A call to young muslims…

It’s really important for young Muslims to trust and look up to their Imam for guidance but – let’s not forget – it’s also about personal responsibility. Whilst I will always answer people’s questions to the best of my ability, I also teach young people about the skills to deal with things themselves.

It is the responsibility of each and every one of us to make our community, our country and our world a better place.

There are 86,400 seconds in a single day – and every one of those moments is precious because when the sun sets each night that time is gone forever (we can’t put them in a bank account and save them for another day). Time is like a stream of water either you watch it go by or you benefit from it.

Each person is the master – and the doctor – of themselves. An Imam can only advise you; the rest is up to you. Only you can make the effort and decisions that will make you a better person everyday of your life.

We tend to think we have all the time in the world…. Sadly the time doesn’t wait for us.

Utilize you every breath, your mind and your energy! Educate yourselves! Remember knowledge is power!

A few tips on dealing with prejudice…

I know it can be hard to deal with prejudice against you; especially for young Muslims who have just starting practising the faith and who might be wearing headscarves and beards for the first time.

You will get looks from people on the bus or on the streets; some of them might think you are ‘an extremist’ or a ‘Looney’; you might even hear racist comments or be the subject of bullying. But don’t get discouraged or disheartened. These people are ignorant and need to be educated. Stay focused on your prayers and Allah will Inshallahu Ta’la (God Willing) support and help you. This is where the faith kicks in.

My advice to you young people is: don’t give up and don’t be afraid to speak up.

Do not fight or argue just explain calmly what it is your doing and how you see yourself, in response to how they are seeing you.

Set them straight.

Talk.

Firstly listen and then explain.

Remember: first educate yourself – so that you can educate others.

If you can clear up one misunderstanding you will be educating not just this person, but their family, their friends and their children as well. Here you would be dealing the root of the problem and you will be preventing misunderstanding and even violence in the future.