accept the basic doctrinal components therein, and turn from behavior it teaches against...I assume Islam contains similar constraints. The question then becomes...what does each faith instruct it's believers to do when confronted with those unwilling to accept and repent? Christ's words are very clear, and echoed in the writings of the Apostles, perhaps no clearer than in 1 Corinthians, when Christians are exhorted to challenge immorality among their own congregations ,and to shun from that company those who consistently and willfully continue to reject teaching. Contained within those same texts (1 Cor. 5) is clear guidance that the world is to be expected to be immoral...and an environment we endure in this life, seeking to influence through teaching and love towards righteousness.

What is lacking, throughout the "New Testament"...the scriptures considered by traditional Christian theology to be the "re-defined" contract between God and mankind as given to Abraham and Moses centuries earlier...is any command to compel the non-believer by force, let alone, violence. Many critics point out the rather graphic elements of Old Testament teaching as "proof" Christianity orders violence...but they do so by ignoring the context of God's personal judgement, and the message of forgiveness and peace "purchased" by the singular and heroic sacrifice of the Messiah. Is it possible that the words of the Islamic texts, originating after this sacrifice, have been misnterpreted as well (Quran 2:191-193)?

This is the question that confronts many-and for most, is what determines if being a "doctrinal" or "traditional" adherent of either faith poses a "threat". As a "doctrinal" Christian, I consider homosexuality, "straight" sexual activity outside of conventional marriage, greed, lust, deceit, anger, selfishness and irresponsibility all threads in the fabric of humanity's "sinful" nature...Those same doctrines also instruct me to accept that these are the world's ways, and through example, try to show as many people as possible the way of righteousness. For this reason, I may oppose "gay marriage"...but equally oppose violence aimed at homosexuals. Similarly, I may argue for the preservation of my faith's place in American society...but am not prepared to ensure it through violence. The examples of Christ, the Apostles and numerous other Christian leaders compel me to be willing to show compassion...even to those who hate everything I believe in. "Acceptance" and "tolerance" are often mislabeled as "compassion"...but it is clear that no follower of Christ is looking to join, lead or inspire an earthly, physical war against their enemies.

Never the less, the "religion" of Christianity has often done so throughout history-as many of it's opponents are eager to point out.

Islam falls under similar scrutiny because the history of broad violence in it's name is far more recent. "Christians" may have committed the massacre at Acre...and allowed the nightmare of the Inquisition...but that was some time ago. If Islam's spiritual, doctrinal heart does NOT espouse such violence...it's believers must prove that; the same as Christians such as myself are daily compelled to watch society systematically reject Christ's teachings without mounting a "holy war". If, on the other hand, there is a message of conquest and subjugation driving "orthodox" Muslims at any level...it is only natural for those falling into the category of an enemy to be concerned.

I served alongside, and have had close Muslim friends. One of the most amazing moments of my spiritual life was when an Afghan friend asked me to talk about being a Christian, as we were both observing morning prayers. When I described the message of Christ, he responded more simply and perfectly than I've heard dozens of ministers attempt to, "...this makes sense". Perhaps that admission alone would be enough to "condemn" him by the laws of Islam...perhaps not.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Sep 29 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-09-29T09:53:25-04:00

Courtesy of the Newspaper Political Cartoonist.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Sep 29 at 2015 11:15 AM

2015-09-29T11:15:16-04:00

CPT Ahmed Faried - Thank you for posting that video, although I do not think a few people making comments about their alleged personal beliefs will do anything to change people's minds.

The problem I see with the negative impression of Muslims by many is that the vast majority do not speak up and decry the actions of radical Islamists, which, in many eyes, is tantamount to supporting those actions. Unless they start doing so, they will always be suspect. Whether that is fair or not, it is simply a fact. Only Muslims will change that by their actions... not by a few people who were paid to do so in a marketing video.

Response by MAJ James Woods made Sep 29 at 2015 1:43 PM

2015-09-29T13:43:45-04:00

Well said and unfortunately will always fall on deaf ears of those who are just intolerant of anyone and anything that's different from them.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 1:52 PM

2015-09-29T13:52:09-04:00

I hate to say this the 99% of those who hate Muslims and Islam will continue to do so whether you put out a video. With the polarization of our society and the notion that every sect or lifestyle wants more than equal treatment, people will continue to hate and thrive on the drama.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made Sep 29 at 2015 1:56 PM

2015-09-29T13:56:04-04:00

It doesn't matter. Minds are made up. They will blame it on Muslims "not speaking out" while personally having absolutely no knowledge of what's actually going on in Muslim communities and taking nothing of actual importance into account.

It reminds me a whole lot of stereotypical abuser mentality - "I wouldn't have to hit you if you didn't..."

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made Sep 29 at 2015 2:23 PM

2015-09-29T14:23:20-04:00

To be honest I never seen a mosques or even met a Muslim, until I had a tdy in Saudi Arabia. And Um not a scholar on the Koran. And you can correct me if I'm wrong. Obama father was a Muslim. Obama went to a madrasah ( I didn't google it and not sure if the spelling is right). Know the only real Americans are Native Americans. I'm an American but my roots are Dutch. So why does Obama minions in the house and the media. Go nuts when a man steps out at a town hall saying that he is a Muslim. Does Obama thinks that's a dirty word?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 9:13 PM

2015-09-29T21:13:48-04:00

CPT Ahmed Faried I like this video a lot. This is a great post.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Sep 29 at 2015 9:25 PM

2015-09-29T21:25:47-04:00

CPT Ahmed Faried thank you for posting this. I hope that you've changed some minds, but I fear that the minds that you want to changed, won't be. You can't fix willful ignorance.

Response by PO3 Sherry Thornburg made Sep 29 at 2015 10:40 PM

2015-09-29T22:40:20-04:00

Knowing that Muslims have as many opinions about their faith as Baptists is important. Unfortunately, the Muslims that are in the news shouting for death to America would put those kids to death for being traitors to their faith along with non-Muslims.

Houston has a large population of Muslims from Iraq and Iran and other countries who came here fleeing repressive governments. They are mostly good people and we hope they will continue to help us deal with the present dangerous political climate, showing us the difference between what we see in the news and what peaceful Islam can be.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2015 10:56 PM

2015-09-29T22:56:07-04:00

Thank you for posting this CPT Ahmed Faried. I saw this a few days ago come across Facebook, and had planned to share it. However, I had to change my mind because of the horrific statements that were being made to these individuals in the comments section. I am not talking about the bigoted people who have an ignorant hatred of all things Muslim, but the Muslims who were condemning these people for this video. I don't want to get into the details of the comments other than most were along the taglines of "I'm Muslim, But I'm Not Muslim", with anywhere from threats to simple disagreements.

It was disappointing to me to see those comments, because this is exactly the kind of thing that I was talking about with you on the other post. Videos like these, are what people in America need to see, and they need to outnumber the videos of Wahhabists beheading Christians, throwing gays off buildings, proclaiming death to the Jews, etc. I know that the overwhelming majority of Muslims are peaceful people, but that does not override the fact that crazed psychopaths in Middle East are using the religion as a tool for hateful purposes. I just hope that as Americans we can eventually get over the misconception that ISIS represents all Islam, and start to clearly distinguish the difference between peaceful Muslims and the terrorist networks around the world using Islam to encourage violence towards the Western World... However, I worry that until the radicals are stopped and can no longer propagate the idea that what they do is justified under Islam, most people are too ignorant to realize there is good and evil everywhere in this world, and it is not confined to one race, one religion, or one social class.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-09-30T16:08:57-04:00

The reality is that militaries dehumanize and demonize their enemies to make them easier to kill. It's been that way since the beginning of time.

The issue today is that with all the media, much less the internet, the same gets pushed to the public at large as well.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 30 at 2015 4:12 PM

2015-09-30T16:12:15-04:00

I have many very good friends that are Muslims and a few devote. They are not happy about things going on in the world then we are.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 3:09 AM

2015-10-01T03:09:03-04:00

I guess I might be one of the "bad" guys here, after reading all the other posts... with that said, good evening Sir, I'll try to be as brief as I can.

Off course, not all of any people are horrible and evil - whatever creed, nationality, ethnicity, race they may be. A fact is, and I've conveyed this idea on another topic(s) here on RP, is that the most vocal Muslims tend to be the most violent and in control, and I haven't personally seen/heard much resistance or public denial (not sure if I'm formulating this correctly) by the same, in whatever country/group they are. On top of that, YES, there is the media and certain constituents pushing their own agenda, painting them better or worse (that's a whole other topic), couple that with current events and what has already transpired, and that equals to hatred and tension between us and them, ie. Christians and Muslims (not exclusively, but to be on this topic). After Iraq and Afghanistan, specially with servicemembers (someone here already highlighted that), that gets to a whole new level, since people have endured personal losses, one way or another, and in a sense, it may seem a little late to fix the picture on how we perceive them and what takes place (doesn't mean good people on both sides need to give up and do nothing, because the absence of the same enables evil people to carry out their plan of the day). I'm not going to go into anymore details, but I hope I relayed the idea.

On the flip side - not all of us have perhaps all the facts from the affected areas (wherever there is conflict and multiple religions/sects present) - YES, there were atrocities committed by Christians, you can say, so I'm not saying one is perfect or more peaceful than the other, however with the current events, and this agenda of pushing these people over the border, rise in terrorism and more importantly, this liberal movement and groups that is making all things that were once normal ABnormal, people doing whatever the f*** they want, everyone crying for rights and abuse at the same time, we have to tend to our OWN problems and survival. This too is another sad discussion to be held on a separate topic.

I don't think all Muslims are bad, that's absurd, as with any religion. It's the one's we hear and see on TV that are garbage and inciting more hate.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 7:24 AM

2015-10-01T07:24:32-04:00

One must separate Islamist and Muslim. Then Muslim must fight Islamist within their faith communities or it will not matter. Minds will be closed sooner or later... and things will not be good for everyone.

Response by SSG John Erny made Oct 1 at 2015 10:06 AM

2015-10-01T10:06:31-04:00

I have worked for and with Muslims in the civilian world and all have been very good people. Some followed their faith and others did not practice their faith; they would hang out with the guys and drink a beer. While deployed I have even seen locals who were eating in out DFAC eat bacon!
I think most Muslims would be quite happy if the radicals would go away.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Oct 1 at 2015 10:34 AM

2015-10-01T10:34:12-04:00

Pretty good video. We need more like that to get mainstream.

Response by SrA Edward Vong made Oct 1 at 2015 10:37 AM

2015-10-01T10:37:37-04:00

I'm neither Muslim nor am I Christian, but just to even things up, I will be posting this video. All religion have a dark history, but overall they teach everyone to be a good person. Everyone should put aside their differences to make the world a better place.

This is not to counter the Muslim video, but a video to show that everyone is a good person. Unfortunately the negative light is currently shed on Muslims.

I’m Christian, But I’m Not

“Love is the most important thing.” Check out more awesome BuzzFeedYellow videos! http://bit.ly/YTbuzzfeedyellow Check out more awesome videos at BuzzFeedVid...

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 11:37 AM

2015-10-01T11:37:54-04:00

Part of the problem is both sides of this are all or nothing, neither side is willing to compromise. Of course not all muslims are bad, however they aren't all good either, just like jews and gentiles. We also live in a society where we can't say that muslims a credible threat to nonmuslims. Which is where we get made up terms like "islamofacist". The answer is in the middle, most of the problems seem to start though when muslim communities can't coexist with nonmuslim communities. Even something as simple as referring to a christian or a jew as an "infidel" is contrary to the koran. The lie in that video is "you can be whatever you want to be" which is not true according to Islamic tradition. You can be christian or jew, but you can not be equal to a muslim.

Response by SPC Luis Mendez made Oct 1 at 2015 12:23 PM

2015-10-01T12:23:38-04:00

I had a Muslim acquaintance told me "Merry Christmas" every year. My son had a Muslim friend that helped him find his first job. Unfortunately the bad ones are too many. I believe those in the US are not for the most part the bad ones.

But there are Plenty of bad and criminal elements in the Nation that are NOT Muslim.

So when it comes to watch out for the bad guys, I watch for all including WASP's without prejudice.

Response by Cpl Matthew Wall made Oct 1 at 2015 2:35 PM

2015-10-01T14:35:07-04:00

Let's see if I can remember something from when I was in......"Not all Muslim's are terrorist, but all terrorist are Muslim". There are extremists in the Muslim religion, but it doesn't get painted that way. Also, I know that now all terrorist are Muslim.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 6:08 PM

2015-10-01T18:08:34-04:00

Just like not all Republicans or whites are haters...never say everyone of a group is anything.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2015 8:35 PM

2015-10-01T20:35:38-04:00

The issue's that Islam has is propegated by the main stream media painting the 1.5billion population that practices Islam as radicals. This is hardly the truth as with 1.5 Billion people there are a small percentage that are radical. The radical countries are few but the media focuses on those countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan. This is why muslims are viewed in such a negative light, even when the majority of Islam denounces the radicals.

Response by PO2 Peter Klein made Oct 1 at 2015 9:55 PM

2015-10-01T21:55:04-04:00

I agree with Col. Burleson, not enough Muslims are decrying the deeds of the militants. To many non-Muslims the quiet is deafening!

Response by SSG Jesus Sijalbo made Oct 2 at 2015 1:03 AM

2015-10-02T01:03:10-04:00

When someone tells me I'm a bad person It takes all thats good in me to impower the truth about me! Just my two cents short of a dollar.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 16 at 2015 3:34 PM

2015-10-16T15:34:56-04:00

The big problem is, there are millions of Muslims outside the US that wish to do harm to our country.

Response by PO2 Christopher Foss made Oct 28 at 2015 11:59 AM

2015-10-28T11:59:30-04:00

CPT Ahmed Faried Captain, I applaud your intentions, but I would like to offer some advice in the hopes of making your message more effective. As I tell people when I am editing their work, comment is as important as content. I consider your content to be very important, but your comment starts out being confrontational. If you are serious about lobbying for your cause, please try to focus on the positive in your opening statements. I am not saying that it is unacceptable to make statements that are confrontational, but it is more likely that they will be read if they come after you have engaged the reader in a positive fashion.

Response by PV2 Scott Goodpasture made Oct 28 at 2015 12:10 PM

2015-10-28T12:10:48-04:00

I'm German but I'm not a nazi. Didn't really help the 20,000,000 who died in WWII. Only 30% of Germans were nazis. Maybe if the other 70% would have stood up and said or did something things could have been different. Oh well to late for that as well as this

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 28 at 2015 12:16 PM

2015-10-28T12:16:50-04:00

I think it is difficult on several areas to be able to separate the radical from the everyday muslim. When the news is filled each day with stories about ISIS, Iran and the occasional Al Qaida story and they never have stories of local leaders of the muslim community speaking out against these actions. I am sure many have, it is the lack of coverage by the media that forces us to believe they support what is happening.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Oct 28 at 2015 12:33 PM

2015-10-28T12:33:19-04:00

Oh wow. Loved the video but was saddened to see these vibrant youth are now targets for the extreme elements of the faith. You get that in race as well. Remember when Gabby Douglas (incredible gymnast) was berated as "Unkempt" because she straightened her hair so she could shower and go? Much of the bias by the general public is because we don't get it and don't want to get it. That's being human because we want our "normal" and changes to "normal" are being forced upon us, sometimes with violent result. We're all somewhere on the bell curve. The vast majority of most any faith want to live in peace and be respected. Let's make sure we always keep that in mind.

Sea story here. I hired a Muslim engineer (great guy, doting father, etc.). Soon after 9/11 some Fed suits showed up wanting him to report on whatever at his mosque. Needless to say, I jumped down their throats and made sure they exited the base. My engineer was very grateful for the support and asked why I did it. Easy, he was my employee and I take care of my people; end of story. He eventually obtained another Federal position primarily because there wasn't much of his preferred community west of Seattle and wanted to be closer to his preferred mosque. Lost touch over the past 5-6 years but I'm sure he and his family are doing fine.

Response by SSG Michael Scott made Oct 29 at 2015 12:29 PM

2015-10-29T12:29:07-04:00

Sorry, on that account after what I witnessed in Iraq, my mind was made up on 9-11.

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Oct 30 at 2015 2:14 PM

2015-10-30T14:14:35-04:00

All I can say is that the faith of Islam is one of non tolerance of other religions. If you look in the Koran there are many references to where the goal of Islam is to convert the non believers or to kill them. According to Islam their is only one true religion and all others are non believers and should be killed.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2015 4:28 PM

2015-10-30T16:28:54-04:00

The problem is that many of the "peaceful majority" still ideologically support radical Islam and do nothing to speak or fight against it. I have known many Muslims and know that many Muslims are regular people, however the religious and political beliefs of Islam has created perpetual war and violence. The fact that you have aligned yourself with these beliefs does not make one a bad person, but being that those that are committing these atrocities claim to be doing them on your behalf and calling you to do the same.

Response by TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA made Oct 30 at 2015 7:01 PM

2015-10-30T19:01:34-04:00

Capt Ahmed F. I salute your service and stance ... and hope that your convictions, beliefs, actions and duty directs you to the protection, safety and security of ALL people, by the people and for the people... with one nation under God... in which our founding fathers build upon judeo christian values, such as these principles: #1- The Dignity Of Human Life, Principle #2 - The Traditional Family, Principle #3 - A National Work Ethic, Principle #4 - The Right To A God-Centered Education, Principle # 5- The Abrahamic Covenant, Principle #6 - Common Decency, and
Principle #7- Our Personal Accountability To God... (Written by Seven Principles of the Judeo-Christian Ethic, By Dr. Richard Lee. Editor, The American Patriot's Bible)»

Response by TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA made Nov 5 at 2015 5:10 AM

2015-11-05T05:10:25-05:00

https://flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com/2015/11/05/what-is-apocalyptic-islam-and-why-is-it-so-dangerous-the-research-behind-my-remarks-to-the-jerusalem-leaders-summit/

What is "Apocalyptic Islam" and why is it so dangerous? The research behind my remarks to the...

(Jerusalem, Israel) -- Eschatology is not a word that typically comes up in public policy forums. Yesterday afternoon, however, I had the honor of addressing the Jerusalem Leaders Summit here in th...

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Nov 6 at 2015 9:26 AM

2015-11-06T09:26:41-05:00

From our friends to the North...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib-JMifAKyw

Little Mosque on the Prairie Season 01 Episode 001 Little Mosque

Little Mosque on the Prairie,little mosque on the prairie season 1 episode 1,little mosque on the prairie season 6,little mosque on the prairie season 2,litt...

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Nov 25 at 2015 1:46 PM

2015-11-25T13:46:50-05:00

People will always label and make excuses about someone else religious background, I don't care what a person religious affiliation there are bad apples in every group. There is no perfect religion, and any slandering and attacks among our U.S Armed Forces personnel is only dividing the Forces, if we are going to win the war on terrorism, first we have to stop making war on each other.

Response by MSgt Michelle Mondia made Nov 25 at 2015 4:30 PM

2015-11-25T16:30:30-05:00

Do you think that America and western countries allow Muslims to be more moderate? Is Islam open to criticism? I'm Catholic yet I'm very critical of the church and out spoken about its violence and issues. I don't hear very much critisism of Islam. Religion period has divided us. Do you know any Muslims who have renounced their faith because of the violence propagated by the scriptures? I say that with reservations...I realize the Koran doesn't promote or condone violence but it's interpretation by extreamists has. For instance, Christians are responsible for a history of violence but there's no misinterpreting the fact that Jesus said love your enemy's, treat your neighbor as yourself and people still get that twisted. I don't know much about the prophet Mohamed...what did he want for his people? What was the conflict in his story? I ask this because these two (three if you consider Judaism) are all Abrahamic religions stemming from the same man with the same idea, a one true God. How are we so divided? Do you think there's a platform for moderate Islam? Or are those voices often persecuted? and if so how can the rest of the world support them?

Response by PV2 Scott Goodpasture made Nov 25 at 2015 7:24 PM

2015-11-25T19:24:44-05:00

Still waiting for you and others like you to condem extremists instead of listening to you whine that not all Muslims are bad. It gets real boring

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Nov 26 at 2015 12:13 PM

2015-11-26T12:13:36-05:00

I've known many Muslims in my travels to Iraq and Egypt and never met one I didn't like. My wife and I stayed with an Egyptian family for 3 weeks in Giza back in 2000. My wife always wears a cross necklace and our hosts neighbors accepted that. We had a great time being involved in the family activities.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Nov 29 at 2015 12:28 AM

2015-11-29T00:28:42-05:00

I helped train about 40 infantry battalions from several deferent countries in Africa to fight against the Islamic terrorists. Each and every battalion trained had Muslim service members, some were predominantly Muslim, some were 99% Muslim. They all went off to keep the peace and fight the terrorist as necessary. There are many, many, good "Army green" brothers and sisters out there who are Muslims.

Response by MSG Jay Jackson made Nov 29 at 2015 8:59 PM

2015-11-29T20:59:19-05:00

I just wonder is I could go to Mecca and build a Baptist church? After all we have many mosques in the US. An Islam is a peaceful religion right?

Response by TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA made Dec 1 at 2015 11:12 PM

2015-12-01T23:12:36-05:00

Michigan and Cities Across the USA... THEY ARE HERE... Michigan has fallen!... https://cqrcengage.com/act/app/document/10499226

In the first majority-Muslim U.S. city, residents tense about its future

Karen Majewski was in such high demand in her vintage shop on a recent Saturday afternoon that a store employee threw up her hands when yet another visitor came in to chat. Everyone wanted to talk to the mayor about the big political news.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2015 3:19 PM

2015-12-04T15:19:44-05:00

good for you your muslim, since when did faith matter in the Army. Im catholic but I don't send catholic videos to show people the nice stuff about us

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2015 6:18 PM

2015-12-04T18:18:22-05:00

Any man who wears this uniform is my brother, and the same goes to any man who loves this country truly, regardless of his status or religion. I find it shameful that the people of this country are so blind to the real problem and will so quickly blame the easiest target.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 5 at 2015 1:10 AM

2015-12-05T01:10:51-05:00

It's not all of Islam we have to worry about, although it is worrisome to say the least that people are finding a group like ISIS appealing. It's the exact same ploy that all terror organizations use: they target areas that have no schools, only a mosque, and tell them that Allah commands them to follow their ways. Same thing Bin Laden did, same thing that the IRA did in Ireland... It a lack of real, actual education that is causing this. Why do you think they want a Theocracy? It's because it is a lot easier to motivate an uneducated populace when you tell them God is commanding them, instead of just some asshole.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 5 at 2015 6:49 AM

2015-12-05T06:49:45-05:00

Horseshit CPT Ahmed Faried

Response by TSgt John Temblador, PI, CIPA made Dec 5 at 2015 4:02 PM

2015-12-05T16:02:55-05:00

https://www.facebook.com/retainyourfreedom/videos/ [login to see] 30034/ EXPOSING OBAMA'S MUSLIM OPERATIVES IN HIS ADMINISTRATION

PLEASE SHARE.

Facebook

Response by CW3 Jim Norris made Dec 8 at 2015 11:29 AM

2015-12-08T11:29:20-05:00

I am a Christian, but I'm not requiring you to believe as I do, pay a demi-tax or die where I am the vast majority in the population. I do not have large numbers that believe as I do killing and maiming people all over the planet on a weekly, if not daily basis. I place no limits on your ability to build buildings to your faith or to repair those that exist. I do not in the name of my faith destroy thousand year old monuments to earlier civilizations. I do not prevent anyone from openly wearing a symbol of their faith or carrying their holy books in public. I do not block public thoroughfares for the convenience of my prayer. All of these things that I do not do are found in one or more muslim nations, neighborhoods and regions of the world.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Dec 27 at 2015 7:24 PM

2015-12-27T19:24:24-05:00

CPT Ahmed Faried Finally, Captain, something has appeared in a local newspaper.

The "Orange County, (CA), Register", today, (Sun, Dec 27, 2015, NEWS section, page 3), carried an article about a Muslim leader in Chattanooga, TN. who spoke out about his faith.

"Bassam Issa stepped in front of a crowded classroom of students this month at Southern Adventist University, a Christian college near here, for a presentation on being a Muslim in Chattanooga - recently named the United States' most 'Bible-minded city'.

Issa, a real estate developer and the president of his local mosque, was struggling with how to attack the assumption that Islam gives rise to terrorism, He knew the association was strong: only last July, here in Chattanooga, four Marines and a sailor were killed by in a terrorist rampage by a young Muslim man who grew up in the local community. Many people here now speak of that day, July 16, as 7/16, as if it were an echo of 9/11."

---------- much more followed.

Response by SCPO Larry Knight Sr. made Dec 30 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-12-30T14:58:32-05:00

CPT Ahmed F. everyone has their right to be and practice what ever they choose so to speak. How ever in the current light of things going on in the world today, Muslim/Islam isn't always on the likable side of the general populous . So with that said we just had a mosque burned here in the Houston, Texas area and they finally caught the arsonist today. I'll be go to hell if it wasn't a practicing (MUSLIM) of this mosque who torched the facility, and to beat all he's a former service member of our armed forces of years past ?
I'm of the generation that believes that if you are a radical islamist/Muslim your in for a short term life span ! I'm a veteran of the southeast Asian theater and quite frankly put (Islamists and or Muslims) in the same category as we did with (Charlie) the sorry PCS ! In your particular case it's just a tuff situation to be in, because that 1% in this great nation we so proudly serve and have served will always seek out and put down anyone of that sect.
So just continue serving proudly and move on with it the best you can.

Response by SSG Michael Scott made Feb 5 at 2016 12:44 PM

2016-02-05T12:44:17-05:00

sir, with all due respect, been there done that, because, of 9/11, and every other attack on other countries and the USA. I was there back in 2003/ Middle East, when I stepped off the plane, I smelled death, evil. I ran into a 1st SGT and he said "I hope you got plans, of not making it back to the US". Then, and there, I knew I had to prepare myself to meet my creator, if my name was called.

Response by CAPT Hiram Patterson made Feb 18 at 2016 1:05 PM

2016-02-18T13:05:21-05:00

I'm reading a book titled "The Heirs of Muhammed - Islam's First Century and the Origins of the Sunni-Shia Split" and am half-way through it. It's a fascinating historical book. Not exactly on topic but people need to read things like this to better understand Islam. The Sunni-Shia split is driving politics in Iraq and ISIS (Da'esh) in Iraq-Syria.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Apr 21 at 2016 12:43 PM

2016-04-21T12:43:10-04:00

When individuals learn to think for themselves and don't let other people opinions interfere, then we can see good and bad in all races and religions.