Pearls of Iraq

2006-12-04T02:58:00.000+01:00

As you can see there is has been a change with the blog. Pearls of Iraq blog will be down for a bit of time. I will be returning to Iraq and will be there, home, for hopefully 1-2 years or so. The situation is difficult, as everyone must imagine, so after with much thought, taking into many factors, for right now Pearls will be guarding her precious gems.

Thanks to everyone for the support, especially with the Iraq Kurdistan Book Drive. When the blog gets up and running again, I will contact some of the other bloggers. God Bless.

Pearls of Iraq on Vacation

2006-12-04T02:47:00.000+01:00

Iraq Kurdistan Book Drive

2006-11-22T13:54:00.000+01:00

Below is a list of donors. I want to thank each one of them for being a part of this important educational and cross-cultural peacebuilding project. Kudos!

Iraq Kurdistan Book Drive Donors

• American University School of International Service – Faculty and Students
• American University Alumni
• American University Library
• AU Phi Alpha Delta
• American University Students
• Special Angels in Kirkuk and Sulaimaniya
• Blair Academy and Blair’s Student Community and Parents Association
• Center for Peace Building International (CPBI) – Fundraising and Support for Shipping (http://www.cpbintl.org/ )
• Creative Peace Initiatives (CPI is an American University student organization that concentrates on service to the greater community working on issues of peace education and youth);
• Girl Scout Junior Troop 2539
• Karen – Holiday House
• Esq. Oller & Luzzi, LLC - Richard and Roberta Luzzi
• Nine Muses International, Inc
• Pearls of Iraq
• Publishers (Children Books)
• Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
• Individual donors including authors:
o Maliha Balala
o Dr. Naomi Susan Baron
o Dr. David Black
o Dr. Renee Marlin-Bennett
o Irving Karchmar
o Ramzi Nemo
o Dr. Louise I. Shelley
o Dr. Stanley Weiss
• USPS – “Michael” for spending his Saturday with me processing boxes with backbreaking dedication!
• UPS Drivers!

In Memory of 9/11

2006-09-11T14:37:00.000+02:00

The media blitz started mid August for 9/11 including broadcasting Bin Laden’s story by CNN. I called that giving media support to terrorists. Most of us remember that day, moment by moment.

On this painful and memorable day, I rather post poetry that was created to address the emotions and sorrow and dedicated to those who lost their lives on 9/11. One of the best sites I could find is at http://www.september11victims.com/september11victims/poems.htm

LET PEACE LEAD THE WAY

Let peace lead the way,
When grief is too much to bear,
When arms no more live to enfold us.

Let peace lead the way,
when anger wants to break out,
when aggressors try to control and break us.

Let peace lead the way,
when our children cry and are left orphaned,
when husbands or wives' parted to early in life.

Let peace lead the way,
when heroes leave us their legacy of courage,
and stories to remember through the ages.

Let peace lead the way,
as the American and world flags and hearts salute very brave cities,
as we pay respect to over 3,000 lives.

Let peace lead the way,
when we can't accept
or forgive.

Let peace lead the way,
when we forget faith and prayer
and tears flow unashamedly from sea to shining sea.

Let peace lead the way,
for all humanity's sake, keeping nation's together.
To empower, educate, and keeps freedoms name safe,
Let peace lead the way.

Tatiana A. Konstanian
San Francisco, CA
9/11/2002

For the Love of Poetry

2006-09-09T11:11:00.000+02:00

I want to thank family and friends for their communication with me while I was in Baghdad. In future posts more will be written on the situation there, which has whirlpooled into a swirling mass of fear and uncompleted programs. Reading other Iraqi blogs and talking with people from all over Baghdad, the city must realize security and continue rebuilding the infrastructure (electric, water, basics) before other programs should be implemented.

Now on to my love of poetry, I want to thank Isaiah Knows Nothing for his emails and support while I was hanging out with the rockets. His poem, ...Now, and Now, and Now... reminds me of advice given by several different people to guide me in Iraq and throughout life. Be a child of the moment. Time is only now, for the past is now and the future is now and the real time as we humans can possibly understand is this moment which takes practice and work to pull memories or dreams and apply them to this moment.

I would also like to introduce Sufi Poetry and the works of David and Sabrineh Fideler. I have known David for a few years now and he is the only person I trust with my professional articles and paper edits. But David and his wife Sabrineh have a much greater calling, which is their work translating beautiful Persian poetry to English.

Their newest book, Love’s Alchemy: Poems from the Sufi Tradition promises to be a banquet of enlightenment through poetry. For more information concerning the book and audio of beautifully recited poetry, visit http://www.sufipoetry.com/

ALPER's Comment on Kurdish Books

2006-09-08T15:24:00.000+02:00

ALPER commented on my post "Turkey vs. Sweden on the Kurdish Issue" while I had limited electric and internet and so I would like to address their post at this time.

"First of all I believe that our main identity is "HUMAN" not Turkish, Kurdish or English. "I don't believe in the things which makes people apart. But there are some facts that we can not ignore. People like you always ignore some main facts in this issue. Like you do in this blog. It is very easy to agitate such issues with using children. Then please respond, what will happen to the Turkish children of whom daddy is killed by Kurdish Terrorists ??? Ah sorry I am sure you call them Kurdish fighters !!!!!!Please explain."

I do not support terrorism of any kind ethnic, religious, political, or national terrorism, nor does Pearls of Iraq, quite the opposite. Having studied terrorism professionally the past 4 years, it is evident the terrorist framework for conflict strategy does not and will not work to change political issues including human rights. Obviously, an article posted about the Kurdish children’s books has ignited a sensitive hotspot with Alper, rerouting the topic of children books to terrorism. No human should be a victim of terrorism, children or adults, Turkish or Kurdish, or British tourists most recently.

The comment at least recognizes another ethnic group of at least 15 million Kurds living in Turkey but does Alpher recognize that not all Kurds are terrorists? Just like not all Scotsmen wear kilts and not all that wear kilts wear them with no underwear? Or is it a generalization of an ethnic group? Can people control the actions of all individuals or small groups? Historically and currently, the answer is no. Can the Kurdish people denounce such acts in spite of continued hardship, yes.

Shortly after Alpher sent the comment, the blasts occurred in Turkey. The Kurdistan Liberation Hawks (TAK) claimed responsibility for the bombings. Some say they are linked to the PKK; the PKK has publicly denounced these horrendous acts. Instead, my perspective and it is my opinion that the PKK and the Kurdish people of Turkey will continue to seek non violent, democratic options to the situation or at worse, practice military action (which is different from terrorist actions). This does not mean that separatist individuals and groups will behave until they realize terrorism is the lowest of the low for resolving conflict and in fact, shoves them and their cause down below the basic human level and only closes doors for their concerns.

Finally, terrorist acts limit freedom for all people. What is terrorism? A major issue surrounding terrorism is the definition. As of March 2005, there isn’t a global consensus defining the method or act of terrorism. Both the US and the UN have different views and definitions. The US definition[i] places terrorism in a political standing whereas the UN has four different “proposed” definitions and yet no conclusion concerning these definitions. [ii] Obviously the most recent bombings in Turkey were terrorist acts.

Terrorism is a conflict method or strategy with fear as the primary element. Fear is an emotion used in an attempt to force change in the target. Victims can be actual people or groups or the use of symbolic fear (a building or historic structure). The targets can received a direct or indirect affect of psychological fear that penetrates society system-wide as a result of violence or the possibility of violence.

I like the definition proposed by D.J. Hanle, “Terror is an intense paralyzing fear, or the dread of it. Terrorism is a deliberate attempt to create terror through a symbolic act involving the use or threat of abnormal lethal force for the purpose of influencing a target group or individual.”

Thus even the threat of violence is a form of terrorism.

It is imperative to distinguish between the words insurgency or freedom fighters and terrorism. Insurgency simply means a political movement and utilizes different methods to confront or change the policy of the government or organizations. The intentions of the groups and individuals provide clarity. Terrorism is a method or strategy to force the change which is optional and the transformative key between insurgent and terrorist.

The Department of Defense has an official definition of insurgency, “"An organized movement aimed at the overthrow of a constituted government through the use of subversion and armed conflict." As seen across the world, there can be a nonviolent insurgency or freedom "fighters," military or guerilla warfare or there can be a transformation from military action of fighters into terrorists, as we see in South and Central America.

The media has concentrated on the Middle East but they are not the only ones using fear and violent acts in the form of terrorism to pursue change. Southern and Central Americas are increasing with terrorists acts and this is spreading. The media likens these groups to “gangs,” like the El Salvadoran-based MS-13, of which there are over 50,000 in the US. The fact is these gangs are becoming more aggressive and some are approaching the definition of terrorists groups by their actions,[iii] including inciting fears in shopping malls through shootings and in neighborhoods. It is reported that they have spread to over 5 countries including Europe. Recently, a pregnant woman was a victim of one of these terrorist “gangs” and so her unborn child was directly affected.

What is the solution to terrorists? Everyone recognizes the terrorist conflict strategy is useless and alienates the issue even more, thus shutting out resolution. I would like to see more brainstorming on solutions rather than constantly pointing fingers and wringing of hands. Even as a pacifist, the situation has to be dealt with firmly and with the help of the military. Conversely, to generalize a whole ethnic population as terrorists over the topic of the destruction of books is not the ideal approach. It is not what we think but how we think…including initiating the change of ideas of the terrorist groups to realize violence is not an answer but a festering infected wound. Therefore, the blog is open to suggested solutions.

Finally, again it would be in Turkey’s best interests to approach the Turkish Kurds as allies against a much greater threat…Islamic extremists are residing in Turkey, using the routes to go to Iraq and Syria and waiting for the opportunity to attack the beautiful people of Turkey.

[i] Director of Central Intelligence. Terrorism FAQs. Central Intelligence Agency. Access date: March 29, 2005. http://www.cia.gov/terrorism/faqs.html

[ii] United Nations. Office on Drugs and Crime. Definitions of Terrorism. Saturday, April 2, 2005. Access date: April 2, 2005. http://www.unodc.org/unodc/terrorism_definitions.html

[iii] Congressional Testimony. Statement of Chris Swecker Assistant Director, Criminal Investigative Division
Federal Bureau of Investigation Before the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere House International Relations Committee. April 20, 2005. Online at http://www.fbi.gov/congress/congress05/swecker042005.htm

Turkey vs. Sweden on the Kurdish Issue

2006-08-26T10:44:00.000+02:00

Turkey refuses to allow Kurdish stories into Northern Kurdistan

8/25/2006 KurdishMedia.com - By Halwest Rashid

A Swedish source stated that 1,000 books have been confiscated in by Turkish authorities in Istanbul airport. The books are famous children stories that are translated into Kurdish from Swedish and they are to be given to libraries in Northern Kurdistan (now within Turkey) in order to help Kurdish children to learn their native language and to enjoy. The books are stopped in the international airport of Istanbul by the Turkish authorities and they refuse to allow this gift from Sweden to Kurds of Northern Kurdistan.

Furthermore, the Turkish authorities planned to destroy the books in the coming days. The Swedish ambassador in Ankara has undertaken steps to preserve the books, but the Turkish government is certainly of its matter. This is again a proof of the fact that Turkey undertakes everything to stop the Kurdish language to be spoken and used in Northern Kurdistan and Turkey. The Turkish constitution is crystal clear about the usage of Kurdish language: it cannot be used.

[Another reason not to travel through Turkey]

Safe Journey

2006-08-25T08:04:00.000+02:00

In reply to Isaiah's question, how feasible would it be to travel to Iraq Kurdistan, besides electric and access to internet blocking me, it gave me a time to reflect within the current time and space.

In fact, I was at Kurdistan Save the Children Headquarters at the time Isaiah was posting his comment, processing the sponsorship of a little girl. Having two sons, this brings me much joy. In response, the organization welcomes visitors, especially sponsors. Additionally, they always welcome volunteers for the schools and centers.

How feasible is it? With contacts on the ground here, it is good, but an individual must really, really want to come here as it is a long and expensive journey. The best way is to fly to Jordan and then take a plane to Erbil or Sulimaniya with Royal Jordanian Airlines. There are also flights from Sweden, Germany, Denmark, but all are expensive.

It is important to have contacts and companions here on the ground, for advice and direction. The region is opening for tourism, and perhaps a small group to visit can be arranged in the springtime. The Kurdish people welcome you.

In a fairly sleepless night, outside influences are possible beyond our control. I am sure no one expected Lebanon to be as it is today. So this region, like others is very fragile dependent on a matrix of interacting players of the conflict in Iraq. For now, Kurdistan is a warm hearth.

Time, electricity and internet shorten my posts for now.

Resting and Research

2006-08-22T08:12:00.000+02:00

Since I got home to Kurdistan, it has been a time of rest, friends, family and beginning my research, which is the use of positive religious values and attributes in tribal mediation. Also helping out researching agri-business, which is so interesting, and carries on from last year.

This is Kurdistan and Saddam is on trial now for his genocide of the Kurdish people. CNN broadcast a small token presentation on the Kurdish people and the Anfal but it really was not enough, considering. Since I have limited TV access, I hope there are more documentaries and shows on the Kurdish people at this time, since there is an abundance here and they just need translation.

The gas situation is very severe here, the worse I have seen it, with the lines going around the city's beltway and cars sitting for days waiting. Electric is equally as scarce and had the wonderful opportunity to finish dinner in the dark at home, which brings out the taste and touch sensory rather than the visual...

Still, this is heaven on earth, and happy to be home.

Story of an Iraqi Pearl

2006-08-17T19:45:00.000+02:00

I am officially off assignment and have a lot to discuss, but for today, I want to share a story from a beautiful pearl of Iraq. I had the wonderful opportunity to be a guest speaker in a class and the topic that day was active listening, a key element of dialogue. In speaking, I did not wish to talk, but wanted to hear from this wonderful mixed group of Iraqis. We did have a dialogue and too soon the time and class ended. I asked them to share their stories through this blog. My dear Iraqi sister wrote me, sharing her story of life in Baghdad. I edited only a few things, for her protection…

One of these stories which was happened to me last Saturday, that day I decided to go to the (Karadaha) near by fourteen July bridge, I needed to buy some staples like scarves and make ups. To reach Karadaha which is located at south Baghdad while my home located in north of Baghdad and due to sever shortages in fuel, that makes me think before hiring a taxi to go there it will cost me ($ 3.5) it means too expensive for me.

So I decided to ride a mini bus at bus station, imagine what are people talking inside the mini bus…the criticism about the security situation, meanwhile the driver told the passengers that he increased his prices for each person due to the fuel shortages and this made many people show their resentment. The road as usually was crowded and we stuck at street more than one an hour, it is like u wasting your time and sit in the car without any air conditioning machine which is like the hell. In these moments I saw many of police and army cars… they wanted to pass quickly and I thought it was a real dangerous moment because at any time the terrorists might exposed us and might shot us and shot the police cars.

I left my home at (9:30) AM. I reached at (11:00) AM. I found almost all of the moles (small stores) were closed and only a few were opened, when I chatted with one of the mole owner, he told me everybody here have gotten a threaten letters if they continued opening their moles. Their life will be exposed to a real danger and might abdicate, so they chose to close their moles and some of them left Iraq. The sale owner said that Al Maliki government is lying and improved their failure every day in providing security to the people and do nothing… only keep stealing the worth of the country and to protect their benefits and the government is not able to provide safety but just keep making propaganda and I said that I agree with him.

I looked in my watch and found the time was late and the man told me to return home early it is not good for me as a girl shopping alone so when I returned home it was (2:00) PM. passing through the same I have to struggle when I decide to do any thing. I have to think what is the worse issue that I’ll face prior to doing something, like wearing any tee shirt that specify the body features this will be a hard issue and A PROBLEM for me especially when I walk in the street alone. Wearing tee shirt, like I have to tell you my district is a religious province and many militias are controlling they have closed mentality. I have to leave now, time is too late for me.

[Note: The Karadaha used to be a wonderful upscale shopping district and relatively safe. The past month or so, it has fallen victim to many bombings of innocent people, the closing of a multitude of businesses and organizations and most recently an increase of kidnappings…]

Light

2006-07-28T13:24:00.000+02:00

The Light of God's Word

O'er all the moral world, where, otherwise,
No light would come, or through its midnight gloom
No cheering ray appear, to dissipate
The darkness, God has set a guiding star--
A luminary bright--whose rays divine
Should pierce the night--the deep'ning shades dispel,
Which o'er the earth in sullen silence brood.
Nay, more, a ray of God's own brightness, sent
Direct to man from off His radiant throne;
That those who gladly should the light receive,
And follow where it led, should here enjoy
A glorious foretaste of the bliss of Heaven.

It is God's Holy Word, immutable,
Through life's bewildering maze alone can guide
The wandering traveller to eternal rest.
Without it, man were lost--lost in the deep,
Dark labyrinth of dread uncertainty--
Where doubts distract, and fearful thoughts arise--
With nought his steps to lead, save the dim lamp
Of human reason, whose misguiding flame
Would serve to make the gloom still more profound,
The darkness deeper, and more keenly felt.
But 'twas not God's design to leave man thus,
In error's devious paths, to grope his way;
So, through His Sacred Word,
His will revealed,
And pointed out the narrow path, that bright
And brighter shines, e'en to the perfect day.

Poem by Uriah Smith

On Assignment

2006-06-20T13:56:00.000+02:00

This is my last post for awhile as mentioned in a previous post; I will be on assignment for a few months and can not contribute. There are team members getting ready to post, in between their busy schedules, starting hopefully in July.

While searching for a conference being held in the fall, I found a great website on interfaith/inter-religious dialogue which I would like to share with you. There is a page of excellent resources/papers.

Institute of Interfaith Dialog (IID)
http://www.interfaithdialog.org/r_articles.php

Hope everyone has a great summer.

One day, Rabia was seen running, carrying fire in one hand and water in the other. They asked her the meaning of her action and where she was going. She replied, I am going to light a fire in Paradise and pour water on Hell, so that both veils (hindrances to the true vision of God) completely disappear."
by Rabi'a Al-'Adawiyya

Pearls of Iraq: Urgent Call for Team Members

2006-06-09T22:21:00.000+02:00

Pearls of Iraq needs help for a few months. It is bittersweet. I am being called away on a special assignment, utilizing my experience, and skills, but it means giving up the blog while I am away. There is no choice or option on this matter.

My family will post bi-weekly on my status, a simple note that I am good, inshallah. What Pearls of Iraq needs are team members to carry on the peacebuilding and non-political (or very moderate political) support of the blog and the Kurdish and Iraqi people, sharing of positive narratives and stories, resources, etc.

Pearls of Iraq is open to all religions yet I hope that someone can also continue to post on Islamic peacebuilding and dialogue. I open the blog to diversified religions, because the readers of this blog and our world are diverse. While I am gone, it is my wish that people will carry the light of peaceful co-existence by working towards interreligious dialogue and tolerance in this blog. Please email me, within a week if you are interested, my email is on the profile.

I have added a link for peacebuilding and they have excellent resources on peacebuilding including organizations in Iraq. The Peacemakers Trust is a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to research and education on conflict transformation and peacebuilding. They have requested that if people have additional resources, especially Iraq including organizations and articles to email them and they will update their lists. This is an excellent source of information and the website is: http://www.peacemakers.ca/

That is all for today. This is a strange time and place for me, but life is constantly changing and moving, as we have seen even in the most recent news. This blog has been an extension of myself, but even more importantly, the Iraq people, as many friends and family have pointed out. Now I hope this extension can spread outward with team members. Inshallah, God Willing.

Miriam

Happy Kurdish Videos

2006-06-08T02:55:00.000+02:00

I hope that I am not the only one that gets detoured on the internet. A few weeks ago, I got detoured big time thanks to trying to figure out how to upload audio and video to the blog (which I still have not found the answer). In the meantime, I found some great videos that are great “pick-me-ups”!

Madagascar in Kurdish (my favorite, check out the Zebra midway!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQfVRfeJkR8&search=kurdish%20

Kurdish Clip (Shan-ba-Shan, Shoulder to Shoulder dancing with the shoulder movement. Have my Kurdish men’s clothes made and ready!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJMft9GVcgA&search=kurdish%20

Kurdish Shrek (Looks like a karr singing)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FnF5FBV-9k&search=Kurdish

And finally, In the Name of Love. This brave woman sang through this video and it is my second favorite video, simply because she is just a regular person I can relate to and she had some funny challenges, including a "beep beep"! Nice song, I did everything in the Name of Love...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKbmGYThZO4&search=kurdi

Miriam

Pearls of Iraq: Islamic Peace Building - Part Seven

2006-06-06T23:46:00.000+02:00

This post is not the last of Islamic peacebuilding and dialogue but the last on my proposed school. In the future, there will be excellent contributors, inshallah, who will share their experiences and knowledge concerning Islamic peacebuilding and dialogue on the blog.

Today, I thought it would be appropriate to post the story below, as the past few days/events in Iraq do not reflect the religion, point blank. We have lost many people, including students, in the name of religion, but these events are actually politically motivated. Politics are only a few trees in the forest and it seems those who harm others are pressing their noses against the wrong trees.

Finally, I had a few people requesting my pearl picture to come back, so instead of one pearl, I have found many precious pearls of Iraq and hope this new picture reflects these dear souls.
I will now refer to a story from M. R. Bawa Muhaiyaddeen’s book, Islam and World Peace.*

A Direct Revelation to 'Ali

One day when 'Ali was in battle, his opponent's sword broke and the man fell. 'Ali stood above him, and holding his sword to the man's chest, he said, "If you had a sword in your hand, I would continue this fight, but since your sword is broken, I cannot strike you."

"If I had a sword at this moment, I would cut off your arms and legs," the man shouted back.

"All right then," 'Ali replied, and he handed the man his sword. "What are you doing?" the man asked, bewildered. "I am your enemy, am I not?"

'Ali looked him in the eye and said, "You swore that if you had a sword in your hand you would kill me. Now you have my sword, so go ahead and strike me." But the man could not. "That was your ignorance and arrogance speaking," 'Ali explained. "In the realm of Allah, there is no fight or enmity between you and me. We are brethren. The real war is between the truth and your lack of wisdom. It is between truth and falsehood. You and I are just watching that battle. You are my brother.

If I were to harm you at this point, I would have to answer for it on the Day of Questioning. Allah would ask me about it."

"Is this the way of Islam?" the man asked.

"Yes," 'Ali replied. "These are the words of Allah, the All-Powerful, Unique One."

Immediately the man bowed down at 'Ali's feet and begged, "Teach me the kalimah."
And `Ali taught him, "There is no god but God. Nothing exists other than You, O God."

*Muhaiyaddeen, M.R. Bawa. Islam & World Peace: Explanations of a Sufi. Philadelphia: The Fellowship Press, 1999.

Iraq: When it is Time to go Home

2006-06-04T12:31:00.000+02:00

It is rare to get a conflicting comment but it does happen and I welcome different perspectives. The person wrote the following about the ribbon campaign, which I might add, is not a group or organization, but symbolizes in the virtual world support of the Iraqis and the troops working on reconstruction.

Now I see...you are after attention! You would rather creat your own and be self-promoting for fame rather than merge yourself with an established group-----and the put down to that other group, hehhe, poor taste at best.No, they would not give up their saleries just as I wouldn't. I've been here for 2 years and all I've seen are savages who cheer rebuilding when they're getting something for free. But when we didnt award a building contract to a group because they had a 100% rate of corruption and non-completion----they raised a massive group to burn coalition assets.savages.of course no one will turn over our saleries---we flat out dont care about a bunch of savages. I hope we do pull out and let this place fall into crap. If they're incapable of holding themselves up right now, they never will be.

There is no fame here, never has been. No organization but rather merge, support and work with other organizations like: Kurdistan Save the Children, the Iraqi Foundation, Nonviolence International, etc, (see growing list to the left). There was no put down to the other group, as I am a pacifist, activist for peace, a professional in conflict resolution and peacebuilding with a dose of reality and consideration for reconstruction/development. We know without support from the international community, that any pullouts now will most likely send the country into further mass chaos which will have rippling effects globally. Additionally, there are too many people in Iraq I love very much, especially the children to allow that to happen.

From the writing, it seems this person has only been in Iraq 2 years, not a native, not a committed individual to the Iraqi people, but one who resorts to name calling, the basic and lowest level of emotion outburst. This is a perfect example of the other side of the coin. People are there who do not wish to be there and do not have cultural or conflict training. It was always advised for anyone going into a region, military or civilian to have the very basic cultural and conflict negotiation training and counseling. The people I talked to over the years did not, they were just sent.

Still I have met those who do not give up hope, who work tirelessly and put one foot in front of another, coalition and Iraqis working together with fantastic results. Many foreigners I have met there, signed up as volunteers, and love the Iraqi people, love doing their work and making a contribution, as team players with great results. They have the highest standard of ethics and transparency. A few bad apples do not mean the whole bushel is spoiled in any given situation.

But to some people who are working in Iraq, it is just a place on the map, it is just another assignment, and a salary which is probably paid for directly or indirectly by taxes on people’s income from some country in the world. This person may have taxes taken out, so he/she are turning over a part of their salary in fact and actually is making money off the conflict. Some of us have given our salaries…it is our choice.

All I can say, if the fire is too hot, ask for discharge from the assignment based on health leave. The indicator on this advice is the calling people “savages” numerous times… It would be the best decision for the Iraqi people and the coalition for the individual to bow out of Iraq and leave. We need dedicated and stable minded individuals in Iraq, who are positive team players, the wheat versus weed.

Meanwhile! The Purple and Yellow Ribbon Campaign can be found at:
http://iraqpurpleribboncampaign.blogspot.com/

Official Start of the Purple and Yellow Ribbon Campaign

2006-05-31T16:47:00.000+02:00

Today starts the official campaign of the Iraq Purple and Yellow Ribbon Campaign. The Ribbons symbolize support for the Iraqi people to be tied with a yellow ribbon for the troops: American, international and the Iraqi military who are making a positive difference. The purple finger of freedom combined with the yellow is a great way to show the Iraqi people our support.

Tie it to your blog the tree in front your home workspace or your car. Show that you care. Thanks to Isaiah from the blog “isaiah knows nothing” http://isaiahknows.blogspot.com/ and Trev Diesel from the blog "the sound of diesel musing" http://trevdiesel.blogspot.com/ for their support and design of the Purple and Yellow ribbon campaign! In the background is a picture I took in Iraq of a man and his mungas on a mountain road (munga is Sorani, Kurdish for cow), thanks Isaiah and Trev for the custom design, it is beautiful!

The push for purple for the Iraqis, representing freedom is not new. There have been other campaigns in short spurts supporting the movement. We need continuous long term support and outreach. Therefore, I support the Purple and Yellow Ribbon campaign. I call on bloggers, media and people across the globe to use these colors to show support to Iraq and to use virtual “Purple and Yellow Ribbon” jpeg as a symbol on the internet and other places.

I have actual 5’ yellow and purple ribbons to put together today, inshallah (Martha Stewart, I am not!) and will take picture upon completion, inshallah.

Here are some other links on the Purple Symbol of Freedom including my past posts:

Iraqi Purple Pearl Ribbon Movement
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2006/05/iraqi-purple-pearl-ribbon-movement.html

Baghdad's Economy and the Purple Zone
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2006/05/baghdads-economy-and-purple-zone.html

Raise A Purple Finger For Freedom
http://www.purplefingerforfreedom.org/index.html

Give Terrorism the Finger
http://www.thepurplefinger.org/

United for Peace has a white Ribbon Campaign which is fine, white for peace but it does not truly get to the essence of the Iraqi people and neglects the issue of terrorism and the goal of freedom. We do not wish war, I am a pacifist and a peace builder in Iraq, but the bombs and attacks the past two years have been directed at the Iraqi people, not as much at the military; its is a cowardly conflict. In addition, the call for pulling out of Iraq right now would cause additional chaos and does not address the reconstruction effort being conducted right now. Who will take over? Are the white ribbon supporters willing to physically go into Iraq with me and others and help rebuild Iraq once the troops leave? Are they willing to turn over their salaries and wages, sweat and physical bodies to rebuild the electric, schools and hospitals? So they can add a white ribbon to the purple and yellow.

In addition, I started a 2nd blog (yikes), Iraq Purple and Yellow Ribbon Campaign and looking for team members to contribute as well as photos of Purple and Yellow Ribbons.
http://iraqpurpleribboncampaign.blogspot.com/

Pearls of Iraq: Part Six - Islamic Peace Building and Dialogue Resources

2006-05-30T18:14:00.000+02:00

This is a continuing series on Islamic Educational Peacebuilding Initiatives. We continue with the prospect of developing a school focused on Islamic peacebuilding, dialogue and justice, including nonviolence. It is my wish to start this school in Iraq, no matter how small...

Under my fellowship with Salam Institute, one of my assignments was to develop a resource list for Islam and Dialogue. The living list is below and can also be found on Salam Institute for Peace and Justice Resource page under Islam and Dialogue: http://www.salaminstitute.org/resources.htm I just rechecked the links, all up to date, except, ISESCO seems to be updating their site, which has alot of wonderful publications.

I would also like to point out the new Muslim Peacebuilding Network located on the same page. Salam Institute for Peace and Justice is a nonprofit organization with a concentration on both Western and Islamic frameworks for conflict reconciliation, mediation and peacebuilding. Most recently they held a conference in Washington, DC and are involved in both “train the trainer” activities around the world for conflict reconciliation/resolution, interreligious/intra-faith dialogue and Imam Leadership and conflict resolution training. This is in addition to the growing resources and publications. Salam Institute’s Executive Director is Dr. Mohammed Abu-Nimer, and my mentor, and one of the foremost world experts on dialogue facilitation and Islamic non violence, peacebuilding and development. Thanks Dr. Abu-Nimer for all your support and patience with my work in Iraq.

Islam and Dialogue Resource (Salam Institute for Peace and Justice)
http://www.salaminstitute.org/Resources/islam.htm

This is a selected resource listing and is not intended to be comprehensive. We welcome outside suggestions.

Books

Abu-Nimer, Mohammed. 1999. Dialogue, Conflict Resolution, and Change: Arab-Jewish Encounters in Israel . New York : State University of New York Press.

al ‘Alwani, Taha Jabir. 1401AH-1981 AC. The Ethics of Disagreement in Islam . Virginia : The International Institute of Islamic Thought. Also available on line at http://www.usc.edu/dept/MSA/humanrelations/alalwani_disagreement/

al-Ghazali, Muhammad, trans., August 2004. A. H. Muslim Character : An American-English Translation of Muhammad al-Ghazali's Khuluq al-Muslim . Chicago : Library of Islam, Kazi Publications.

al Hasani, Sayyed Abdul Hayy. 2003. Tahdhib al Akhlaq: A Hadith Guide for Personal and Social Conduct. Leicester , UK : Islamic Academy.

al-Jawziyyah, Ibn Qayyim. Patience and Gratitude. London : Ta-Ha Publishers Ltd.

Al-Jirari, Abbas. 1420H / 2000. Dialogue from Islamic Point of View. Rabat : ISESCO, Publications of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Also available on line at http://www.isesco.org.ma/pub/Eng/Dialogue/dialogue.htm

Al-Kasnazani al-Husseini, Shaikh Muhammad. trans. 1989. Shaikh ‘Abd al-Qadir al-Gaylani. “Jila' al-Khatir," Baghdad : Ishtar Press. Also available on line at http://www.quranicstudies.com/viewbook24.html

Al-Kaysi, Marwan Ibrahim. 1989. Morals and Manners in Islam. Leicester , UK : Islamic Foundation.

al-Jazairi, Abu Bakr and Shaykh Abu Bakr. 1998. Islamic Etiquette. Riyadh: Darussalam Publishers.

Altwaijri, Abdulaziz Othman. 1418H / 1997. Future Prospects of Muslim-Western Dialogue. Rabat , Morocco : ISESCO, Publications of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Also available on line at http://www.isesco.org.ma/pub/Eng/future/future.htm

Esack, Farid. 1997, Reprinted 1998. Qur'an Liberation & Pluralism: An Islamic Perspective of Interreligious Solidarity Against Oppression. Oxford : Oneworld.

Esposito, John L. and Zafar Ishaq Ansari, Eds. 2001. Muslims and the West: Encounter and Dialogue. Islamabad : Islamic Research Institute.

Ghudda, Shaykh Abdul Fattah Abu. 2001. Islamic Manners. Swansea , UK : Awakening Publications.

Fischer, Michael M. J and Mehdi Abedi. 1990. Debating Muslims: Cultural Dialogues in Postmodernity and Tradition. Madison : University of Wisconsin Press.

Laming, Shahibuddin. 2000. Knowledge in Human Society (Selected Themes of Al-Qur'an). Kuala Lumpur : A.S. Noordeen.

Martin, Richard C. Islam, a Cutural Perspective. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, 1982

Matthews, Daud R. 1425H/2004. Presenting Islam in the West: Introduction. Leicester , UK : Islamic Academy.

Quasem, Abul M., Al-Ghazali's ethics. 1974 – 1975, A3, Ph.D., University of Edinburgh , 25-103. Edited and published as: The Ethics of al-Ghazali: a Composite Ethics in Islam. Malaysia.(1975) with an introduction by W. M. Watt, reprinted by Caravan books, New York 1978. Also available on line at http://www.ghazali.org/books/abulqasem.pdf

Engineer, Asghar Ali. 2002. “Da‘wah or Dialogue,” Islam and Modern Age. Institute of Islamic Studies and Centre for Study of Society and Secularism. Also available on line at http://ecumene.org/IIS/csss80.htm

Safi, Louay M. 2001. Editorial for “ Overcoming the Cultural Divide,” American Journal of Islamic Social Sciences. Herndon: Volume 18, Fall. Number 4. Also available on line at http://www.amss.net/AJISS/PastIssues/editorial19-1.htm

Siddiqi, Muzammil 2001. “An Islamic Approach to Pluralism,” Solomon-Tenenbaum and Joseph Cardinal Bernardin Lectureship. University of South Carolina in Columbia . Also available on line at http://www.pakistanlink.com/religion/2001/1214.html

Siddiqi, Muzammil. 2001. “How an Islamic Leader Views Dialogue,” Origins: CNS Documentary Service, 30, 41. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs. Also available on line at http://www.usccb.org/seia/siddiqi.shtml

Biographies and Indexes

Index Islamicus REF/INDEX D 199.33 .L32

O'Donnell, Patrick S. 2003. Islamic Studies: A Bibliography (Books in English) PDF file
http://www.columbia.edu/cu/lweb/img/assets/5495/Islamic_Studies_bibliog.pdf

Dialogue Organizations

Global Dialogue Institute. GDI Anthology, Envisioning a Global Ethic. http://astro.temple.edu/~dialogue/index.html

ISESCO, The Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Rabat , Morocco. http://www.isesco.org.ma/

Internet Resources:

Books

al ‘Alwani, Taha Jabir. 1401AH-1981 AC. The Ethics of Disagreement in Islam . Virginia : The International Institute of Islamic Thought. http://www.usc.edu/dept/MSA/humanrelations/alalwani_disagreement/

Al-Jirari, Abbas. 1420H / 2000. Dialogue from Islamic Point of View. Rabat : ISESCO, Publications of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. http://www.isesco.org.ma/pub/Eng/Dialogue/dialogue.htm

Al-Kasnazani al-Husseini, Shaikh Muhammad. trans. 1989. Shaikh ‘Abd al-Qadir al-Gaylani. “Jila' al-Khatir," Baghdad : Ishtar Press http://www.quranicstudies.com/viewbook24.html

Altwaijri, Abdulaziz Othman. 1418H / 1997 . Future Prospects of Muslim-Western Dialogue. Rabat : ISESCO, Publications of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. http://www.isesco.org.ma/pub/Eng/future/future.htm

A Shi'ite Encyclopedia. Version 2.0 October 1995, Revised January 2001. http://al-islam.org/encyclopedia/

Al-Bosnawi, Isa. "Islam & The Concept of Friendship," islaam.com. http://islaam.com/Article.aspx?id=131

Al-Qaradawi, Yusuf. 1425H/2005. “Methodology of religious discourse as outlined by the Holy Koran, Rabat ,” Islam Today , ISESCO, Publications of the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.. Also available on line at http://www.isesco.org.ma/pub/Eng/IST22/Menu.htm

The American Islamic Congress. "A New Guide to Muslim Interfaith Dialogue." http://www.aicongress.org/policy/interfaith_guide.pdf

Al-Samak, Muhammad Nimr. 2005. The Culture ‘Of Knowing One Another' In Islam. World Council of the Islamic Call.
http://taarafu.islamonline.net/English/Taarafo_Conference/2003/article06.shtml

Co-Chairmen's Report. 1425 H/2004. "…to improve constructive dialogue and co-operation between Islamic organizations and communities from different regions." (Paper presented at the International Conference of Islamic Scholars Jakarta, 23-25 February, 2004). Embassy of Indonesia . Bangkok . Thailand. http://www.kbrimanila.org.ph/news/icis_chairmen_rprt.html

Engineer, Asghar Ali. 2002. “Da‘wah or Dialogue,” Islam and Modern Age. Institute of Islamic Studies and Centre for Study of Society and Secularism. http://ecumene.org/IIS/csss80.htm

Fadlallah, Sayyed Muhammed Hussein. "The Dialogue with the other: No taboos in dialogue,"Islamicinsights. Bayynat. http://english.bayynat.org.lb/se_002/islamicinsights/taboos.htm

Ghudda, Shaykh Abdul Fattah Abu. 2001. "Islamic Manners: The Art of Listening," UK : Awakening Publications. http://islaam.com/Article.aspx?id=592

Ghudda, Shaykh Abdul Fattah Abu. 2001. "Islamic Manners: Discussions and Debates," UK : Awakening Publications. http://islaam.com/Article.aspx?id=595

Inayatullah, Sohail. 1996. “Alternative Futures for the Islamic Ummah,” Metafuture.org Articles . Revised. (paper presented at Islamic Development Conference Meeting on the Islamic Ummah. March 1996). http://www.metafuture.org/Articles/AltFuturesUmmah.htm#_edn1

Judge, Anthony. 1998. "Typology of 12 complementary dialogue modes essential to sustainable dialogue." Laetus in Praesens. http://www.laetusinpraesens.org/docs/typdial.php

Mujahid, Abdul Malik. Shura In The Family: Why We Need It, How To Do It. Islam, the Modern Religion. Bridgeview , IL .
SoundVision.com. http://www.themodernreligion.com/family/shura.html

Noor, Farish A. 2004. “Interview: The Adab of Dissent and Dialogue,” The American Muslim . http://theamericanmuslim.org/tam.php/features/articles/
interview_with_khalid_masud_the_adab_of_dissent_and_dialogue/

Quasem, Abul M., Al-Ghazali's ethics. 1974 – 1975, A3, Ph.D., University of Edinburgh , 25-103. Edited and published as: The ethics of al-Ghazali: a composite ethics in Islam. Malaysia.(1975) with an introduction by W. M. Watt, reprinted by Caravan books, New York 1978. (PDF Working Paper). http://www.ghazali.org/books/abulqasem.pdf

Ramos, Danielle. The Veiled Ummah Of Islam Find Their Voices On The Internet, Final Thesis. New York . New York University . http://www.nyu.edu/classes/keefer/joe/ramos1.html

Royer, Ismail. 2002. “Is a Clash of Civilizations Unavoidable? A Western View.” Interview with Graham Fuller. http://www.atrueword.com/index.php/article/view/21

Siddiqi, Muzammil 2001. “An Islamic Approach to Pluralism,” Solomon-Tenenbaum and Joseph Cardinal Bernardin Lectureship. University of South Carolina in Columbia . http://www.pakistanlink.com/religion/2001/1214.html

Biographies, Indexes, Mega Sites

Beyond Intractability: A Free Knowledge Base on More Constructive Approaches to Destructive Conflict . Dialogue Search. http://www.beyondintractability.org

The Global Dialogue Institute. http://global-dialogue.com/

Godlas, Alan. "Islam, Islamic Studies, Arabic, and Religion". Resources for Studying Islam and the Diverse Perspectives of Muslims. http://www.uga.edu/islam/

Godlas, Alan. Sufism -- Sufis -- Sufi Orders. Sufism's Many Paths. http://www.arches.uga.edu/~godlas/Sufism.html

Judge, Anthony. 1998. "Typology of 12 complementary dialogue modes essential to sustainable dialogue." Laetus in Praesens. http://www.laetusinpraesens.org/ (Excellent Dialogue and Communication Paper databank)

National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation. Resources for Understanding. http://www.thataway.org/resources/index.html

To be continued (Blogger thinks the list is too long, ommm)

Kurdistan Save the Children

2006-05-29T13:38:00.000+02:00

Many people have written about how they can help the children in Iraq. I began vetting, or scoping out NGO’s (Non Government Organizations) who have a firm foundation and strong programs. In addition, I have met with “up and coming” NGO’s who are developing strong programs but are still getting established, including training on organizational management and governance (more about these organizations in future posts).

I visited with Kurdistan Save the Children whose work expands Kurdistan and includes Baghdad. They are strong in education, youth centers and cultural centers, which they call Kaziwa which means ‘dawn’ in Kurdish. I visited one center in Sulaimaniya and was so pleased at the hard work four young men have accomplished over the years. They have developed a large youth center with many activities including sports, art, computer training, English classes, music rooms, computer rooms, internet café (the young people pay tiny fee which teaches them respect of equipment) exercise workout room (for both girls and boys, scheduled appropriately), a media and film department, cafeteria, and a huge center hall with a circle upper balcony, perfect for drum circles. He was very open to different activities including the drum circles that I suggested. Music and art in addition to other activities is strongly encouraged.

The manager of this center is a young man with his 3 associates and they have the drive and good hearts to help the children in the city. I was amazed at the dedication these people have given to develop this center for the youth. On the tour, he showed me one room after another, for different activities including dialogue groups and outside is a sports field and a beautiful garden. His wish for the youth is an LCD and laptop for the classes and trainings, movie DVDs for the developing media department, additional books for the library, especially in English (books appropriate for 14-26 year olds, perhaps some American classics), musical instruments and… visitors, who are willing to spend time with the young people, whether through an activity, lecture or discussion. Kurdistan Save the Children has other youth centers including Darbandikhan, Raniya, Koya, Kalar, Khanaqeen, Baziyan and Kirkuk and cultural centers in Halabja, Kirkuk, Qaladiza, and Raniya. In addition, they have Children’s homes in both Baghdad and Kirkuk which help Iraq’s growing number of street children, those affected most by the conflict and in need of the most help.

Finally, as everyone knows, I have sentiments about education for the Iraqi children. Kurdistan Save the Children works with the Education Ministry in supporting education, including renovations of schools. In Sulaimaniya they have an outstanding private school of their own, which is taught in English. During the interview and tour of the school, the Director expressed the need for visiting English speaking teachers for the secondary school year and volunteers for the summer. Teachers would get a modest salary and accommodations. Volunteers, even for a month, would get accommodations (Please click here for more information).

They offered to drive me to more of their Centers, but alas, my time was so short this trip…next time, inshallah. Donations can be earmarked for a special activity, region (like Halabja, the region of Blue Pearl), and sponsorship of a child or into the general fund. Monies and items would go through the UK office first and then on to Headquarters in Sulaimaniya. This organization has an excellent reputation and they have given me their 2005 Annual Report which I can send to those interested in contributing (2004 is below).

In objectivity, some bloggers do not support or promote charitable organizations, I do. When it comes to my Iraqi and Kurdish children, I will open as many doors possible for them, that I can with assistance and support. If you do contact them, please tell Mr. Dana Qadir, that Miriam sent you.

For more information on donations, sponsorships and questions on Kurdistan, Save the Children:
http://www.ksc-kcf.com/Aboutus/Contactus/tabid/58/Default.aspx
http://www.ksc-kcf.com/Howtohelp/Makeadonation/tabid/84/Default.aspx

Teaching Positions and Volunteer Work (this area is quite safe):
http://www.ksc-kcf.com/Aboutus/JobsOpportunities/tabid/57/Default.aspx

2004 Annual Report:
http://www.ksc-kcf.com/Portals/0/Documents/Annual.pdf

Call for Iraq and Kurdistan Link Updates

2006-05-26T23:27:00.002+02:00

After a long grueling trip, I am back in the West, the Daf (Drum) I brought traveled Business class in a safe space, meanwhile I had my legs wrapped around my head in Economy. The important thing, the Daf arrived safely and is now in my son's hands and care.

I will be writing more now that there is regular internet. In the mean time, while I am home for this short break and have dependable internet, there is a call for new Iraq and Kurdistan blogs for my links list. Included in this search are peacebuilding and dialogue blogs using both western and Islamic frameworks.

Some of the topics to be covered over the coming days include a NGO I have found for donations and support for children in Iraq and Kurdistan, the growing PKK Iraq, Turkey and Iran issue in the north, and reflections on my time the past few months in Iraq.

The washing machine is going (giving my hands a break from washing clothes) and for the first time in a few months, I used a blow dryer on my hair. I came home a few days early, and surprised my sons, picking one up at school. It was so good to hug them and even though I had major jet lag (no sleep for a few day), we went to Red Lobster (and for me, a major culinary culture shock) last night. There was laughter, and alot of love at the table. Collapsed into bed last night and finally got some sleep.

More to come.

Photos of KURDISTAN

2006-05-24T07:44:00.000+02:00

Photos of Iraq

2006-05-23T14:05:00.000+02:00

Still Alive!

2006-05-20T06:50:00.000+02:00

No pun intended. Some people have written me concerned, because I have not posted. Right now I am stealing time on a computer, but the owners are waiting. Been way up to the top of the mountains and busy with appointments including NGOS (non-governmental organizations) which work with children and education. Will post more next week with huge photo spread, inshallah.

This past week has been relaxing (relatively speaking) and happy. Much good news to come from Iraq as soon as I get computer and time.

Miriam

Off and Running

2006-05-14T12:21:00.000+02:00

Well, Miriam Khan is off and running again, diving into research on some personal projects concerning peacebuilding. I want to thank Isaiah and everyone for their encouraging words, to keep us going here in Iraq. He knows when I am down, be assured, I am back up, thanks to my readers and my Iraqi people. We just keep going and this next week will be fantastic. Yesterday, I actually went shopping and got a Daf drum and began my research into possible drum circles in Iraq, especially Kurdistan.

I returned to the place I am staying, people were smiling when they see the drum, as these special drums have what we call a soul. Some people were laughing, thinking I might go through the building beating the Daf and chanting. Well, I thought of it, but did not want to get kicked out. My family knows my voice is not too good and perhaps I might miss a beat.

Will post soon, inshallah! And thanks Isaiah! Also, do not forget the Purple Ribbons (see previous post).

Iraqi Purple Pearl Ribbon Movement

2006-05-13T17:01:00.000+02:00

Well, I am getting eaten alive with mosquitos, on my face, lip, ear, and I must have sat down on one, because,there is a bite below. Lost my product key for microsoft and my word is messed up ... forgive my spelling and grammar.

Over the months, many people inquired how they can help and I thought last night about a purple ribbon campaign symbolizing support for the Iraqi people to be tied with a yellow ribbon for the troops, both American, International and the Iraqi military. Taken for the last post, the purple finger of freedom, it would be great to show the Iraqi people international support and a ribbon tied to car or what ever will fit every one's budget. Purple and Yellow look really good together, yellow or gold, very complimentary colors.

This week I am focusing on a few select NGOS in Iraq to send donations. I will visit some in person to "vet" them, meaning make sure their projects are solid. The situation in Iraq right now concerning new organizations is there is a temporary hold on new registrations of non governmental organizations. They are conducting research into the present organizations and seeing who is actually completing projects and who is in name only. Besides, there are many good ngos here, why reinvent the wheel and duplicate efforts. It is better to partner and compliment the existing hardworking organizations.

So more to come in about 10 days. Tomorrow I will post again and then may be off line for several days, as I am not sure about internet access in the region where I am traveling. I guess I could put a satellite dish on my head and beam up but it is really too hot for that, probably have to flip it over as sunshade.

So a way to start showing support is the idea of the purple ribbon for the Iraqis. If someone can carry the ball on that, it would be grand!

Miriam

Baghdad's Economy and the Purple Zone

2006-05-10T19:52:00.000+02:00

I have been frozen; partly because of electric and internet, partly because of work, partly because I am in the middle of a shifting phase, partly hand washing clothes and partly because of the situation here in Baghdad. Please forgive me.

In reading my fellow Iraqi Blogs, I became frozen. The situation is not good and so much, I would like to meet the other bloggers for chai (tea), but cannot, at least my situation right now will not allow it. I love reading "Iraq the Model" and wished to write about his post, "The Battle for Baghdad," since I am working on private sector and economic development. Security is the number one issue right now disrupting the economic and political process. Many have suggested "safe zones," "peace zones," or otherwise, secured economic (including industrial) zones with housing, etc.

Developed globally in different conflict regions, these zones are not a new idea, but the situation or "war" in Iraq is different. The people killing and bombing are not military or guerilla fighters, they are cowards, who cannot even face the people they are attacking. Those that do, and torture their victims before hand, I question if they have souls.

Regardless, I predict, starting in the next few months, and throughout the couple of years, Omar may get his wish and we push, secure and develop Baghdad from the inside out. It will be an "All Hands on Deck" operation, multi national, multi ethnic, multi religious, all unified, multi agency and ministries, one that has never been attempted before, in history and I hope it will be successful. May those who think terrorism and killing our beloved Iraqis is their chosen path, think twice. This is not a wishful dream but inshallah, the new reality here, inshallah.

Reading the blogs lately, perhaps outsiders have noticed, I have, heaviness, a change in our writings. The situation here as changed. The Adhamiya district, which Omar discusses, is particularly in high conflict, meaning outright fighting. I have heard from some near there and all have said, they are tired, so tired, and had enough. Parents with children, elderly, normal people caught in this multi cross fire. Many are fleeing, others are getting ready, to push; push anyone who causes any violence.

Finally, we need to pull in industrial safe zones, get people back to work. Part of the problem, few people mention, is the tremendously high unemployment. Factories have gone from 100+ workers to about 3-6 caretakers, who sleep where they work. Many are afraid to go to work, others, the materials and supplies cannot get to the businesses or the security cost is too high. The banking systems needs total revamping, loans are unreasonable because of interest rates or as in Islamic banking "administrative fees." Businesspeople are kidnapped multiple times for ransom, purely economic. They work from home, through the telephone and internet. As best they try, they are losing business, and people are losing jobs.

Therefore, I am with Omar; let us get these safe secured zones, from the "Red zone" to the Purple zones, as the color symbolizes purpose, spirituality, courage, and the purple finger of true freedom.

Back from the Land of Oz

2006-05-07T14:40:00.000+02:00

Back from the Land of Oz (beautiful Kurdistan), the Baghdad mosquitoes and the heat were waiting for me, already in May. The internet has been very naughty, and there is a mist of tiredness lingering during different hours of the day, so I am trying to fight that to get my work done.

I want to discuss a few things today, perception versus reality, little tidbits of information, here and there about life in Baghdad during the past few months. Share with you what is appears to be and what many Iraqis are going through on a daily basis. A doctor said, each evening he gets over 50 patients, most suffering from stress related ailments. Me, my only difficult tooth (otherwise no cavities in my life), broke incompletely and I took care of it myself, because that is life here (Mom, cover your ears). Anyway, a few people have shared their personal stories. First, let me give you a glimpse of what is on the surface.

Baghdad once was and can still be a vibrant, modern city. If one drives around or looks out on to the street, people are going about their business. There are rush hours, like any city, people walking on the sidewalk, shopping for appliances, or getting the night's dinner. They are going to work (those who are fortunate to have jobs, the unemployment is tremendously high), couples with their heads close, deciding on children's clothes and shoes. There are women in full chaldors (long over coat from head to toe, which also protects clothes and hair from dust and sand) and others with beautiful hair flowing and the top fashions. There are people on motorcycles, bicycles, eating in the park, and it seems like any other city in the world.

Iraqis have similar family issues, a child gets sick, a brother gets a promotion, sibling fighting, who is going to take out the garbage, who is holding up the line for the bathroom. Discussion and laughter over dinner, momma's cooking.

In the past few months, if worse could get worse, it has. Yes, on the surface, it seems normal, if it could be, which it is not. The truth is.. one man sits up at night, with his mother and brother and a rifle across his legs, worried the night fighting will bring a knock at his door. Another family, young couple, sleep with their children, including a small baby between them. Why? There were bombings only a few buildings down and they are protecting them from falling bricks.

Many have moved their families 4-5 times, not staying too long in one place, in fear. Others make sure they get their groceries early and get home before 4:00pm. Many no longer go to the mosques or churches because they fear of bombings of these precious religious community buildings, and instead pray at home.

So we all put one foot in front of the other, day by day, hour by hour, sometimes laughing but underneath it all, there is growing concern and yes, fear. Many families are fleeing altogether. What I am trying to say, the media does not coverage Baghdad well at all, journalists, except those embedded are all enclosed in a compound and report on only the violence and clips given to them. There are not bombings on every corner, and life must go on here, like any other city. But the truth be told, the courageous Iraqis of Baghdad, have serious concerns and restless nights.

Pearls of Iraq: Poem from a Friend of the Iraqi Kurds

2006-05-05T08:42:00.000+02:00

A very close friend of mine was inspired by the photos of Iraq Kurdistan and wrote a poem to the Kurdish people. This person has over the years, developed an understanding and love for the Kurdish people and for all Iraqis, who are struggling every day for peaceful co-existence in these challenging times. I have also included more photos of Springtime in Kurdistan.

To the Pearls of Kurdistan

In a Land I have never seen, its mountains
oh so beautiful standing tall;
overlooking the valleys of grass and
trees so lush and green.

From its fertile soil, sprout roses rich with color.
Where there once was pain and turmoil,
now its a place where families come to meet.
Where children… young boys and girls laugh and play
This truly is a picture of the Kurdish pearls.

Written by a Friend of the Kurds

Imams, Rabbis Share The Same Prayer For Peace

2006-05-02T19:29:00.000+02:00

There is so much going on that I was not sure what to write about today. The vultures at Kurdistan's borders (Iran and Turkey), life on the streets of Baghdad? Rice supporting Turkey instead of Kurdistan! The US, Iran, Iraq, Israel situation? I was checking my mail, pondering and a dear friend of mine sent me this article, the bonding of the Abrahamic faiths. It is a great pick me up and the other issues slipped away…

Imams, Rabbis Share The Same Prayer For Peace
Dania Rari Pratiwi, Contributor, Jakarta
Published in The Jakarta Post -- Sunday, 30 April 2006, On the Web

An e-mail came to my inbox about two months ago. It was from Ari Alexander, co-executive director of an organization called Children of Abraham. It's an organization that fosters dialog between young Jews and Muslims from all over the world. This project is based on the Internet, so we can enter the dialog from any place in the world. I've been a member since 2004.

In his e-mail, Ari, an American Jew, asked me if I was interested in attending the Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace, due to take place in Seville, Spain from March 19 to 22. When I read his e-mail, my first reaction was: Is this a joke? We all know there are problems between Muslims and Jews, which cause us to fight and hate one other. I have met a lot of Imams in my life and they all agreed that Jews are the enemies of Muslims. They are infidels. We cannot be friends with them. I remember an Imam saying in a sermon, "Jews are our biggest enemy. We have to kill them, or they will kill us first." Scary. And now this congress will gather together Imams and Rabbis and hope they will make peace? Interesting!

I replied to Ari's e-mail immediately, telling him that I'd love to attend the congress as a Children of Abraham student, and see how the Imams and Rabbis made peace -- instead of killing each other. In response, Ari sent me a list of questions and said the Children of Abraham could send four (of its 147) students to the congress. The list of questions would help them choose the four lucky students. They would judge us based on our answers, so I gave them the best answer I could possibly give.

It took almost a week for them to decide who the lucky four were. I got more nervous by the day. I checked my e-mail every morning and evening with no avail. Finally, on March 3, I received an e-mail from Ari saying I had been chosen to represent Children of Abraham students at the congress. I was speechless and jumped from my chair to run around my house. I was very happy! March 3 was also my 19th birthday and Ari's e-mail was the best birthday gift I've ever had. Later, Ari told me that Children of Abraham could only send two students, not four, to the congress, and they chose me to be one of two. It was indeed an honor for me. I only had two weeks to get everything ready for Seville. It was probably the busiest two weeks of my life, and my excitement grew.

It stayed with me until my flight to Seville from Madrid. I was on the same flight as some Rabbis -- an Indonesian traveling alone. When I saw the Rabbis on the plane, I suddenly felt hesitant. I'm going to meet the enemy, I said to myself. Will the Imams and the Rabbis make peace? Are we going to be OK during the congress? Before we landed in Seville, I asked God to fill the hearts of the Imams and Rabbis with love, so they could share it with each other.

The congress organizer picked us up at the airport by bus. When I entered the bus, I felt like a stranger. The bus was full of bearded old men in black suites, and they were all staring at me, a girl wearing a brown sweater, jeans, sneakers, backpack and a look of exhaustion. A complete stranger. Some of them smiled and some of them gave me a "who-the-hell-are-you" look while I struggled to find a seat. Finally I found a seat beside a man with a white beard and black hat. He introduced himself as a Rabbi from Israel. "You should come to Israel someday," he said. "You'll learn a lot of things there. I can arrange a visa for you if you are interested." I smiled at him and thought, a rabbi has just offered me a visa for Israel. Please tell me, God, is this reality or am I hallucinating after a 20-hour flight?

When we arrived at the hotel, we didn't have much time to rest because we had to attend the opening ceremony. I was very sleepy, so I took a shower to refresh myself and prepare for the ceremony. I met Ari and Gul Rukh Rahman at the ceremony. Gul, a Pakistani Muslim, is a co-executive director of Children of Abraham too. I was very happy when we met. I've been working with them for two years via the Internet, and it was the first time I'd met them in the flesh. Ari also introduced me to Yasser Salimi and Pearl Gluck. Yasser is a Children of Abraham student like me, and Pearl is a filmmaker. She was going to make a documentary film of us during the congress. They are my good friends. They knew that it was my first time to meet Jews, so they encouraged me to talk to the Rabbis. I was pretty scared at first. Talk to the Rabbis? What if they don't want to talk to me because I'm a Muslim?

Ari and Gul introduced me to some Rabbis during dinnertime, and I was surprised when I found out that the Rabbis were very nice and friendly. They were just like my grandpa, wise and full of love. I remember a Rabbi held my hand with his trembling hand and smiled. We did not speak -- there was no need. We just smiled at each other, which was worth more than a thousand words for me. The Imams and the Rabbis sat together during dinnertime. They talked, laughed, even hugged each other. It was amazing for me to see an Imam and a Rabbi embrace and laugh together. So we're no longer enemies, I thought. We're friends now.

The next day, I noticed the congress organizer had designated a room of the hotel for praying. I was surprised to find that Muslims and Jews would be praying in the same room. The Muslims used the room early in the morning. We laid out our prayer mats and joined together in prayer. After that, we folded up our mats so the Jews could use the room. When the Jews finished, they readied the room for the Muslims. They put everything away so we could put our prayer mats back. One day, I asked one of the Imams about this, and he told me, "I believe we're not just sharing the same prayer room. We share the same prayer too -- to let peace rule the world." I knew he was right, somehow.

We had a chance to go to the city that day. I went with Pearl and Yasser, but I lost them in the city. I panicked. Thankfully, two Imams and a Rabbi found me and took me with them. We found an old cathedral and went in together. The cathedral was very old and beautiful. We spent some time in the cathedral before we realized we might have missed the shuttle bus, so we rushed back to the bus shelter. When we were in the bus, I realized something and started to laugh. I went inside the cathedral with two Imams and a Rabbi. How cool is that?

I usually stayed in the lobby with my Children of Abraham friends at night, after the congress session finished. Sometimes an Imam or a Rabbi joined us, and we had a discussion together. I enjoyed my time with them. One night, when we were having a discussion, I saw some Imams gathered in the lobby. They sat in a circle and started to sing a song in Arabic. Some of them clapped their hands. The circle grew larger and larger as they sang, and I noticed some Rabbis had joined the circle too. Someone brought a flute and started to play. The Rabbis clapped their hands with the Imams. The singer sang another song, and suddenly some of them stood up and started to dance in the circle. They danced and sang together all night long. It was funny to see how the Imams and Rabbis danced together and laughed. They were like brothers.

Some Imams and Rabbis were very concerned about Indonesia. They asked me a lot of questions about Indonesia, about the tsunami, the political situation, the economy, the bombs and the terrorist attacks ... everything. They also asked me about Judaism in Indonesia. I told them that I had never met a Jew in Indonesia, and most people in Indonesia are prejudiced against the Jews; that Jews are bad people, infidels, the enemy. I've heard these things said since I was a kid -- I was raised in a Muslim family and attended a Muslim school for 12 years -- kindergarten until senior high school. I also realized that it's hard to talk about promoting a Jew-Muslim relationship in Indonesia. I've tried for two years, since I joined Children of Abraham, and people made me stop. I think it's impossible to promote a Jew-Muslim relationship in Indonesia. When I told this to an Imam at the congress, he smiled at me and said, "It takes time and a lot of patience. But it's worth trying. Regard this as a challenge, and don't give up. Ever."

I met a lot of great Imams and Rabbis there, and I learned a lot of things from them. I learned that we can always turn our enemies into friends. I also learned that we may be different, but inside we're brothers. The Imams and the Rabbis have shown us. And now it's my turn, and your turn, to show the world that we can come together peacefully instead of killing each other.

On my way to the airport, I sat beside a Rabbi on the bus. He didn't offer to arrange me a visa or give me the "who-the-hell-are-you" look. And I wasn't a stranger anymore. The Rabbis were smiling at me and greeted me. "So little girl, tell me," a Rabbi asked me (and yes, he called me little girl) "How did you enjoy the congress?" I smiled at him and said, "I met a lot of grandpas at the congress. How do you think I enjoyed it?" He held my hand and we laughed together.

Iraqi Pearls: Kurdish Roses

2006-04-30T21:10:00.000+02:00

Iraq Kurdistan Roses and Pearls

It is springtime in Iraq, although in the south it is getting warmer, the north can be cool. I was trying to find a poem on roses and pearls and the best one I could find at the moment is the following.

Roses on a Brier

Roses on a brier,
Pearls from out the bitter sea,
such is earth's desire
However pure it be.

Neither bud nor brier,
Neither pearl nor brine for me:
Be stilled my long desire;
There shall be no more sea.

Be stilled my passionate heart;
Old earth shall end, new earth shall be:
Be still and earn thy part
Where shall be no more sea.

Christina Georgina Rossetti
1830-1894

Zawahri and Osama harm Islam for Political Purpose

2006-04-29T09:49:00.000+02:00

Zawahri and Osama harm Islam using politics and everyone one is wondering if these two have released news this week for a purpose. Who knows, at the same time there have been numerous Islamic peacebuilding conferences going on around the world at the same time, countering their use of Islam for political reasons. One in Jordan, two others in the US (one of which I was suppose to present my paper, yes, I finally finished my research, Islamic Approaches and Principles of Dialogue).

Really, I think these two men have totally lost it and are out of touch with reality or have an aim of self fulfilling prophecy. The fact is, their words and actions have harmed Islam and Muslims beyond anything the US or anyone outside of the Ummah could achieve. Both men have issued statements that are purely political and have not contributed to Da’wah or Islam in anyway. I wonder who is paying them to destroy and desecrate the religion and the Prophet’s teachings, peace be upon him.

They are at war with Islam, the US, the Arab nations, the Iraqis, and Indonesians (Bali), the Muslims in India, Pakistan, Kashmir. Ya, these two guys have the whole world shunning them except those few cells brainwashed and equally out of touch. The Ummah has turned their back on these mischievous people. Clearly, the Prophet, peace be upon him, warned us about them.

There is an interesting hadith which discusses Dajjal, Satan, who the Prophet says will cause mischief on the earth, and then Isa, Jesus will return, or be present to destroy him. The Dajjal is described as having curly hair, twisted and slight problem with eye. Hmmmm, I have read this before, when writing another article on the far right sects in the Abrahamic faiths and their belief in Armageddon. It always fascinates me whether the dots connect with the 3 religions, Islam, Christianity and Judaism and if today’s actions by extremists self-fulfilling prophecies and by one with curly hair, a big mouth and causing harm to the Iraqi people. So, ok, I am nerdy with my research, anyway, anyhow. See below for the hadith. Just an interesting ponderance.

Translation of Sahih Muslim, Book 41: Book 041, Number 7015:
http://www.usc.edu/dept/MSA/fundamentals/hadithsunnah/muslim/041.smt.html#041.7015

An-Nawwas b. Sam'an reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) made a mention of the Dajjal one day in the morning. He sometimes described him to be insignificant and sometimes described (his turmoil) as very significant rand we felt) as if he were in the cluster of the date-palm trees. When we went to him (to the Holy Prophet) in the evening and he read (the signs of fear) in our faces, he said: What is the matter with you? We said: Allah's Messenger, you made a mention of the Dajjal in the morning (sometimes describing him) to be insignificant and sometimes very important, until we began to think as if he were present in some (near) part of the cluster of the datepalm trees. Thereupon he said: I harbour fear in regard to you in so many other things besides the Dajjal. If he comes forth while I am among on, I shall contend with him on your behalf, but if he comes forth while I am not amongst you, a man must contend on his own behalf and Allah would take care of every Muslim on my behalf (and safeguard him against his evil).

He (Dajjal) would be a young man with twisted, contracted hair, and a blind eye. I compare him to 'Abd-ul-'Uzza b. Qatan. He who amongst you would survive to see him should recite over him the opening verses of Sura Kahf (xviii.). He would appear on the way between Syria and Iraq and would spread mischief right and left. O servant of Allah! adhere (to the path of Truth). We said: Allah's Messenger, how long would he stay on the earth? He said.. For forty days, one day like a year and one day like a month and one day like a week and the rest of the days would be like your days. We said: Allah's Messenger, would one day's prayer suffice for the prayers of day equal to one year? Thereupon he said: No, but you must make an estimate of time (and then observe prayer). We said: Allah's Messenger, how quickly would he walk upon the earth? Thereupon he said: Like cloud driven by the wind. He would come to the people and invite them (to a wrong religion) and they would affirm their faith in him and respond to him. He would then give command to the sky and there would be rainfall upon the earth and it would grow crops. Then in the evening, their posturing animals would come to them with their humps very high and their udders full of milk and their flanks stretched. He would then come to another people and invite them. But they would reject him and he would go away from them and there would be drought for them and nothing would be left with them in the form of wealth.

He would then walk through the waste, land and say to it: Bring forth your treasures, and the treasures would come out and collect (themselves) before him like the swarm of bees. He would then call a person brimming with youth and strike him with the sword and cut him into two pieces and (make these pieces lie at a distance which is generally) between the archer and his target. He would then call (that young man) and he will come forward laughing with his face gleaming (with happiness) and it would at this very time that Allah would send Christ, son of Mary, and he will descend at the white minaret in the eastern side of Damscus wearing two garments lightly dyed with saffron and placing his hands on the wings of two Angels. When he would lower his head, there would fall beads of perspiration from his head, and when he would raise it up, beads like pearls would scatter from it. Every non-believer who would smell the odour of his self would die and his breath would reach as far as he would be able to see.

He would then search for him (Dajjal) until he would catch hold of him at the gate of Ludd and would kill him. Then a people whom Allah had protected would come to Jesus, son of Mary, and he would wipe their faces and would inform them of their ranks in Paradise and it would be under such conditions that Allah would reveal to Jesus these words: I have brought forth from amongst My servants such people against whom none would be able to fight; you take these people safely to Tur, and then Allah would send Gog and Magog and they would swarm down from every slope. The first of them would pass the lake of Tibering and drink out of it. And when the last of them would pass, he would say: There was once water there. Jesus and his companions would then be besieged here (at Tur, and they would be so much hard pressed) that the head of the ox would be dearer to them than one hundred dinirs and Allah's Apostle, Jesus, and his companions would supplicate Allah, Who would send to them insects (which would attack their necks) and in the morning they would perish like one single person. Allah's Apostle, Jesus, and his companions would then come down to the earth and they would not find in the earth as much space as a single span which is not filled with their putrefaction and stench. Allah's Apostle, Jesus, and his companions would then again beseech Allah, Who would send birds whose necks would be like those of bactrin camels and they would carry them and throw them where God would will.

Then Allah would send rain which no house of clay or (the tent of) camels' hairs would keep out and it would wash away the earth until it could appear to be a mirror. Then the earth would be told to bring forth its fruit and restore its blessing and, as a result thereof, there would grow (such a big) pomegranate that a group of persons would be able to eat that, and seek shelter under its skin and milch cow would give so much milk that a whole party would be able to drink it. And the milch camel would give such (a large quantity of) milk that the whole tribe would be able to drink out of that and the milch sheep would give so much milk that the whole family would be able to drink out of that and at that time Allah would send a pleasant wind which would soothe (people) even under their armpits, and would take the life of every Muslim and only the wicked would survive who would commit adultery like asses and the Last Hour would come to them.
________________________________________

More Pearls of Iraq Kurdish Men's Clothes and Photos

2006-04-28T19:55:00.000+02:00

Our plane was cancelled and rescheduled for tomorrow back to Baghdad, oh poor us. In between work, yes work, we slipped out to the market and did a little shopping. The people were so gracious and willing to help us, including some of my shopping purchases. I got a new hijab, pretty neat and later found a dress in the same colors. Will take photo, (hmmm dress only) when I return. On the opposite end of the spectrum, I ordered a custom made Kurdish men’s outfit in navy blue. The tailors were wonderful, showing us how the pants work (which are huge) and the components. I think I was the first woman to get fitted but they had great humor, patience and truly good adab with many smiles. So soon I will return to pick up my new Kurdish clothes, men’s style and proud to wear it, ommm somewhere. Who knows, it may start a new trend with the women, although the women peshmerga wear similar.

Pearls of Iraq: Springtime in Kurdistan

2006-04-26T14:56:00.000+02:00

Sometimes the pearls are not words but photos and these speak of the beauty of Kurdistan, The Other Iraq.

God Bless Kurdistan

2006-04-25T20:10:00.000+02:00

Beep Beep,

Quick note, I am on the baby computer, and it is almost out of juice. Just got home to Kurdistan, flew in, touched the ground with tears. Tonight, friends took my colleague and I around town, to see the new park and the beautiful roses, all roses, all over, and it is so good to be home, so good.

Oh, the beep beep are the Kurdish drivers honking, I knew I was home when I heard the beep beep!

Kurdish Sufis dance and chant in ceremony, feeling safer from militants

2006-04-24T21:35:00.000+02:00

I may just have to eat my words from the last post! Yummm, I will be extremely happy to do this. Below is a wonderful article on one of the major Islamic Sufi groups in Iraq, Iran and globally, al-tariqqa Qadiriyya al-Kasnazani, a group of brothers and sisters I love very dearly. It is so great to see Islamic peacebuilders and lovers of God and Creation to get some media coverage. Truly they are a shining light in a sometimes very dark environment and deeply sad events. May my beloved family in Kurdistan and dear Shaykh al-Kasnazani continue our work in Islamic peacebuilding and have the peace and support to do so. Miriam

Kurdish Sufis dance and chant in ceremony, feeling safer from militants
Monday, April 24, 2006
AP
BARZANJA, Iraq (AP) -- The dervishes swayed with the drumbeat, flinging their long hair and chanting "Allah, Allah." Nearby others were showing, as one put it, their "passion for God": one drove a skewer through his cheek, another chewed on a light bulb, crunching the glass in his mouth.

The aim is for the Sufi -- an adherent to Islam's mystical branch -- to show that in his enrapture with God he's beyond pain.

They were among more than 1,000 men and women from across northern Iraq's Kurdistan region and from Kurdish towns in neighboring Iran who came for an annual gathering in this town 25 kilometers (15 miles) east of Sulaimaniyah.

The gathering has grown since last year, when several hundred showed up -- a sign that adherents are less afraid of Islamic militants who have harassed Sufis in the past because they consider their practices heretical.

"The growth has been continual since the acts of violence have eased," Sheik Qader Kakhama al-Kasnazani, the spiritual leader of the Kasnazaniyah Sufi order, said at Friday's "hadra," a gathering to honor a revered religious figure.

The autonomous Kurdish region in Iraq's north has been largely spared from the violent insurgency that has bloodied the rest of the country. But the area has seen activity by Islamic militants, some with suspected al-Qaida links.

The Sufis also have encouragement from the Kurdistan regional government, which supports Sufi groups because they are apolitical and are seen as a counterbalance to extremists.

The groups have a wide appeal, drawing followers from educated upper classes down to the impoverished.

"The soul always needs elevating," said Ahmed Rahman, 24, an engineering student. "So when I become an engineer, I'll remain a dervish. Even if I became president, I'd remain a dervish."

Hundreds of thousands of Sufis across the Islamic world -- both Sunnis and Shiites, since the mystical trend crosses Islam's sectarian divide -- adhere to numerous orders and sub-orders, each following a particular sheik or spiritual teacher.

Though each school has its own practices, most seek a mystical closeness to God through meditative chants and dancing.

Some, like the Kasnazaniyah, also pierce their bodies with skewers, knives and glass. One man at Friday's ceremony drove a skewer through the bottom of his mouth and out his chin. Others had shirts stained with their own blood from cuts on their tongue.

The ceremony was held throughout the day in an outdoor sports center near the tomb of the Sheikhs Moussa and Eissa, a pair of 14th century holy men revered by the Kasnazaniyah.

To the beat of drums, dervishes -- some dressed in traditional Kurdish garb -- swayed to and fro, repeating God's name, in a "halqa," or circle. The 67-year-old Sheik Qader threw himself among them, joining the chant. Nearby, several dozen women were holding their own, separate halqa.

Ibrahim Por-Maliki, the youngest dervish at 16 years old, had come from the Iranian town of Marivan, about 50 kilometers (30 miles) away to join the halqa -- though he was staying away from the knives.

"I'd like to get to that stage," he said. "But my mother let my come only on condition I don't hit or cut myself."

A Comment Worth Posting

2006-04-22T06:20:00.000+02:00

Antar shared a comment to my last post and I wish to put it front and center and respond, as he makes very good points.

Too bad the bad guys who are determined on destroying Iraq aren't reading your words, and I would venture to guess that they are in truth the furthest from God.
*** You are right, most likely none of the people who need to read the Iraqi blogs, and about the true side of Islam and peace building read them. I have come to determine the new fad word of the year, sectarian violence, is a small majority bent on illogical, political driven ideologies without any consideration for religion, ethnic or humanitarian compassion. In addition, they are brainwashed and isolated.

I wonder if all this blogging is just creating an illusion for the rest of us thinking that this is the way to solve our real problems in Iraq and help rebuild a country back again. ***Illusions are visions and visions through thoughts, words and implementation can become realities. As those who are determined to destroy Iraq have implemented their illogical ideology, investing their very lives, so can we do the same with equal countenance. We continue, but increasing our determination and intentions of peaceful co-existence and rebuilding, yet firmly deal with those who are surrounded with darkness. Darkness can never overpower light, the scientific physics are not there, one spark of light pours and invades the dark.

I'm afraid the ones who mostly need to read all these blogs are likely not the once to have or will ever hear of a blog in their life time.
***Some are well educated, others not, but have a slipped brain cell or chip. I hope that there are "powers to be" who read these blogs, and began to realize we must approach this situation in a different manner. For example, in Kurdistan, people are afraid to practice their religions, the Kurds who are moderate and groups who are actually practicing Islamic peace building and dialogue. This is the other extreme, whereas the Kurdish government could be using these Pearls, they are instead trying to suppress them and the population as a whole religiously. On a survival level, elementary, this would be appropriate, but I am afraid, history is repeating itself. They need to find innovative ways to deal with extremism (one way is through prevention training) by using those who are willing to risk their lives to foster and facilitate peace. One more thing, we hold each other up, in these blogs, to carry on our works, and that means a lot, hand to hand, raising each other, when one gets discouraged.

Meanwhile, outside Iraq, there are many Islamic peacebuilding and dialogical movements, Imams are training in conflict reconciliation, interreligious dialogue, prevention among the youth, etc. As the KRG wishes, and the Iraqi Ministries wish… to be remain behind the times, in the global movement. Globally, people from all the religions are looking to their faiths, not for absolutists view but how the inner essence can be applied for co-existence, tolerance, mercy and compassion. To use religion not to start wars but to end them.

The silent majority is partly responsible for the current disaster and I'm afraid too many are giving up the fight. It makes me wonder if we all deserve to have a country called Iraq anymore.
***The Iraqis deserve the very best and a chance to rebuild and rediscover life. We all put our heads down and cry, but it is just a matter of time and we get up and continue, letting the moment pass, as it is, and with determination, carry on. For me, personally, if I give up, then I give up on God and myself, and fear of the works left undone. I want to stand at the end of my life, or in the hereafter and be able to say, I did not give up and did the very best I could do, with love and determination for the Iraqi people and God's creation as a whole. Our children are depending on us.

Pearls of Iraq: Fridays in Baghdad, Iraq

2006-04-21T08:53:00.000+02:00

I am on yet another deadline, it is constant but I wish to keep up posts on Pearls of Iraq. It is only 10:30 am and it is Friday in Baghdad. I dread Fridays, as there are always more bombs, more attacks. Friday in Islam and Iraq is a day of prayers, family and community. Already there have been at least 2-3 major explosions, it is still morning. They attack mosques and morning markets, as people go shopping for the afternoon meal, much like Sundays elsewhere. So whoever attacks, they are attacking Muslims, they are attacking innocent Iraqis and is against Islam and the Abrahamic religions. This is very clear.

Even if thou stretch out thy hand against me to kill me, I shall not stretch out my hand against thee to kill thee, lo! I fear Allah, the Lord of the Worlds.
Al-Quran 5.028

They are losers who besottedly have slain their children without knowledge, and have forbidden that which Allah bestowed upon them, inventing a lie against Allah. They indeed have gone astray and are not guided. Al-Quran 6.140

*All children are our children, especially the precious and vulnerable children of Iraq.

Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book 73:Volume 8, Book 73, Number 8: Narrated Anas bin Malik:
Allah's Apostle mentioned the greatest sins or he was asked about the greatest sins. He said, "To join partners in worship with Allah; to kill a soul which Allah has forbidden to kill; and to be undutiful or unkind to one's parents." The Prophet added, "Shall I inform you of the biggest of the great sins? That is the forged statement or the false witness." Shu'ba (the sub-narrator) states that most probably the Prophet said, "the false witness."

Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book 73: Volume 8, Book 73, Number 70: Narrated 'Abdullah:
Allah's Apostle said, "Abusing a Muslim is Fusuq (i.e., an evil-doing), and killing him is Kufr (disbelief)."

That is all, as I must get back to work.

al-Jaafari and Rumsfeld Refuse to Step Down

2006-04-19T20:03:00.000+02:00

BAGHDAD, Iraq - Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari insisted Wednesday on another term, saying it is "out of the question" he will step down.

WASHINGTON - Vowing not to bow to calls for his ouster from several retired generals, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld said Tuesday their grievances are a natural fallout from his push for dramatic changes in the military.

What a pair! Shoulder to Shoulder, Shan ba Shan, parallels galore! Let's get some fresh staff on both sides with innovative solutions and who look for shared interests rather than positions and who have attributes of humility and grace to the people they serve. It's time to air out the rooms, open the draperies and discover different perspectives and approaches to the issues at hand. I am sure the two mentioned above will have many speaking engagements and book offers at retirement. Bet they have some interesting stories to share.

Miriam

Baghdad Private Sector: SimCity

2006-04-19T01:07:00.000+02:00

I renamed this post several times and perhaps it may become a little series. We did not have internet for 4 days, no TV, and last night because of storm, no telephone, sounds almost like the Bates Motel. I was going to write a more formal post about the private sector and rebuilding in Baghdad but having written so many formal papers, etc the past 3 weeks, I will stick to the personal journal style and express my opinions on the realities and facts presented before me.

One may wonder why I using the metaphor of the game, "SimCity." Years ago, before I got too busy with studies, it was my favorite game, and perhaps I should have brought it, but there is little free time here anyway. For those not familiar, the game has two options, build a city from the beginning or take on a well-known city and try to develop it through infrastructure, commerce, industry and residential, including social services. There are available "cheats," meaning unlimited power or money, etc, codes to make life easy, there is a choice of having "disasters," to make it challenging. In reality, in Baghdad, there are very few cheats and no choice about disasters. This game was used in some school systems, to educate students about planning and city infrastructures. I wonder if the game people added Baghdad, after all these years, suppose not, although, I still see a beautiful city.

One of the cheats in the game is "Uncle" who has unlimited money. As we know in reality, "Uncle" does not have unlimited money to rebuild Baghdad, much less Iraq as a whole. Another cheat is unlimited energy power, including windmills or a choice of others. I like solar power, which would work very well here. Actually, I have spoken to several solar power companies and engineers and it very possible here. Regardless, one of the game's disasters, if one chooses to do so, are "Aliens." In the game it is a one time thing, here it is everyday, Aliens attacking the Iraqis, through bombs, etc.

So what does this mean to the budding private sector? It is collapsing in this region. Here are the main reasons:

1. Security- Obviously security is an issue but the situation and fear has become very grave. Many workers in some industries are abandoning work in fear of being target or the simple task of getting to work. Women are still being threatened on a daily basis and many work from home. Those who go out to teach or work in offices are the brave ones. Private businesses and retail are being targeted. This is a case of "Aliens" disaster on a daily basis.

2. Banking and Investment- The banking system needs a total overhaul, restructuring, training, and set standards. I know some are attempting this but this is a major undertaking, and frankly far beyond my knowledge and experience. There is a push for private sector but the thing is, many of the subsidies have been withdrawn at crucial time and people have difficulties getting loans, including micro-loans. Any loans are based on real assets and the loan is a tiny %, interest rates are high. There are loan programs being developed, but this should have been done 2 years ago, before the businesses began a rapid decline. Furthermore, it was too early to withdraw subsidies, there has to be a transition stage and a long one at that. So the carpet was yanked out from under the Iraqis feet and they are told to be overnight entrepreneurs with little credit, or loans, mean while the Aliens are attacking.

Cutting this short, it is late, but will pick it up later. It is a start on this topic. People are welcome to offer opinions…with possible insights and constructive solutions. More to come.

Catfights in Baghdad

2006-04-14T16:12:00.000+02:00

There are two things I will not get use to… the catfights and the bombs going off in Baghdad.

The cats are loud for being such little creatures and they just do not give up. Everyday, and sometimes night, they fight loudly. The other is the bombs. It is Friday in Baghdad. A day that is normally spent in religious and spiritual reflection, with family and friends, in prayers, in the community, has now become bomb day and they started early today with Salat Al Fajr (dawn prayers) and continue throughout the day. There were just now, 3 huge, blasts and the sounds echo across this beautiful city. They can be far away, but everyone looks up, listens…wondering, thinking…

Work is very busy as we are on some incredible deadlines but even so, one can not help but pause, and say a prayer for those hurt or possibly dead from such uncomprehensible violence.

On a positive note, I have been involved in many dialogues with people and the majority of Iraqi people who do not see differences. As a man said, I am Shia, he is Sunni, that brother there is Christian and they are all my friends and brothers. The others came up to talk and agreed. What is happening today, is not of the Iraqi culture. All men said, we are one, we are Muslim…except our Christian brother and he is dear friend and good person, and we are all Iraqi. One Iraq, One people, United.

Ameen

Iraqi Islamic Leaders Meet for Peace

2006-04-08T19:53:00.000+02:00

This came to my mailbox in the morning and thought I would pass it on to
everyone. Wish I could go, being so close, but I have putting in long
hours at work. The conference is building on the issues discussed and reconciled at last year's conference which I posted below. Miriam

Jordan Times
Thursday, April 6, 2006

Iraqi Religious Leaders to meet in Amman, Jordan April 22

AMMAN (JT) — Jordan will host a meeting of Iraq's top Sunni, Shiite and
Kurdish religious and tribal leaders on April 22 in a bid to stem
sectarian violence and tension in the neighbouring country, an official
statement said Wednesday.

The Iraqi Islamic Reconciliation Summit, organised in cooperation
between Aal al Bayt Institute for Islamic Thought and the Arab League,
will provide a “forum for Iraqi leaders to take a crucial step towards
stemming the violence in Iraq,” according to an institute statement.
King Abdullah will join the delegates in a call for an end to bloodshed
and religious tension in Iraq. The summit is expected to issue a
declaration signed by all participants that fighting between Shiite and
Sunnis “has no legitimate religious basis.”

“The Iraqi Islamic Reconciliation Summit is a necessary initiative to
help bring the violence in Iraq to an end, establish a stable and fully
representative Iraqi government and permit a peaceful and orderly
withdrawal of coalition troops,” said the statement.

“Peace in Iraq cannot be achieved without a political solution, and a
political solution cannot, in turn, be achieved without a religious
solution because fighting in Iraq has generally occurred along religious
sectarian lines, especially among Iraq's Arab Muslim communities. The
Iraqi Reconciliation Summit thus seeks to alleviate religious tensions
by asserting fundamental principles that are shared by all Muslims. As
such, it could constitute a critical step in defusing civil tension and
helping to clear the way for a final and permanent political solution in
Iraq.”

The conference will be attended by top religious figures from Egypt,
Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Syria, the Gulf and Iran. Egyptian Sheikh Mohammad
Sayyed Tantawi of Al Azhar and Arab League Secretary General Amr Musa
are expected to join King Abdullah in “denouncing extremist
misinterpretations of Islam that feed the sectarian violence in Iraq and
reaffirming the underlying values and principles shared by all branches
of Islam,” according to the statement.

The summit seeks to build on the International Islamic Conference on
“True Islam and its Role in Modern Society” — hosted by King Abdullah in
July 2005. More than 180 scholars from 45 countries signed a declaration
condemning the practice known as takfir (calling others apostates) that
is used by extremists to justify violence. They were supported by fatwas
from 20 of the world's most senior Muslim scholars.

The declaration also recognised the legitimacy of the eight traditional
schools of Islamic jurisprudence, including the Sunni, Shiite and Ibadi
branches as well as traditional Asharite theology, Islamic mysticism
(Sufism) and moderate Salafi thought.

The declaration also identified common principles and beliefs and
defined the necessary qualifications and conditions for issuing fatwas,
exposing the illegitimacy of the so-called fatwas justifying terrorism.

The declaration was adopted by the Organisation of the Islamic
Conference summit in Mecca in December.

“The convening of the summit reflects King Abdullah's efforts to promote
moderation and harmony among Muslims. The King is uniquely poised to
facilitate this summit because, as a forty-third generation direct
descendent of the Prophet Mohammad and thus a member of the Aal al Bayt
[the Household of the Prophet Mohammad], he enjoys unique status amongst
all Muslims. Also, he is the scion of the oldest ruling dynasty in the
Islamic world,” said the statement.

“Jordan enjoys unique social, tribal, economic and historical ties with
Iraq. Since the beginning of the current fighting in Iraq, Jordan has
given shelter and safe passage to millions of Iraqis. There are today
over half a million Iraqis living in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.”

http://www.jordanembassyus.org/04062006001.htm

2005 Conference Declaration

In the Name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
Peace and Blessings be upon our master Muhammad and his Family

< from a single soul…>> (Al-Nisa', 4:1)

Statement issued by the International Islamic Conference held in
Amman, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, under the title:

‘True Islam and its Role in Modern Society'
27-29 I Jumada 1426 H./4-6 Tammuz (July) 2005 C.E.

In accordance with the fatwas issued by the Honourable and Respectable
Grand Imam Shaykh al-Azhar, the Grand Ayatollah Al-Sayyid Ali Al-
Sistani, the Honourable and Respectable Grand Mufti of Egypt, the
Honourable and Respectable Shi‘i clerics (both Ja‘fari and Zaydi), the
Honourable and Respectable Grand Mufti of the Sultanate of Oman, the
Islamic Fiqh Academy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Grand Council
for Religious Affairs of Turkey, the Honourable and Respectable Grand
Mufti of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Respectable Members of
its National Fatwa Committee, and the Honourable and Respectable Shaykh
Dr. Yusuf Al-Qaradawi;And in accordance with what was mentioned in the speech of His Hashemite Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, King of the Hashemite Kingdom
of Jordan during the opening session of our conference;
And in accordance with our own knowledge in sincerity to Allah the
Bounteous;

And in accordance with what was presented in this our conference by way
of research papers and studies, and by way of the discussions that
transpired in it;

We, the undersigned, hereby express our approval and affirmation of what
appears below:

1) Whosoever is an adherent of one of the four Sunni Schools of
Jurisprudence (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi‘i and Hanbali), the Ja‘fari (Shi‘i)
School of Jurisprudence, the Zaydi School of Jurisprudence, the Ibadi
School of Jurisprudence, or the Thahiri School of Jurisprudence is a
Muslim. Declaring that person an apostate is impossible. Verily his (or
her) blood, honour, and property are sacrosanct. Moreover, in accordance
with what appeared in the fatwa of the Honourable and Respectable Shaykh
al-Azhar, it is not possible to declare whosoever subscribes to the Ash
‘ari creed or whoever practices true Sufism an apostate. Likewise, it is
not possible to declare whosoever subscribes to true Salafi thought an
apostate. Equally, it is not possible to declare as apostates any group
of Muslims who believes in Allah the Mighty and Sublime and His
Messenger (may Peace and Blessings be upon him) and the pillars of
faith, and respects the pillars of Islam and does not deny any necessary
article of religion.

2) There exists more in common between the various Schools of
Jurisprudence than there is difference. The adherents to the eight
Schools of Jurisprudence are in agreement as regards the basic Islamic
principles. All believe in Allah the Mighty and Sublime, the One and the
Unique; that the Noble Qur'an is the Revealed Word of Allah; and that
our master Muhammad, may Blessings and Peace be upon him, is a Prophet
and Messenger unto all mankind. All are in agreement about the five
pillars of Islam: the two testaments of faith (shahadatayn), the ritual
prayer (salat), almsgiving (zakat), fasting the month of Ramadan (sawm),
and the Hajj to the Sacred House of Allah. All are also in agreement
about the foundations of belief: belief in Allah, His Angels, His
Scriptures, His Messengers, and in the Day of Judgement, in Divine
providence — good and evil. Disagreement between the ‘ulama' is only
with respect to the ancillary branches of religion (furu‘) and not the
principles and fundamentals (usul). Disagreement with respect to the
ancillary branches of religion (furu‘) is a mercy. Long ago it was said
that variance in opinion among ‘ulama' “is a good affair”.

3) Acknowledgement of the Schools of Jurisprudence within Islam means
adhering to a fundamental methodology in the issuance of fatwas. No one
may issue a fatwa without the requisite personal qualifications which
each School of Jurisprudence defines. No one may issue a fatwa without
adhering to the methodology of the Schools of Jurisprudence. No one may
claim to do absolute Ijtihad and create a new School of Jurisprudence or
to issue unacceptable fatwas that take Muslims out of the principles and
certainties of the Shari‘ah and what has been established in respect of
its Schools of Jurisprudence.

4) The essence of the Amman Message, which was issued on the Blessed
Night of Power in the year 1425 H. and which was read aloud in Masjid
al-Hashimiyyin, is adherence to the Schools of Jurisprudence and their
fundamental methodology. Acknowledging the Schools of Jurisprudence and
affirming discussion and engagement between them ensures fairness,
moderation, mutual forgiveness, compassion, and engaging in dialogue
with others.

5) We call for casting aside disagreement between Muslims and unifying
their words and stances; reaffirming their mutual respect for each
other; fortifying mutual affinity among their peoples and states;
strengthening the ties of brotherhood which unite them in the mutual
love of Allah. And we call upon Muslims to not permit discord and
outside interference between them.

Allah the Sublime says:
<> (Al-Hujurat, 49:10)
Praise be to Allah alone.

There is a suggestion that an appendix be added to the Final Statement
of the Conference which includes the two following important
recommendations:

- Participants in the International Islamic Conference, while meeting in
Amman, the Capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, close to the Holy
Aqsa Mosque and occupied Palestinian territories, underline the
necessity of exerting all possible efforts for the protection of the
Holy Aqsa Mosque against the dangers and encroachments it is exposed to.

This can only be done through putting an end to occupation and through
the liberation of holy places.

- Participants stress the necessity of consolidation of the meanings of
liberty and respect of opinion and opinion of the other side (s) in our
Muslim Worlds.

http://www.jordanembassyus.org/new/pr/pr07062005.shtml

Iraq: I am not here but there, rather I am here but not there

2006-04-04T11:56:00.000+02:00

I am where I am but it is not there but here. I look across a river that has flowed for thousands of years, washing away tears, happiness, and sometimes human lives. Here I am, working on a project, my hours are messed up and that is ok, as our team is split between time zones.

What is it like here? Hmmm, I was told by a friend to focus on the ball, on the work assigned and that is what I do. Two days ago there were thunderstorms and rain, the next day bombs and mortars. Although I am focused on the ball, a quiet moment of prayers is given for those who are harmed, those we can not see but know there was an attack.

Perhaps my hearing is good, or the land echos, for these sounds are far away, but close to my heart. Now it seems they, whoever they are, are attacking the private sector, the economy, attacking hardworking people who want a normal life, those who want to rebuild the country, provide jobs, industry, products and services…If “they” want a hell, “they” find an isolated island, and do what they wish, but leave the good people alone.

It will be difficult to write more then a few times a week for awhile, because there is much work and a short period of time. No photos are allowed, and that is ok. I am safe and happy to be doing something positive and constructive, but also reflective.

Happy Birtday Mom

Miriam

Greetings from Frankfurt

2006-03-29T17:39:00.000+02:00

It has been years since I have been in Germany and was happy to be able to walk around, explore the strasse (s) and meditate with my friends, the ducks, along the pond. I glanced in windows full of different sausages and pastries (oww, but I was good and only looked), rode the vast train system, got lost…and then back on track…

In all this, a few things have happened while I have been playing. It is said some do not wish the converted Christian man, Abdul Rahman, to leave the country. It is my understanding in my research, and I do not have time to find it again, is that the Prophet, peace be upon him, gave this option, so he can leave. Finally this is a two way street. Many Muslims support the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, as it follows the inner essence of Islam, on the same hand, the relationship between the individual and God needs to be respected. Islam wants converts to the religion, what if we returned to ancient times when apostasy within Christianity and other religions meant death? They would not have converts. Conversion is a step of faith, not fear. Where there is fear, there is not love, and where there is not love, it is the lowest choice under God’s Divine will.

Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights [UDHR,1948] states: “Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance”.

The second thing, I was doing some work and an Arabic show from Saudi came on and I was surprised and ended listening to the whole program. The man was at a conference or something speaking of the Battle of Badr. I will not explain this battle and hesitate that people look it up, because the lecture given today revealed a another perspective to this battle. It showed good adab, mercy, commitment, and different positive attributes including details that I have not seen or read before. The person who delivered this speech applied Islamic peacebuilding and understanding. Towards the end, everyone in the audience had tears, and so did I.

Third thing, Kurdish media (click here) has taken the media challenge to report on positive reconstruction in Iraq. Hats off to them! Additionally, some of the media has aired programs discussing their one sided negative approach to events and reconstruction in Iraq, but have not fully taken the challenge to air shows on the reconstruction. Obviously they are not as advanced as Kurdish media and must analyze the issue to death. Talk is cheap.

I will be on travel the next few weeks, so I beg patience in posting to the blog.

Afghan Christian convert

2006-03-24T18:38:00.000+01:00

Astaghfirullah, Astaghfirullah. This is misinterpretation of Sharia at its worse. There are certain criteria for a judgment concerning the death penalty and this case is extremely questionable.

The Quran does not given any orders for punishment in this world. This is up for God to decide, and it is based on many factors, including recognizing the People of the Book. This man does not threaten or belittle Islam so it would not fall under any other category. Furthermore the man has until judgment day to return to Islam and this issue is private, between him and Allah. It is not for humans to condemn, now or ever, for they do not have access to the Absolute Truth and the inner soul of this man, Abdul Rahman. It is said, if he reverts back, they will forgive him, it is not between him and them, it is between him and God.

They are not God and to make this judgment, is in fact, committing shirk, saying that they are associates of Allah and know the Absolute Truth and have all power to issue this decision and/or forgive. It is saying they know the future and what this man’s faith, deeds, iman and fate is 20 years from now. How can they know this? They can not. Finally, any decisions have ranking of order: Allah, God is always first, the Al Quran, the Sunnah, Hadiths.

Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim
In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate and the Most Merciful

Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from Error: whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold, that never breaks. And Allah heareth and knoweth all things. " Al Quran (2:256)

“Lo! Those who believe this revelation and those who are Jews, and the Sabaeans, and the Christians, and Magians and idolaters- Lo! Allah will decide between them on the Day of Resurrection. Lo! Allah is witness over all things.” Al Qur’an (22:17)

“It is part of the mercy of Allah that thou dost deal gently with them. Wert thou severe or harsh-hearted, they would have broken away from about thee; so pass over (their faults) and ask for Allah’s forgiveness for them; and consult them in affair (of moment). Then, when thou hast taken a decision, put thy trust in Allah, for Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him).”
Al Qur’an (3:159)

"Those who believe, then reject faith, then believe (again) and (again) reject faith, and go on increasing in unbelief,- Allah will not forgive them nor guide them on the way."
Al Qur’an (4:137)

Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a Garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous, Al Quran (3:133)

"O ye who believe! if any from among you turn back from his Faith, soon will Allah produce a people whom He will love as they will love Him,- lowly with the believers, mighty against the rejecters, fighting in the way of Allah, and never afraid of the reproaches of such as find fault. That is the grace of Allah, which He will bestow on whom He pleaseth. And Allah encompasseth all, and He knoweth all things." Al Quran (5:54)

Instead of arresting him and harassing him, they should show loving patience, kindness and gentle transformative dawah.

Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for thy Lord knoweth best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance. Al Qur’an (16:125)

To thee We sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety: so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the Truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have we prescribed a law and an open way. If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single people, but (His plan is) to test you in what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. The goal of you all is to Allah; it is He that will show you the truth of the matters in which ye dispute; Al Qur’an 5:48

This is too short of a post to address the issue thoroughly, but I call for the authorities to release him and those of his family who choose, to a safe country. This is until such time the people, especially those who wish harm on another, have been enlightened to Islam and Allah. Wait for them to surrender to Allah’s will which includes mercy and compassion beyond their limited understanding of such attributes and allow God, not them to be in judgment of others.

The counter to those who choose to take Allah’s job are themselves in danger, by means of shirk. And by the way, Muslims are required to know all the books that came before, including scholars, which means not only reading the Al Torah and the Al Gospels, but fully comprehending the meaning of the texts. Hmmm, many do not realize this. The readings and understanding should be guided by those familiar with the books. For example, look at these following quotes from both the Al Quran and one of the Gospels, it is a referring to justice, cause and effect:

Give full measure when ye measure, and weigh with a balance that is straight: that is the most fitting and the most advantageous in the final determination. Al Quran (17.035)

Give, and it shall be given to you, ...through a fine strainer, ......and shaken and poured overflowing, for you* For by the measure that you measure, ...it shall be measured onto you." Luke 6:38

This is more of a reason fellow humans should not be judging others, especially regarding religion and the death penalty but instead, should be looking in the mirror at themselves. They give out hate, impatience, lack of mercy, and intolerance, it will come back to them at sometime. Pour forth understanding, compassion, respect, patience, humility and this will come back to thee.

Finally, there seems to be religious musical chairs going on today, as it has gone on in the past history, but that is another story…

Good article on the Apostate issue.
http://www.chiesa.espressonline.it/dettaglio.jsp?id=42871&eng=y

Oyster Pearl

2006-03-22T14:38:00.000+01:00

THE PEARL
by Gibran Khalil Gibran
from The Wanderer (1932)

Said one oyster to a neighboring oyster, "I have a very great pain within me. It is heavy and round and I am in distress."

And the other oyster replied with haughty complacence, "Praise be to the heavens and to the sea, I have no pain within me. I am well and whole both within and without."

At that moment a crab was passing by and heard the two oysters, and he said to the one who was well and whole both within and without, "Yes, you are well and whole; but the pain that your neighbor bears is a pearl of exceeding beauty."

By no means shall ye attain righteousness unless ye give (freely) of that which ye love; and whatever ye give, of a truth Allah knoweth it well.
Al Quran (Surah Al 'Imran: 92)

New Iraqi Pearl! Blog: Eye Raki

2006-03-19T16:14:00.000+01:00

Headup on a new blog, Eye Raki. I like the balance and the writing on this blog. There are video and audio links for positive media. http://eyeraki.blogspot.com/2006/03/my-videos.html

Some may think these videos are unrealistic and idealistic, but what I have learned, when we stop dreaming, visioning and hoping, then all the lights go out. So passing one candle to another, we pick each other up and carry on. These videos and audio keep tiny little flames of unity and peace alive.

Nice blog, Eye Raki!

Miriam

Protests for Aid in Halabja Region (Blue Pearl Region)

2006-03-16T16:06:00.000+01:00

Protests for Aid in Halabja Region (Blue Pearl Region)

It is with much sadness, in the news today, there was a violent demonstration which resulted in the Halabja monument being totally destroyed (the pictures above are the ones I took in the region). The people are crying, crying out for help. This is the region of “Blue Pearl.” I will quote from the article….

“AFP stated, "A 14-year-old boy was killed in the clashes as some 7,000 protesters, including relatives of the 5,000 victims of the March 17, 1988 aerial attack, set up road blocks, attacked government offices and set fire to a memorial built to honour the dead."

Rahman, who was not taking part in the demonstration in Halabja, told KurdisMedia.com that whenever there is a protest against their corrupt [Kurdish] authorities, foreign hands are blamed. The Kurdish administration can only see more protests like these, he added. The Kurdish administration use Halabja as business to get more cash, Rahman believes. It was reported by residents of Halabja that 40 students have been arrested and 4 are shot dead by the authorities. However, a local doctor told Radio Nawa that 10 people have been injured, six of them with minor wounds and four are still in the hospital. One body was brought to the hospital; he was shot dead, the doctor told Nawa. He was named by other sources to be Kurda Ahmed.”

This is the region of Blue Pearl, which has been discussed extensively in past posts. It is said the PUK stated this was caused by outside forces, but I doubt this. The region desperately needs additional schools, medical care (resulting from normal medical issues and addressing the left over effects from the chemical weapons, disease such as cholera, eye problems, disabilities from land mines, chemical weapons and a hard life), industry and vocation training and a special focus for aid and redevelopment, including agricultural advances, electric, etc.

This breaks my heart that there has been no progress in Jaf territory. It is a region of many respected Peshmerga and wonderful people. The region includes “Blue Pearl,” Biyara (which was overrun with Taliban style terrorists only a few years ago), Halabja to name a few. On the surface, it is a beautiful region, the figs are the best in the world, the people are beautiful, but underneath, the people need assistance, as much as any of the areas in Iraq. The youth do know they are being neglected and ignored, and this eruption is only the tip of the iceberg.

Back in January, Abdul-Aziz Al-Hakim from SCIRI offered to donate money to build a park. They do not need a park; they need schools, medical care and industry. I ask the officials once again, President Barzani, President Talabani, uncle, on the behalf of the people in this region, please, please let us sit down, make some concrete plans to build schools, improve medical and other basic services, design a regional plan wish would include economic and industrial development.

When I studied under the fellowship, yes, thank you, I am grateful….and went to Kurdistan, I was promised support from the KRG, the KDP and the PUK they would support any work I choose to conduct there. I pointed out this region, as many people have...the needs to top officials and on my blog, which I know is being read. This region has been my heart and focus; I consider the people my family and breathe. The region is crying out for help and continues to be high risk for terrorist activity. There are many organizations including commerce and industry, investors, private citizens and others willing to work with the government in this process. Let us work as a team, devise a strategic plan to help these dear Kurdish people back up on their feet. In turn, Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan would benefit for this investment. It is a guarantee.

Links to Blue Pearl, Halabja and Jaf Region from Pearls of Iraq:

http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/09/photos-halabja.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/09/village-voices-blue-pearl-part-i.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/09/village-voices-blue-pearl-part-ii.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/10/revisiting-blue-pearl.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/10/potpourri.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/09/photos-blue-pearl.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2006/02/bird-flu-and-education.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2006/01/pearls-of-iraq-us-has-end-in-sight-on.html
http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/12/thank-you-mom.html

Links to Halabja News:

After seventeen years people of Halabja are still waiting for justice
http://www.kurdmedia.com/articles.asp?id=10149

Ceremony of Halabja Day cancelled as protest erupts - updated
http://www.kurdmedia.com/news.asp?id=11661

Kurds attack Halabja memorial, govt offices
http://www.kurdmedia.com/news.asp?id=11665

Halabja
http://old.krg.org/reference/halabja/index.asp

Halabja memorial controversy
http://www.kurdmedia.com/articles.asp?id=11659

Iran suspected of backing new suicide attacks
http://web.krg.org/articles/article_detail.asp?ArticleNr=4335&LangNr=12&LNNr=28&RNNr=70

Case Study:The Anfal Campaign, (Iraqi Kurdistan), 1988
http://www.gendercide.org/case_anfal.html

Jiyan, Movie about Halabja (Excellent movie and one of my favorites)
http://www.medyaarts.com/jiyan.htm

Perceptions of our own Reality

2006-03-15T14:10:00.000+01:00

Unnamed poem by Sabri

A woman was waiting at the airport one night,
With several long hours before her flight.
She hunted for a book in the airport shop,
Bought a bag of cookies and found a place to drop.

She was engrossed in her book, but happened to see,
That the man beside her, as bold as could be,
Grabbed a cookie or two from the bag between,
Which she tried to ignore to avoid a scene

She read, munched cookies, and watched the clock,
As the gustly "cookie thief" diminished her stock
She was getting more irritated as the minutes ticked by,
Thinking, "If I wasn't so nice, I'd blacken his eye!"

With each cookie she took, he took one too.
When only one was left, she wondered what he'd do.
with a smile on his face and a nervous laugh,
He took the last cookie and broke it in half.

He offered her half, and he ate the other.
She snatched it from him and thought, "Oh brother,
This guy has some nerve, and he's also so rude,
Why, he didn't even show any gratitude!"

She had never known when she had been so galled,
And sighed with relief when her flight was called.
She gathered her belongings and headed for the gate,
Refusing to look at the "thieving ingrate".

She boarded the plane and sank in her seat,
Then sought her book, which was almost complete.
As she reached in her baggage, she gasped with surprise.
There were her bag of cookies in front of her eyes!

"If mine are here," she moaned with despair.
"Then the others were his and he tried to share!"
Too late to apologize, she realized with grief,
That she was the rude one, the ingrate, the thief!!!!

Breathe of Life

2006-03-06T14:57:00.000+01:00

My postings have slowed due to work related duties, but more importantly, my post graduate research paper. Finally, my paper, Islamic Approaches and Principles of Dialogue is experiencing a third draft. It is breathing and has a strong heart beat. This is the only way to describe the process. From this paper will come a booklet on dialogue for civil society; there is a large amount work ahead for the next two months.

I would like to share with everyone the growing collection of youth related programs being created. It is nice to say, youth related, but in fact, these programs and activities actually are cross-generational. The first was mentioned previously, or hinted at, Drum Circles. Yesterday, I was at an institute and saw an old friend. We sat down and begin talking. She invited me to join her on a Labyrinth walk scheduled for the end of this month. As we discussed the walk in more depth, we both realized this activity could be designed and implemented by young people.

What is a Labyrinth walk? A labyrinth, a circular path used for meditation which is non-denominational, spiritual rather than religious. Some experts date labyrinths back 4,000 years. This will require much research in relation to Islam, as most think of the labyrinth as Christian (specifically Christian mysticism), even though labyrinths exist in different forms outside Christianity including all regions of the world. They are known to exist in Egypt, Syria, Scandinavia, Ireland, across the world. I have seen them but never experienced walking one, preferring to walk in the woods along the river, listening and watching the flow of water throughout the seasons. In a month, I will write a follow up to my experience in this activity and share the research.

Thanks for your patience as I feed my growing baby, the research paper and these other projects.

Links

Wikipedia, Labyrinth: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labyrinth

Labyrinthos: http://www.labyrinthos.net/f_homepage.htm

Labyrinth of Peace (see the different religious symbols, very cool): http://www.hillmans.soupbo.com/bu/peace.html

The Sacred Labyrinth: http://www.angelfire.com/tn/SacredLabyrinth/

US Visa: Plea for Iraqi Grandmother Pearl

2006-02-28T16:44:00.000+01:00

I was thinking about going on sabbatical because of the losing of a person who is very dear to me, as close to the artery in my neck; it has been very difficult situation the past few months. It was a case of a missing person (which is the hardest experience in life) and finally an unhappy outcome last week. In my deepest grief, Anwar shook me out of my grief and wrote to me about one of Our sisters in Iraq who needs surgery, but was denied a visa for medical care and I knew life does not hold sabbaticals for me, she needs help. So..no sabbatical for me, we just have to keep going, somehow, and today it is about Sahira.

Below, I will post the information concerning this tragic situation below, but before that, I would like to write about people in a war zone. When we see the Iraq War many people just see the top surface. I ask the Congress, the White House, the State Department and the Embassies (US Embassy in Jordan, click here) handling visas to go below the surface of the iceberg, we call Iraq.

Below the surface are people, who, on top of having situations and problems directly related to the conflict in Iraq, have personal lives, like we all do, and challenges in life, war or not. I invite everyone today to think of a person, a loved one, a friend, a colleague. Think about them, study their face, their mannerisms; the way they talk and move their hands, the lines by their eyes, the hair by their ears, the twinkle in their eyes. Look at their hands, are they long and artistic? Are they weathered from hard work or cleaning? Do they tilt their head a certain way? We take for granted, those close to us, absorbing everything that makes this person unique, their walk, their smile, how they are when they hear something when they are upset, the position of their lips when thinking.

Families know each other more with this body language and study of face. I always know by listening, my mother’s footstep, it is her special trait, and there is always comfort in this awareness. Now imagine this person gone, for whatever reason. You will never see them again, at least on earth. Imagine never seeing them move their hands, or sneaking a look, or the way they drive, or cook dinner…their voice. The memories of their movements, their face, who they are, these memories are forever imprinted in your mind and heart,and the pain of lost is beyond comprehension.

Sahira Abdul-Wahab Al-Khalidi, a grandmother from Baghdad, is a person loved by her family and friends, who know her mannerisms, her personality, her laughter, and now her tears. She is not just an Iraqi sister, in a conflict zone, but a person with a life challenge, a personal battle. Her family and friends holding on to her, wanting more days with her, to see the lines by her eyes when she laughs, to watch her hands make dinner, to love her.

Although the US government said they were improving the visa processing situation, in fact, many people are denied for very weak reasons. The most used reason is: they may not return to Iraq…the number one reason. Contrary to this, in spite of the war, most people will return. Why? The US government does not understand the culture, because if they did, they would understand that family and community is the most important in the Iraqi culture. Iraq is not like the US and the people are not like Americans. We discussed previously the different cultures. I also think this is just an excuse, as the US borders, north and south have people flooding into the US illegally. Sahira went through proper procedure, the biggest indication that she will return home to her family and friends, her grandchildren.

With that, I ask that people write the US embassy in Jordan, the State Department, their Congressmen/women. Forward or reprint this post throughout the internet. Yes, of course there are people who might like to stay in the US because of the situation in Iraq, why not. But the people who apply for visas under life-threatening medical illness are not the ones the US should be worried about; it is those flooding the border along Mexico. With that said, below are two letters about Sahira, her challenge with cancer and now, her family’s battle to get Sahira proper medical treatment. The “war” in Iraq is not just about armed conflict; it is about personal life struggles and people, our brothers, sisters, our husbands…our grandmothers. Please contact me for any additional information.

Dear Friends,

The US Administration had been claiming loudly that an integral component of the effort to win the war on terror in Iraq is “winning the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people,” which of course is very true. The problem is that in many cases, the Administration is doing exactly the opposite, and shooting itself in the foot.

The Iraqis are treated as pariah by the US consulate in Amman and many other places. No matter that the majority (Kurds, Shias and many Sunnis) were and I dare say still are supporters of the American intervention, it had become easier for the common Iraqi to win the lottery than to obtain a visa to the US. Why not grant visa to the Iraqi, when the applicant proves beyond a shred of doubt that he/she is not a security risk. And, even if some, say 10% attempt to stay in the US, is this a big deal? After all that they are going through, don’t Iraqis deserve a modest consideration in the immigration quota?

Iraqis who visit the US are the most effective public relation medium the US can get and it is free. This medium is far superior in its impact on the hearts and minds than any press, radio or TV campaign the “think tanks’ pundits” can devise.

The letter below is heartbreaking. If you can help in any way, please do. At any rate, pass the word. A momentum needs to be initiated to convince the Administration to ease issuing visas to the Iraqis, (and in the process help itself win the war.)

May God help the Iraqis,
Anwar

February 23, 2006
The Honorable Condoleezza Rice
Secretary of State

RE: Sahira Abdul-Wahab Al-Khalidi

Dear Madam Secretary:

I am an Orthopedic Surgeon and a United States citizen who has lived in the United States since 1962.

My younger sister, Sahira Abdul-Wahab Al-Khalidi, who lives in Baghdad Iraq, has been recently diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor that cannot be treated in Iraq or elsewhere in the Middle East, for lack of technical skills and facilities.

We are blessed in our community to have the equipment and technical know how to treat her condition.

Her application for a medical visa was rejected today by the American Consul in Amman, Jordan (all such visa applications cannot be processed in Baghdad and have to be dealt with in Amman.)

The reason given was that she may not return to Iraq. She is a grandmother with a large family and has every reason to want to go back home. I am willing to give any guarantee needed and would be responsible for her return to Iraq.

Since she is having severe epileptic seizures and her condition is becoming serious, by the day, time is critical.

I plead with you to help spare her life by expediting her getting the medical visa. Your help will be greatly appreciated. Please advise what else we can do to save her life.

Respectfully yours,

Farouq Al-Khalidi, MD

Pearls of Iraq: Are the Drums Silent?

2006-02-23T15:13:00.000+01:00

As I have taken on another project and peacebuilding activity, researching the implementation of drum circles, drumming for peace within the Islamic and interfaith context, I found a song by D. Wharnsby, "Why are the Drums so Silent?" The song can be heard at: http://www.radioislam.com/Melodies/Beat/ . Although they have it under Program 23, click program 24 and you will hear it. Sometimes all the noises in our environment and heads, we forget the simplicity of the beating of our hearts and life.

Why Are the Drums So Silent?
Words and melody: D. Wharnsby
©2000 Enter Into Peace

All the sounds that surrounds us,
all the noises that dumbfound us,
the clatter and the clamor of the clutter of our lives.
Cars and streets make silence shatter,
idle minds fill up with idle chatter,
if we fill our void that’s all that matters.

Why are the drums so silent?
Why can’t we hear the rhythm? What’s wrong with you and I?
Why are the drums so silent?
Why can’t we hear the rhythm from the heals of believers
marching to the garden as they strive?

We’ve digitized The Revelation.
Does our rehearsed recitation
go any deeper than our throats?
Our calls to prayer seem to rise up to the sky,
conferences and lectures, seminars for you and I,
the words that blow away with a nasheed that make us cry yet,

Why are the drums so silent?
Why can’t we hear the rhythm? What’s wrong with you and I?
Why are the drums so silent?
Why can’t we hear the rhythm from the heals of believers
marching to the garden as they strive?

If we can just be brave enough to be each other’s mirror
we may finally recognize the face of conscience that we fear.
And if we take the time to mute the noise we’ve built around ourselves
the rhythm of the heartbeats and the purpose may be clear,

If we beat the drum… (a whisper of peace…)
Beat the drum… (moving through the land…)
Beat the drum…

If we beat the drums of hope and faith
we will all fall into rhythm, I have faith in you and I.
If we beat the drums of hope and faith, then we will feel the rhythm
from our footsteps and our striving,
marching to the garden as we try.

Marching to the garden as we die.

Pearls of Iraq: Part Five - Islamic Peacebuilding

2006-02-20T15:01:00.000+01:00

This is a continuing series on Islamic Educational Peacebuilding Initiatives in Iraq. We continue with the prospect of developing a school focused on Islamic peacebuilding, dialogue and justice, including nonviolence.

The following goes into Islamic approach to dialogue, although I am updating and rewriting this section for a paper and books concerning intra and interfaith dialogue. It gives the general idea for now. This has been my post graduate research the past few years and it should be completed including a booklet/guide for civil society in four languages, by the end of May.

Islamic Approach to Dialogue

Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for thy Lord knoweth best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance.
Al Qur’an. Surah 16.125

Currently there is ongoing research on the different Islamic types of dialogue. In fact, the author of this paper is currently working on a research project addressing this area of study. The purpose of the project is to define an Islamic approach to dialogue, Al-hewar and At-tahâwur, by studying applicable Islamic principles found in the Qu’ran and Sunnah, supplemented with interviews involving scholars -- including Sufis -- and leaders of the Kurdish people. Differences between Al-hewar, At-tahâwur, Al-jadal, Al-jidâl and Al-mirâ are being analyzed. Techniques utilizing Islamic principles applied to genuine dialogue (Al-hewar and At-tahâwur) may enhance dialogic skills and can be employed as a peacebuilding tool.

This research includes extensive study of the oral traditions (new and old) which are utilized as a form of communication within the Kurdish community. Analysis between Islamic approaches and principles to dialogue and traditional Kurdish oral traditions and their interactions are being explored.

Research and development of Islamic approaches to dialogue can facilitate improved interactions within Muslim community, cross-culturally and between religions. Globalization has the possibility to cause misperceptions in communications if not approached correctly. Effective dialogue has the potential to reduce misunderstanding and reduce or prevent multi-level conflicts. Study of the Islamic texts and fieldwork concerning dialogue within the Islamic culture yields an exceptional educational resource available for which will have benefits beyond the intra-Islamic culture. The possible benefits of applying Islam to dialogue are many, and further research is warranted.

Education and utilization of Islamic dialogue at the grassroots level are both helpful to personal and community transformation sustaining a peaceful, co-existent society. Currently, there are few resources or researchers addressing Islam and dialogue, so there is much work to be contributed in this field. The research will result in publications to assist people multi-religiously in understanding communication within an Islamic cultural context. It is the author’s hope to research and study dialogue with the other cultures and religions in Iraq to include the Tashayyu (Shia Muslims), Sunnis, Assyrians, Chaldeans, Mandeans and other religious/ ethnic minorities.

An example of misperception is the word “dialogue”. This word is used too freely in the global world and has different meanings in Islam and “Non-Western” cultures. Dialogue has up to 5 meanings (or possibly more) as discussed briefly in the Executive Summary. When attending a dialogue activity, the parties may go into dialogue with different perceptions, agendas and expectations based on their individual understanding of the word “dialogue”. One party may be expecting al-hewar transformation thought exchange and the other party is expecting al-jadal style dialogue, a logistical debate. This can cause frustration and lowered positive interaction when the meanings conflict. Still others, including top and middle level may confuse dialogue with meditation or negotiation. This has been the case recently with global events. Dialogue is not negotiation but a path to come to a new understanding with respect and fresh solutions based on interests rather than positions.

Iraq Reconstruction and Agricultural Delegation

2006-02-18T16:01:00.000+01:00

I have been out of town this week hosting an Iraqi delegation to the World Agricultural show in California. The delegation came to the show for the purpose of learning about new agriculture technology including machinery, irrigation systems and business diversification. As you can imagine, I was happy as a lark to be with my Iraqis, at their service. The delegation was a mix, representing all the different groups in Iraq and there was camaraderie within the delegation. This proves, once people put aside positions and concentrate on shared interests and goals, conflict falls to the side.

Originally 47 Iraqis applied for visas to attend the show, only 17 were approved. All were business people. There were over 60 countries in attendance and the International Business Center staff at the show was extremely helpful including making us all feel welcome. I talked with representatives from other countries and they had the same visa issues. The State Department as of last year was in reorganization concerning its delegation and group visa department…I think they need to review it again or they are issuing visas on an allotment, which they should state this up front.

Regardless, the delegation spent three days at the show, including a special Iraqi reception. This is all part of the reconstruction and investment on the part of the private sector.

I challenged the media to report on the Iraqi delegation and the reconstruction effort by announcing a press conference at the show … many TV, Radio and newspapers showed up. Perhaps we should announce more press conferences, hahaha.

Coming from a rural background myself, it was understandable the majority of attendees were farmers and agricultural businesses. What was wonderful was the outpouring of interest and support for our delegation and there were many dialogues and discussions between the US farmers, businesses and our delegation. We need more exchanges like this.

http://www.fresnobee.com/local/story/11809085p-12525903c.html

One Thousand Cranes by O'Connell & Freeman

2006-02-12T13:55:00.000+01:00

One Thousand Cranes by O'Connell & Freeman is based on “this song was inspired by the story of Sadako whose prayers for peace made the "crane" an international symbol of peace” http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/oconnellnfreeman

A child sits in stillness,
looking out of a window and sees no future.
She feels her life slip away like sand... through fingers of time.
War leaves a poison long after all the bombs have fallen...
The child dreams of peace and folds another paper crane.

One Thousand Cranes fold our fragile lives
Into the shelter of your wild wings
One Thousand Cranes carry these prayers for peace
And over wounded waters... spread your wings and fly away.

A mother counts her days on a doorstep,
deep inside her shadow.
Years of war have left no grace and her breasts are dry...
She dreams of a place
where the winds blows free through a field of flowers
Within her silence one can hear the fullness of her cry.

One Thousand Cranes fold our fragile lives
Into the shelter of your wild wings
One Thousand Cranes carry these prayers for peace
And over wounded waters... spread your wings and fly away.

An old man sits alone holding close his tarnished medals...
The days of his life pass behind his weary eyes.
From the mist of old memories,
steps out a young and a handsome soldier
He’s eager to serve but so unaware of war's deadly price.

One Thousand Cranes fold our fragile lives
Into the shelter of your wild wings
One Thousand Cranes carry these prayers for peace
And over wounded waters... spread your wings and fly away.

One Thousand Cranes, fly…fly, oh fly away up to the sky, take these folded prayers
And fly, fly…fly
Fly, fly away, fly away, fly away,
Fly away

Iraq: A Letter from the Prophet Muhammad to the Assyrian Christians

2006-02-09T13:41:00.000+01:00

Qualified Islamic scholars and the Assyrian/Chaldeans acknowledge the authenticity of this letter, also known as the Charter of Protection. The past eight years I have brought this letter to the top Islamic scholars, they read it and are quiet in reflections, and all have said yes, this is a recognized letter from the Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him. It jolts us all to the reality concerning the current events surrounding the Iraqi Christians, including recent bombings of the churches.

Less knowledgeable Muslims and imams, like those in Mosul have issued fatwas against the Assyrian/Chaldean Christians based solely on misperceptions and illogical links to the controversial caricatures of the Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him and also Western Christians. First, the Assyrian/Chaldeans have absolutely nothing to do with the caricatures or the EU and the US. Second, the Christians of the East feel abandoned by Christians around the world. Outside an occasional burst of protest about their continued persecution in Iraq, there has been little serious aid or support. Many of the Iraqi Christians have fled to Syria because this is the only door open to them for safety. The US and EU has made it so difficult to immigrant, under religious persecution and now Syria is becoming a hotbed for conflict.

Finally, and most importantly, the Assyrian/Chaldean Christians are one of the earliest Christians, the indigenous people of Iraq. Yes. Their language still remains Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, Isa (in Arabic). In 33 A.D. (4783) Assyrians (of the Nineveh plain) became one the first “nations” to convert to Christianity and the Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian Church of the East is founded by Thomas, Theodos and Bartholomew. The Assyrians date back before 5000 AD and at one point controlled a large part of the Middle East. So yes, they truly are the original people of the Nineveh plain, and wish to have a protected autonomous region, which I agree with under the circumstances. Why must they flee the land that has been their home for 7,000 years?

Some people, in ignorance think they have the authority to issue fatwahs, when in fact, they do not, especially against the Christians of Iraq. In doing so, they have directly opposed the Prophet Mohammed’s direct orders of protection for the people. To give a little bit of background on the letter, it is known the Prophet traveled to Syria with his uncle, Abu Talib, and had the hospitality of a Christian monk named Sargis Bkheera, or sometimes spelled, Buhayra or Bahira. Some scholars want to dispute this, argue all they may, the Islamic community has documented this trip and the monk is recognized by a majority of Islamic scholars. It is said that the monk recognized the boy, Mohammed as a future prophet and certainly during their stay with the monk, dialogue did take place.

Furthermore, the Charter of Protection was reminded to the people in Baghdad by Muktafi II, Caliph of Baghdad in 1138 AD. This knowledge, the degree by the Prophet Muhammed, peace be upon him, must be again reminded to all people, especially in Iraq. There shall be no dispute or argument. Under the letter are available links, others are outdated. Even though my other computers are down, I always have saved this to an external storage source, perhaps making sure, in my own way and for myself really in times like these, that the reminder of precious document not be lost.

The community of Assyrian/Chaldeans in Iraq has not done anything to deserve the wrath they are experiencing today and must be protected.

A Letter from the Prophet Muhammad To The Assyrian Christians

"God has told me in a vision what to do, and I confirm His command by giving my solemn promise to keep this agreement."

"To the followers of the Islam I say: Carry out my command, protect and help the Nazarene nation in this country of ours in their own land. Leave their places of worship in peace; help and assist their chief and their priests when in need of help, be it in the mountains, in the desert, on the sea, or at home. Leave all their possessions alone, be it houses or other property, do not destroy anything of their belongings, the followers of Islam shall not harm or molest any of this nation, because the Nazarenes are my subjects, pay tribute to me and will help the Muslims. No tribute, but what is agreed upon, shall be collected from them, their church buildings shall be left as they are, they shall not be altered, their priests shall be permitted to teach and worship in their own way-the Nazarenes have full liberty of worship in their churches and homes. None of their churches shall be torn down, or altered into a mosque, except by the consent and free will of the Nazarenes. If any one disobeys this command, the anger of God and His Prophet shall be upon him."

"The tribute paid the Nazarenes shall be used to promote the teachings of Islam and shall be deposited at the treasury of Beth Almal. A common man shall pay one denar (piece of money), but the merchants and people who own mines of gold and silver and are rich shall pay twelve denars. Strangers and people who have no houses or other settled property shall not have taxes levied upon them. If a man inherits property he shall pay a settled sum to the Baitulmal treasury. The Christians are not obliged to make war on the enemies of Islam, but if an enemy attacks the Christians, the Muslims shall not deny their help, but give them horses and weapons, if they need them, and protect them from evils from outside and keep the peace with them. The Christians are not obliged to turn Muslims, until God's will makes them believers."

"The Muslims shall not force Christian women to accept Islam, but if they themselves wish to embrace it, the Muslims shall be kind to them."

"If a Christian woman is married to a Muslim and does not want to embrace Islam, she has liberty to worship at her own church according to her own religious belief, and her husband must not treat her unkindly on account of her religion. If any one disobeys this command, he disobeys God and his prophet and will be guilty of a great offense."

"If the Nazarenes wish to build a church, their Muslim neighbors shall help them. This shall be done, because the Christians have obeyed us and have come to us and pleaded for peace and mercy."

"If there be among the Christians a great and learned man the Muslims shall honor him and not be envious of his greatness."

"If any one is unjust and unkind to the Christians he will be guilty of disobeying the Prophet of God."

"The Christians should not shelter an enemy of Islam or give him horse, weapon or any other help. If a Muslim is in need the Christian shall for three days and nights be his host and shelter him from his enemies. The Christians shall, furthermore, protect the Mohammedan women and children and not deliver them up to the enemy or expose them to view. If the Nazarenes fail to fulfil these conditions, they have forfeited their right to protection, and the agreement is null and void."

"This document shall be intrusted to the Christian chief and head of their church for safe keeping."

Here follows the signatures of Muhammad and his foremost Companions:

"Signatures. Abubakr Zadik Omar Ben Chetab Moavijah Ibn Abi Sofijan Abu Darda Abuzar Abubra Abdula Ibn Masud Abdulah Ibn Abas Hamza Ibn Almulabb Fazl Ibn Abas Zaibar Ibn Aqam Tilha Ibn Abdullah Saad Ben Maaz Saad Ibn Ebadah Sabeh Ibn Kebis Jazid Ibn Sabid Abdullah Ben Jazid Suhail Ibn Mifah Othman Ibn Mazum David Ibn Gijah Abu Alalijah Abdullah Ibn Omar Alqazi Abu Harifah Ibn Azir Ibn Rabiah Ebar Ibn Jaamir Hashim Ibn Azijah Hasan Ibn Zabid Kab Ibn Kab Kab Ibn Malech Jafar Ibn Abu Falib."
"The peace of God be over them all! This agreement is written by Moavijah Ben Sofian, according to the dictates of Muhammad , the Messenger of God, in the 4th year of the Hegira in the city of Medina."

(This letter was originally found at http://www.atour.com/~history/700/20001011a.html which is down now)

Additional Links:
www.nestorian.org/a_charter_of_protection.html (in English and Arabic)
http://www.islamic-paths.org/home/english/Muhammad/Other/Charter_Christians.htm

Islam Prohibits Collective Punishment

2006-02-08T12:50:00.000+01:00

Access for a few moments to a computer, yeah! I came across this excellent article concerning the caricatures.

Islam Prohibits Collective Punishment

There is an ocean of difference, between seriously addressing the insulting caricatures slandering Muslims as terrorists and painting Islam with one hateful brush by associating this great religion with terrorism and the hysteria of extremists that seems to be portrayed in the media as if it were an accurate representation of mainstream Islam.

From almost one billion and half Muslims in the world, thousands protesting in Cairo, hundreds in Yemen, thousands in Gaza, hundreds in Iran, thousands in Indonesia, hundreds in London, thousands in Beirut, hundreds in Damascus, thousands in Pakistan, hundreds in Kuwait, hundreds in Iraq, none in Saudi Arabia, none in Libya, none in the Sudan, none in Jordan, none in Tunisia, none in Oman, none in Algeria, none in Malaysia, and none in Morocco, etc. etc. Almost all pictures of protesters are zoomed in on someone burning badly painted Danish flag, someone stepping on a flag, some screaming faces, or some angry few with guns or machetes running in some aimless direction, seemingly willing to kill anyone the may encounter. That is the picture through which Westerners were told, by the media, how Muslims react when their religion is insulted.

There is obviously a picture that the media is trying to paint of Muslims being masses of ignorant, emotional, irrational, unreasonable idiots who call for the punishment of an entire nation for the actions of a few. There will never be a shortage of such idiots in any nation, Denmark included, and the media will continue to exploit them due to its endless hunger for sensationalism. What adds fuel to the fire is the fact that Arab and Muslim dictatorial regimes are leading the hysteria against Denmark for obvious reason; it focuses attention away from their failures.

There can be no doubt that the caricatures were insulting, and those who made the decision to publish them should be dealt with in a rational, legal, and civilized manner. They can be taken to Court for inciting hate against an identifiable group (i.e. Muslims). They can be sued for damages of hundreds of millions of Euros by Muslim groups and associations in Denmark and elsewhere. They can be driven to isolation through a calculated approach of exposing them for who they are; ignorant individuals who are filled with hate. Their hate can be countered by a campaign of educating the public, in Denmark and elsewhere about Islam and Muslims. There are several ways of dealing with this situation in a calm, calculating, and effective manner that would have yielded positive results. To say that taking to the streets, burning flags, damaging buildings, destroying public and private property, causing the death of people in Afghanistan, inciting violence against Danes and other Europeans, and calling for a collective punishment against the entire nation of Denmark is an overreaction, would be the understatement of the century.

That overreaction, to put it extremely mildly, is far more damaging to Islam and Muslims than the caricatures that caused it ever were. Islam introduced to humanity the sophisticated concept of rejecting Collective punishment. Muslim scholars all throughout the history of this great religion argued against it. The Quran states in Ayah 18 Surat Fatter 35:

“Nor can a bearer of burdens bear another’s burden,”

thereby making it clear to all Muslims that collective punishment is absolutely prohibited. To each his/her burden, and no one carries the burden of others. Yet, in a clear defiance of God’s direct, explicit, and unambiguous command, some Muslims call for a collective punishment of an entire nation for the actions of a few of its citizens. That type of hysteria must be rejected outright by Muslims, and must never be allowed to stand as representing the manner in which Muslims react when insulted, no matter how big such insult might be.

Cooler heads must prevail, and Muslim intellectuals and sober thinkers must, with reason and calm arguments, seize the agenda back from the hands of the extremist few who appear to have convinced the media that they were successful in hijacking Islam. We can start by demanding from those dictatorial regimes in some Arab and Muslim countries that are leading this “Newly Found Jihad” against Denmark and its cheese producers to leave the Danes alone, concentrate on providing the badly needed health and social services for their own citizens, embrace democratic reforms in their own countries, and improve the lives of their own nationals.

Monzer Zimmo
Internet source unidentified

Two Computers Down

2006-02-07T12:54:00.000+01:00

Well, my two computers are in the shop for repairs and I am waiting for a new modem/router so I will be in retreat for the next week. I will post as access becomes available.

Bird Flu Update in Iraq Kurdistan

2006-02-05T12:01:00.000+01:00

With little information coming out of Iraq Kurdistan concerning the bird flu, it is appreciated to see some information. Kamal Mirawdeli wrote an article about the bird flu and other issues beseeching the Kurdish people. As I do not get political, I will not comment on most of the article; I believed it covered too many issues at once.

I had the opportunity back this past fall to meet the Minister of Health in Sulaimaniya and my person opinion was that he seemed competent, but even the most competent “leaders” in normal situations may fall short during crisis, from their own decisions or from external misinformation, pressure and influences. As we know now, during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina there was and perhaps still is disorganization, poor decisions, misinformation, etc. I will point out, although the Ministry of Health has made great strives in training and updating the healthcare system in the region, but they are still far behind. One example I pointed out to the Ministry after spending a day at a hospital was the issue of unprotected shoes in the OR. The personnel were required before going into the unit to change from their street shoes to clogs which just happened to be mixed with the street shoes. On top of this, these clogs were communal, except the few who brought their own… Once they go into the unit, they are free to walk around, including the bathroom (eastern) and then go into the OR without sterilized shoe covers.

The answer to this question was yes, this was not appropriate protocol but they do not have shoe covers. Then we discussed the ideal solution. Encourage health care supply and distribution industries to open shop in Iraq which would provide for the hospitals, generate jobs and foster a sustainable economy. I am working on this second part professionally.

The second topic was the healthcare system in Iraq and Iraq Kurdistan have requested additional visiting doctors and healthcare professions to come and teach, present updated information, even for a week. I know this personally, but some international organizations do not wish to send people at this time. There have been medical delegations and the US military medical units who have been conducting trainings in Iraq. There are safe zones in Iraq and the international medical community would be wise to send people to train and evaluate.

Back to the bird flu before my temper rises, this is a very serious issue in Iraq Kurdistan and in fact the entire region without consideration to borders and nation states. I am surprised the major media networks have not covered it with deep concern (maybe they are barred from footage or information). I consider Sulaimaniya my home and it is very difficult to be away from my home especially during this crisis. Kamal reports the following:

"Today the story is different. Bird flu epidemic is gripping Kurdistan. Two other people have already died; four are under intensive care. Until yesterday the minister of health was talking about 18 people being isolated for the suspicion of the disease. Today, according to DPA news “a fresh bird flu scare has erupted in the Kurdish region in northern Iraq with reports of 162 suspected cases almost two weeks after a 15-year-old girl died of the deadly strain.” The report adds that the head of pre-emption committee in the Kurdistan Province Najm Mohammad has asserted to al-Hayat newspaper that the virus has proliferated throughout Rania, a region southwest of al-Sulaymania on the border with Turkey, and described the influx as a "crisis."

In fact, a few days ago the number of reported cases was around 156 people, I believe this number is in fact, much higher. Call it intuition, the same as last October when we saw a dark cloud over the area concerning the bird flu and a possible epidemic. In this region, the people seem to suffer over the years from unknown mini “fever” spells frequently. I do not have an answer on this malaise but currently those people with “fever” spells may not have the typical fever.

The other issue in the article is the late availability of funds which were requested months ago. Kamal writes, “The most important response I read to the risks of the spread of the disease from neighbouring North Kurdistan was a decision by Sulaymaniya administration to allocate 850,000 dollars for the efforts to prevent the spread of the disease in the region! Yes, 850,000 dollars! But whether even this amount is truly allocated and how it would be spent, can be anyone’s guess. This, however, shows again the degree of lack of interest in the death of people, social issues and any sense of responsibility and accountability.”

Back in the fall with an NGO, we devised a public health education program for the villages. The amount of money to carry out this program was a drop in the bucket, literally, with step up plans to include training for rural healthcare facilities and agricultural centers. The initial program was public health education with the support and consultation of medical and agricultural professionals from both sides of the ocean. All that was required with the initial program was a dedicated vehicle, gas (which is expensive), printing costs for flyers, and small salaries for the local NGO staff (some of us were to volunteer our time) to go out to the villages.

Give me a tiny drop of the budget, I will gather my people and head out (Mom cover your ears and eyes). What is more important at this point is accurate reporting and updated information from WHO, the CDC and the medical community on a daily basis. Why are they so quiet? WHO stated they could not get there quickly, excuse me, but that is not true. They can fly a charter into the area. Now, it is beyond a simple public health educational strategy (although this still needs to be carried out). Furthermore there are continued outbreaks in SE Asia which must not be forgotten. There is a growing concern, one which can affect the world.

For more information on the Avian Influenza
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/avian_faqs/en/index.html#control

Miriam

Bird Flu and Education

2006-02-03T19:34:00.000+01:00

I have received emails from a diversity of sources updating me on the bird flu situation in Iraq and others asking me to discuss this issue. First, Turkey had an outbreak of bird flu back in October and this issue was a huge concern in Iraq Kurdistan at that time. Efforts, as best they could be implemented to safe guard the borders, were taken.

This is not new news but spreading news. The birds do not know there are nation states, such as Turkey, Armenia, Kurdistan, Iran, Ukraine, etc; they land where they will, sick. They do not require visas or checkpoints.

Although we can not control the air, we could have provided the education, especially agricultural education including disinfectant and training which was requested back in September, October and the past few years. Someone left a comment about Blue Pearl’s proposed school, “Anonymous said... HOW BOUT NOOOOOOO.” Well this is the whole point and it is manifesting. Everyone is NOT a PhD and programs needed serve both educationally, vocationally and adult training on a civil society level. Schools like the one proposed which serves a region, not just a village, are not just any schools but what we call “model schools” which serve the students, the community and the region. The schools are academic-vocational. This could include learning how to build basketball hoops and thus starting a business. In this case, various vocations but the primary is agriculture.

Additionally, going out to the borders of Iraq/Iran, we have looked at the situation in this region. Additional medical education and healthcare support was advised. It all comes down to funding. Keep your eyes on the news. A case of the butterfly effect.

Finally, people may ask, why a small swimming pool. Where I live in the US they just opened another multi million dollar water complex in the county (we already have 4 public and many private). Blue Pearl is located in a region that has suffered under wars, landmines and gassing, genocide. There are higher levels of disabled people, including children for which water therapy does help with the joints and keeping the muscle supple and strong. They dreamed of a small pool for swim lessons and therapy for the school and the region. It is a dream but then so is the school. They would be happy with just the school.

Finally, for today, requesting a handicapped bathroom? Yes, all funding from the USAID and foreign countries require new buildings (and most renovated ones) handicapped facilities and they need it desperately in Iraq. Thank goodness for the policy.
http://www.usaid.gov/about/disability/2ar_imp_policy.html

As more detailed information becomes available, I will update.

IRAQI “BLUE PEARL’S” WISH LIST FOR SCHOOL

2006-02-02T08:19:00.000+01:00

No, I have not forgotten about Blue Pearl and in fact, going through my various notebooks, organizing, I found their wish list from my handwritten notes and want to post it. If you read carefully, the Iraqis and the Iraqi Kurds desire the same basic educational needs for their children. Close your eyes and these could be parents anywhere in the world, just wanting a facility for their children, a secondary school which would serve 20 villages.

Wish List for School

• 15 Classrooms (2 larger classrooms, one with internet and Audio/Visual abled for both secondary and adult training and cross-cultural communications, perhaps with a sister city type program)
• Large All-Purpose room with kitchen attached (For school and community events including winter sports, meals, meetings and emergency shelter…if need be)
• Separate boys and girls bathrooms with 2 showers in each bathroom
• Dedicated Handicapped Bathroom with raised western toilet and appropriate room and hardware - custom designed
• Administrative offices including small faculty staff room for meetings
• Library (and books!)
• Computer room (can be in a section of the library)
• Garden area with picnic tables and small extension/experimental farm for agricultural and other sciences
• Sport Fields – Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, small pool for swim lessons, physical therapy and recreation
• 4-6 teachers houses (3-4 teachers in each house during the week)
• Solar Power – alternative supplemental energy sources for when the electric goes out (which is a lot) and for heat/cooling

The villagers and leaders also talked, with a vision and dream in their eyes, of a community center. For now, the school can be designed as a community center for the 20 villages and later expanded. There is a small healthcare clinic being built which will be within walking distance of the school.

The land is protected, the children would be safe. It is a working agricultural farm with orchards and sheep and they are experimenting with different crops and fruits. They have dug good wells and....the figs are the best in the entire world!!

Miriam

Poetry Pearls

2006-02-01T20:08:00.000+01:00

Gazel

O thou Perfect Being, Source whence wisdom's mysteries arise;
Things, the issue of thine essence, show wherein thy nature lies.
Manifester of all wisdom, thou art he whose pen of might
Hath with rays of stars illumined yonder gleaming page, the skies.
That a happy star, indeed, the essence clear of whose bright self
Truly knoweth how the blessings from thy word that flow to prize.
But a jewel flawed am faulty I: alas, forever stands
Blank the page of my heart's journal from thought of thy writing wise.
In the journal of my actions Evil's lines are black indeed;
When I think of Day of Gathering's terrors, blood flows from my eyes.
Gathering of my tears will form a torrent on the Reckoning Day,
If the pearls, my tears, rejecting, he but view them to despise:
Pearls my tears are, O Fuzuli, from the ocean deep of love;
But they're pearls these, oh! most surely, that the Love of Allah buys!

---Fuzuli

PEARLS
by geoffrey c. allerton

A world full of human pearls,
shining a bright light,
so we can all sleep peacefully at night,
harmonic harmony,
through out the land,
a brand new language,
everyone can understand,
all classes rolled into one,
all happy,
all circling the sun.

Millions of pearls,
floating in space,
a contamination of the human race,
but this contamination would be kind,
it would make the human kind,
kind.

Broken pearls,
spatter and part,
breaking the human race apart,
a string of pearls are us all,
tied together in love,
for evermore.

Pearls of Iraq: Iraq PCO Weekly Update, January 28, 2006

2006-01-28T15:54:00.000+01:00

Every week, Friday or Saturday I will continue to challenge the media to report PCO’s Iraqi reconstruction achievements and link to the weekly updates. This week, I had a minor intimate engagement with the steps and a wall in my home. Thank goodness to 911, a service taken for granted.. I am ok, but a bit sore...so this will be short. Please forgive me.

911 Coverage for Residents in the Baghdad Province
Under the reconstruction quick facts it is stated that the Baghdad Province now has high tech data and voice system with Advanced First Responder. This is great and now we need to continue to support refurbishing the hospitals, making sure they have the medicine and supplies they need including medical equipment, updated medical education for the nursing staff and doctors and find a way to keep the medical professionals pearls in Iraq.

Baby Pearls Hospital
In Mosul, a new maternity hospital renovated from a hotel, has opened. The Baquba Maternity Hospital holds 229 beds. God bless the children of this world.

Cheering the visiting Polish Troops Pearls
Included in the reconstruction efforts are the Polish troops. In the report this week, there is a great story of the love between the Polish troops and a dilapidated school. They renovated the school and supplied tables, desks, blackboards and yes, air conditioning.

The Challenge: I challenge a major network to produce a weekly 30 minute program on the PCO projects. I challenge major and local newspapers to provide, free of charge, donated “white space”, meaning pages, to print these updates every week. Challenge your favorite TV networks and newspapers. Challenge your local radio stations to provide a 7 minute focused update. Dare them to cover these projects! I bet the media would find interested sponsors for this type of programming. It should be prime time. The people want to know and deserve to know where their tax money is going and how it is being used.

www.export.gov/iraq/pdf/pco_update_012506.pdf

Pearls of Iraq: Part Four - Islamic Peacebuilding

2006-01-26T04:15:00.000+01:00

This is a continuing series on Islamic Educational Peacebuilding Initiatives in Iraq. We continue with the prospect of developing a school focused on Islamic peacebuilding, dialogue and justice, including nonviolence. I would like to add there are many people across the global working on Islamic approaches to peace and dialogue, but…but their voices are not heard.

Islamic Approach to Dialogue, Nonviolence and Peacebuilding

But if the enemy incline towards peace, do thou (also) incline towards peace, and trust in Allah: for He is One that heareth and knoweth (all things).
Al Qur’an. Surah 8:61

The question is… are traditional Western methods enough, especially in a culture that is not “Western?” Obviously, the answer is NO. What is needed both domestically and internationally is further understanding and application of the positive and useful principles of Islam. Many applications being taught now are methods developed over the years by mostly Westerners. While these have been very helpful and beneficial, they cannot completely address conflict in a traditional, High Context culture; especially in an Islamic society.

George Irani in his article “Islamic Mediation Techniques for Middle East Conflict” provides a strong argument for applying Islamic principles to conflict in addition to traditional Western methods. “Conflict resolution is viewed by many as a false Western panacea, a program imposed from outside and thus insensitive to indigenous problems, needs, and political processes.” He goes on to give example of Islamic mediation:

The Middle Eastern rituals of sulh (settlement) and musalaha (reconciliation) are alternative and indigenous forms of conflict control and reduction. The sulh ritual, which is an institutionalized form of conflict management and control, has its origins in tribal and village contexts. "The sulh ritual stresses the close link between the psychological and political dimensions of communal life through its recognition that injuries between individuals and groups will fester and expand if not acknowledged, repaired, forgiven and transcended.”

According to Islamic Law (Shari'a), "the purpose of sulh is to end conflict and hostility among believers so that they may conduct their relationships in peace and amity....In Islamic law, sulh is a form of contract ('akd), legally binding on both the individual and community levels."

Approaching a conflict, dialogue or preventative peacebuilding initiatives in an Islamic culture without an Islamic element will not be fully accepted and sustainable. Many of the Western approaches have a secular, non-religious base, separating justice from peace. Islam has an integrated system in which justice and peace are part of a religious, communal and socio-political system. Additionally, other religions have taken an interest in these Islamic principles for greater understanding of Islam and to provide understanding of these cultural differences.

Mohammad Abu-Nimer addresses this issue, “there is an abundance of cultural and religious indigenous practices and values in Muslim communities that can be drawn upon in designing models of intervention to promote social and political change and development; there is no need to mechanically import Western-based models. Western models may at best produce a short-term outcome, but in the long term cannot be expected to take root in the life of the community.”

We will next explore the five Islamic peace paradigms.

Islamic Peace Paradigms

On that account: We ordained for the Children of Israel that if any one slew a person - unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land - it would be as if he slew the whole people: and if any one saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people.
Al Qur’an. Surah 5:32

The key in the above quote from the Holy Qur’an is “all of humanity”. Islam represents the unity of humanity, a community of creation, created by the Creator, Allah. More importantly to Islam is the word and concept of tawhid – Divine Unity, and the awareness of the “unity of being” (wahdat al-wujud). Three facets of the Tawhid are: Tawhid ar-Rububiyya, Tawhid al-Asma wa as-Sifat and Tawhid al-ibada.

Tawhid ar-Rububiyya is described as that which only Allah designs and nourishes his Creation, the universe. Without his will, creation could not continue to exist. Tawhid al-Asma wa as-Sifat translates as, “declaring God One in His names and Attributes." There are traditionally 99 “Beautiful Names” denoting Supreme Attributes describing God, who truly is indescribable, “Allah! there is no god but He! To Him belong the Most Beautiful Names” (The Holy Qur’an 20:8). Although the 99 Names are the ones traditionally used in prayers and meditations, it is obvious that God is without limitation, so conceivably there are more than 99 Beautiful Names. All are extinguished in the Essence of The One.

The last Tawhid, Tawhid al-ibada, points out that Allah alone is the Only One worthy of our worship. This can be seen in the Holy Qur’an’s statement, “I have created not the jinn and men except that they should worship Me (Alone). I seek not any provision from them nor do I ask that they should feed Me. Verily, Allâh is the All-Provider, Owner of Power, the Most Strong.” (The Holy Qur’an 51:56-58)

Tawhid exemplifies the unity of creation with Allah in the Islamic Ummah, a community and a living, multi-personal organism that is interconnected and interdependent. There is a complex, multi-level integrated system of values and universal virtues within the Ummah. These include human rights, prosperity, social, political and reconciliation, including peaceful co-existence.

Once more I will refer to Abdul Said and his work on Islamic Peace Paradigms in a very brief summary as each of the five Islamic approaches to Peace is a full study and dissertation unto itself. The five Islamic peace paradigms are Power Politics, World Order, Communal Conflict Resolution, Nonviolence and Sufism.

Power Politics uses Islam to “Legitimize power and authority, and to preserve social order.” Simply, peace is a state of being in the absence of war. It is further explained, “Critics, of course, may be quick to note that basic concepts, such as “interest,” are easily manipulated to justify abuses of power. They may also point out that, in an environment of power politics, Islam often becomes a means to an end rather than an end in itself.” The Shari’a is used to counter abuse of power and to protect society and human rights, although in some regiments this is overlooked.

World Order Islamic approach is a philosophy base on an Islamic way of life. This paradigm supports the aim for co-existence and goes beyond power politics, “As a paradigm, the Islamic world order approach challenges the idolatry of state and tribe, points beyond power politics and affirms the need for cooperative and participatory political processes that can secure the well-being of the Islamic umma (community) and the larger community of humanity.” This approach explores innovative models, “that combine democratic governance, equitable development, and cultural and religious values.”

The third paradigm, Communal Conflict Resolution is important. This deals with conflict and reconciliation on the ground level, the grassroots. Preservation of Islamic and local cultural approaches to peace, reconciliation and mediation among interpersonal, inter-group relations is imperative to peace. Abdul Said uses the following examples, “These contexts include the Lebanese civil war and the Palestinian struggle for self-determination. Palestinians seeking to strengthen their civil society at a time of great turmoil have established conflict resolution centers in Bethlehem (Wi’am – Palestinian Conflict Resolution Center) and Gaza City (the Palestinian Center for Helping to Resolve community Disputes).”

The Islamic Nonviolence paradigm has been overlooked in today’s world, although it does exist. Examples on nonviolence and activism can be seen in Iraq by Sadr. On April 10, 2005, MASNET, the Muslim American Society reported that Sadr supported protest of U.S. occupation and the call for an Islamic state. MASNET reports, "Sadr followers vowed the rally was the first of many to pressure the new Iraqi government to demand that U.S. troops withdraw, but they stressed Sadr was not calling for a resumption of armed struggle against the U.S. military."

Additionally, Moayad al-Khazrajy, an aid to Sadr describes this new form of nonviolent protest, "We've organized ourselves now to continue these demonstrations until we force the government and national assembly to take our demands seriously and carry them out. We've received strict orders from Sayed Moqtada not to carry weapons, and even if we're fired at by occupation forces not to respond. For the time being, our position is peaceful."

This can also be seen in Lebanon where people of diverse religions have joined together to protest against Syria’s influence in the country. This is one of the most exciting developments where Muslims and people of other faiths have joined together, especially the youth:

Alaa Merhi, aged 23, from the youth organisation of the mainly-Druze Progressive Socialist Party of prominent opposition leader MP Walid Jumblatt, says “the youth went much faster and further than elder leaders could ever go.” “They (the older leaders) keep thinking about wartime massacres. It is not that we want to forget the war one has to learn from the past. But we cannot keep thinking about the past and forget our nation and its future,” said the unemployed graphic designer, adding that he had sent 350 applications out to try to get a job, in vain. Young people argue about the war and the past, he acknowledged, but added: “But we never argue about the future because we all want a free, democratic and independent Lebanon.”

Additionally, there are thousands of online groups and websites promoting Islamic peace. Just within the Yahoo Group Search under “Islam + Peace,” it lists over 350 groups. This does not count many other forums, chats and organizations, both Islamic and Inter-religious working together through various forms of electronic dialogue.

The final Islamic paradigm Abdul Said addressed is Sufism. Sufism is based in classical Islamic Tradition (Qur’an and Sunnah)and provides a complimentary transformational and spiritual framework to peace through the actions of the numerous members of the Sufi Orders worldwide, both guides (murids, i.e. complete Sufis) and students (murids i.e. dervishes on “The Path”). Some actions taken are very public, others are discrete. Inter-religiously, Sufism complements certain forms of Pre-Pauline, Rosicrucian and Gnostic Christian Mysticism as well as Jewish Kabbalah (the mystical path) and it is not unusual to see true bridges built among the Abrahamic faiths through these spiritual paths.

Sufism is based on strong traditional Islamic practices, as Said explains, “Deeply rooted in historical Islam, tasawwuf (Sufism) may be understood as the Islamic equivalent of the contemplative disciplines present in other world religions. Those who adhere to Sufism emphasize that, while tasawwuf focuses human attention completely on the ‘greater jihad’ of inner purification and the transformation of character, it does not presuppose social quietism. Indeed, the Sufi tradition places considerably stronger emphasis on the presence of the individual in society (and hence on the fulfillment of social duties) than the contemplative traditions of other world religions.”

The summaries above are shamefully too brief, but it is an impossibility to expand on them in this paper. They provide a foundation and a reason for the implementation of education, research and application of Islamic frameworks for peace by establishing the Iraqi Islamic School of Dialogue and Peacebuilding and International Islamic Center for Global Peace. Now we will review briefly some foundations in an Islamic approach to dialogue and why understanding these styles of dialogue are important.

Side Note. The blogger format will not allow for footnotes, etc. so I will present them at the of this series, or you can write me at my email and I can send you the information.

Iraq Blogging Humor

2006-01-24T16:57:00.001+01:00

I saw this cartoon yesterday, and these hours look right...

Non Sequitur by Wiley Miller (Cartoon)
Published on January 23, 2006 in the Washington Post
http://www.uclick.com/client/wpc/nq/2006/01/23/index.html

Precious Pearl: Rabi'a Al-'Adawiyya of Basrah, Iraq

2006-01-22T15:06:00.000+01:00

Rabi'a al-Adawiyya, an Islamic saint from Basrah, Iraq lived during the 8th century. She is a precious Pearl of Iraq who continues to open hearts through her poetry and her love for God.

O God!
If I adore You out of fear of Hell,
burn me in Hell!
If I adore You out of desire for Paradise,
Lock me out of Paradise.
But if I adore You for Yourself alone,
Do not deny to me Your eternal beauty

Let me hide in You
From everything
that distracts me from You,
From everything that comes in my way
When I want to run to You.

I swear that ever since the first day
You brought me back to life,
The day You became my Friend,
I have not slept --
And even if You drive me from your door,
I swear again that we will never be separated--
Because You are alive in my heart.

O God, Whenever I listen to the voice of anything
You have made—
The rustling of the trees
The trickling of water
The cries of birds
The flickering of shadow
The roar of the wind
The song of the thunder, I hear it saying:
“God is One! Nothing can be compared with God!”

In my Soul there is a temple, a shrine, a mosque, a church where I kneel.
Prayer should bring us to an altar where no walls or names exist.
Is there not a region of Love, where the Sovereignty is illuminated nothing,
Where ecstasy gets poured into itself and becomes lost,
Where the wing is fully alive but has no mind or body?
In my Soul there is a temple, a shrine, a mosque, a church that dissolves…that dissolves in God.

Rabia of Basra (c.717-801) Female Islamic saint, thank you Rabia for showing me the beauty these past years.

Diamonds may cut Diamonds but Pearls are Heavenly

2006-01-19T21:52:00.000+01:00

Greetings Brother Osama,

As-Salamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu

Ah, diamonds may cut diamonds but diamonds are not mentioned in the Qur’an. Pearls are mentioned six times.

Thank you for your correspondence through the audio tape. Before I continue, I do want to ask you to come on video because as you know, 80% of communication is through body language. The second reason, and I can only speak for myself in this post to you, is that I have not seen you in a long time therefore can not trust that it is you speaking or if you have passed and this audio is a replacement. Until I can look into your eyes, the audio is not very helpful. But let us assume it is you or a replacement and proceed.

It is unclear in your message if you are indirectly talking to Bush by addressing the American people. Now is the time to put away any personal agenda and vendetta for the sake of Allah and his creation.

As you know, running a big corporation like Al-Qaeda or a government is difficult and there are times that people take advantage of unfortunate situations. I am sure you can understand this corruption and lack of clear communication. Presently, your mujahideen have been attacking Iraqi people, Muslims and people of the Book. There has been a major lost of human life, as you say, “the rise in the number of your dead and wounded, let alone the huge material losses,” but it has not been the US forces (relatively speaking and who are trying to rebuild Iraq under difficult circumstances), but the Iraqi people themselves. It is my understanding that one of your mujahideen got the wrong message and committed haram! by blowing up fellow Muslim brothers in Pakistan with a suicide bomb just recently. You know suicide bombing is haram according to all Sharia laws and schools of jurisprudence. We can al-jadal this issue at a different time.

Corruption. As you are realize, your lower level mujahideen are desperate for money and what little they receive from their employer goes directly for their families. Your corporation currently is not building commerce and industry. It is not providing the appropriate jobs and the education which allows for sustainable development. I know you have tried. Further more, the workers are not getting the correct messages and are making errors, especially against Muslims, their brothers (and do not forget the many Muslims and People of the Book in America).

Many mujahideen are trying to leave your corporation, thousands, but find themselves trapped and their families threatened. I would recommend calling in a new human resource manager because they are realizing the benefits are horrible, especially when they comprehend everything they are doing and have been told, is against Islam and that they will be judged, not by you or others in Al Qaeda, but by Allah on Judgment Day

Your middle management is out of control financially. They are prospering and living in million dollar houses around the world earning money from the pyramid scheme. In Karachi, Peshawar, and Lahore, your middle men have some of the finest houses and cars in the country. Same goes for Indonesia and other countries; this compromises the credibility of your words. I would call in a financial auditor for your books… just a recommendation.

The other thing I wanted to discuss are the American people. When you were in the US back in 1986, how old were you then, hmm, 26? 27? You got to see more of America than most hardworking Americans get to see in a life time. Did you rent an RV and go on the road to talk to the American people and perhaps even slip in some Daw’ah? Remember the Prophet (Sallahu Alayh wa Salam, meaning peace be upon him, hereafter cited as SAWS), always stressed daw’ah, good adab and following the Al Quran, Alhadiths and Sunnah with gracious ethics of disagreement; Daw’ah and patience, mercy and compassion always.

As you know, at least I hope you know, the American people are diversified, coming from almost every country in the world. It is a pluralistic society of race, religion (including many Muslims), ethnicity, gender, everything which operates (outside of crime) peacefully. America is not perfect, but they are doing a fairly good job in practicing peaceful co-existence.

A truce. Ok, as a sign of goodwill, as the Prophet (SAWS) would do without asking for anything in return, but as his nature was generous, kind, patience and compassion, then I ask you to help negotiation the release all hostages in Iraq and second, put down arms and help us rebuild Iraq and Afghanistan. If money is an issue, ask your middle management to down size their lifestyle. Many of us work two jobs and live simply, so these people can too, and bring in building supplies and tools.

Diamonds may cut Diamonds, but soon there will be nothing left except toxic dust. Pearls, the Pearls of Iraq and Afghanistan, the Pearls of the World, will live on.

"Then We have given the Book for inheritance to such of Our Servants as We have chosen: but there are among them some who wrong their own souls; some who follow a middle course; and some who are, by Allah's leave, foremost in good deeds; that is the highest Grace. Gardens of Eternity will they enter: therein will they be adorned with bracelets of gold and pearls; and their garments there will be of silk. And they will say: "Praise be to Allah, Who has removed from us (all) sorrow: for our Lord is indeed Oft-Forgiving Ready to appreciate (service)," (Al Qur'an 35:32-34)

"And remember We took a covenant from the Children of Israel (to this effect): Worship none but Allah; treat with kindness your parents and kindred, and orphans and those in need; speak fair to the people; be steadfast in prayer; and practise regular charity. Then did ye turn back, except a few among you, and ye backslide (even now)." (Al Qur’an 2:83)

"And remember We took your covenant (to this effect): Shed no blood amongst you, nor turn out your own people from your homes: and this ye solemnly ratified, and to this ye can bear witness." (Al Qur’an 2:84)

"After this it is ye, the same people, who slay among yourselves, and banish a party of you from their homes; assist (Their enemies) against them, in guilt and rancour; and if they come to you as captives, ye ransom them, though it was not lawful for you to banish them. Then is it only a part of the Book that ye believe in, and do ye reject the rest? but what is the reward for those among you who behave like this but disgrace in this life?- and on the Day of Judgment they shall be consigned to the most grievous penalty. For Allah is not unmindful of what ye do."(Al Qur’an 2:85)

Volume 8, Book 73, Number 135:
Narrated Abu Huraira:

Allah's Apostle said, "The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger."

Although some of the Ayats were discussing other people at the time, it appropriately applies to us today. It is a warning to Muslims not to twist the Qur’an for the lesser Jihad, but to work on the Greater Jihad, the struggle against self, against our egos, judgments, impatience, lack of Daw’ah and grace, anger and other nafs that cause us to drift from the love of God and Creation, to drift from service and respect and that which only gets us into to a war where there is no winner. It is not who wins or loses on this earthly plane, but how we play the game.

Therefore, go forth with good deeds from this time on and turn away from these past years of deviations from Islam, Al Quran, Sunnah and Alhadiths as those before had strayed from God. Harm none, serve Allah and his creation in graciousness, humility and compassion. Guide in patience and Daw’ah, mercy and true justice. Make amends with abundance.

Only the saying, "Peace! Peace". (Al Qur’an, 56:26)

Allahafiz and ‘wa-salaam,

Sister Miriam

Pearls of Iraq Hodgepodge

2006-01-19T13:53:00.000+01:00

This is a hodgepodge today because now I am working two part time jobs which are really two full time jobs as far as work is concerned, but the pay of part time, if that makes sense. This is until May but both consultancies are distinctly different, one concentrating on economic development of private sector in Iraq (more to come on this in a couple of weeks) and one is working directly with Islamic peacebuilding and dialogue (manual and conference). I am, as always, working with duality. Plus I am taking a class (no credit since I have my Master’s already) at the university.

Last night, after many hours of work and cleaning my office, I flopped into bed, suffering from “computer shoulder.” Different positions and heat does not help. Does anyone else get this? Anyway, last night, I watched TV for an hour, Fox News. A rare event.

Different stories came up, the first about Jill Carroll, a freelancer for the Boston-based Christian Science Monitor. There are Islamic religious leaders and Islamic peace builders, mediators on both sides of the ocean diligently working to get her released. These kidnappings go against Islam so I question if some of organizations are really Islamic or old Ba’thist or who are they? Are they relatives of the 8 women being held, as it is their request to have the 6 of the 8 women release from prison? Also, who are these 6 women and why are they being held and who are the other 2? As for their release, this should really be the decision of the Iraqi government now. And no, I am not naïve.

We have not heard from the CPT team and I am going to add prayers for Jill Carroll, obviously a smart young woman, a sweetie and innocent. In fact all people who have been kidnapped is haram. One more thing, the Christian Science Monitor is a good publication, I feel very objective and fair in its news reporting. They have had wonderful articles on Islam in the past and work on building bridges.

Other news being reported in the press, "Thirty people were dragged from their cars at crude checkpoints erected on unpaved roads and shot dead execution-style in farming areas in Nibaei, a town near Dujail, about 50 miles north of Baghdad, said police Lt. Qahtan Al-Hashmawi." Why? Why kill innocent Iraqi people? Who ever is doing this are enemies of the Iraqi people.

Last night there were two Iraqis conducting an interview about life under Saddam and their lost of family. Similar or the same video footage aired (see my last post with the link to Kurdo’s page from 2004), it is very clear that life under Saddam was horrendous for the majority of the Iraqi people.

Finally, word has it...as of right now, the media has not responded to the reconstruction coverage. The Media has failed. They failed the challenge thus far. One thing I realized last night, over the past few months, Greta Van Susteren’s program has concentrated on the story in Aruba about Natalee Holloway and now George Smith, the missing man on the cruise. Ok, these stories have importance but they are not even a drop in the bucket of missing people. A yahoo search on “missing people” brings up many results. “more than 100,000 active files on missing adults and children currently tracked by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.” This is just in the US, imagine across the globe!

I use to respect her as a reporter but the theme of concentrating on a couple of missing people is too much. Either expand the reporting to include a new person each segment or drop the topic. Today I see that I am not the only one to think this has gone a little overboard and she defends her reporting. Click here.

There are hundreds of thousands of missing people in the world, Greta. Diversify and expand the missing people coverage and while you are at it, why not report on the positive reconstruction in Iraq, perhaps a weekly 15 minute slot? Hmm. Not too much to ask, you are a great reporter.

Kurdish Proverbs II and …

2006-01-16T15:12:00.000+01:00

I am in the mood for more Kurdish proverbs, must be a philosophical day. We will start off with one of the most well known proverbs of and by the Kurdish people.

Kurds (as a nation) have no friends but the Mountains.

A small key opens big doors.

Even the highest tree has an axe waiting at its foot.

In a flat country a hillock thinks itself a mountain.

Listen a hundred times; ponder a thousand times; speak once.

Whoever is fond of cream should take the cow around with him.

I am looking for Kurdish folktales in English, so if anyone knows of resources, online or in books, let me know. Really, all these works must be translated to English so we may all share the Kurdish hearts and culture.

Here is a partial list of Kurdish movies that have English translation, if anyone has more to add to the list, let me know. They are hard to find.

Jiyan (favorite)
Marooned in Iraq
A Time For Drunken Horses
A Song for Beko
Journey of Hope
Turtles Can Fly (I did not care much for this movie)

On a sadder side, if anyone has any doubts what so ever about removing Saddam from power then go to Kurdo’s page from 2004. These movies are not for the faint of heart, for they are reality of Saddam’s era. I will put a warning on these movies for graphics, a reminder that 35 years of brutality can not be healed within 3 years. It will take an outpouring time, patience, support and true commitment. Three years have passed … but the memories and realities will be there for generations in Iraq, now is the time for the most support and full understanding.

http://kurdo.blogspot.com/2004/08/nightmare-these-videos-very-graphic.html

Pearls of Iraq: Iraq PCO Weekly Update, January 14, 2006

2006-01-14T14:27:00.000+01:00

Every week, Friday or Saturday I will continue to challenge the media to report PCO’s Iraqi reconstruction achievements and link to the weekly updates.

This week in the update (click here), is a link for a video (click here). I am a very visually focused person and this video covers some of the reconstructions efforts and challenges through video clips. In the video, they discuss the importance of sustainable reconstruction through training of Iraqis and taking responsibility of the reconstruction effort and security issues. I appreciate the effort taken to film this video and look forward to future videos about the reconstruction.

Two more videos concentrate on our beloved Iraqi children. May God continue to improve their situation and provide them with education, healthcare and an improved and happy childhood.
Below are the real player links…

How a visit to one Baghdad school touched the lives of a special group of deaf and mute Iraqi students.
http://hn.afnews.af.mil/Meta/Video/helping%20deaf.ram

1st Armored Division Soldiers helping to rebuild a Baghdad school through community outreach.
http://hn.afnews.af.mil/Meta/Video/outreach.ram

From the pdf file, the highlights pulled out from this week's update are the many video links and the 8 strategy objectives or pillars.

1.Defeat the Terrorists and Neutralize the Insurgency [ I would say…transform and ask these groups to put down their arms and pick up tools and start rebuilding]

2.Transition Iraq to Security Self-Reliance

3.Help Iraqis to Forge a National Compact for Democratic Government

4.Help Build Government Capacity and Provide Essential Services

5.Help Iraq Strengthen Its Economy [Encourage private sector commerce and industry development. Currently the French, Germans, Dutch, Norwegians and even China have investments and industry growing in Iraq providing jobs to the Iraqi people]

6.Help Iraq Strengthen the Rule of Law and Promote Civil Rights

7.Increase International Support for Iraq [Non-American corporations are investing and building in Iraq while the US corporations are holding back or keeping a low profile outside of the military contracts]

8.Strengthen Public Understanding of Coalition Efforts and Public Isolation of the Insurgents [Vocation and Educational training goes a long way. Those with good jobs are less likely to find idle time and are more committed to rebuilding their country]

I would like to add, continue to fund basic infrastructure projects until such time there is a strong enough foundation and other diverse support for reconstruction of Iraq.

The Challenge: I challenge a major network to produce a weekly 30 minute program on the PCO projects. I challenge major and local newspapers to provide, free of charge, donated “white space”, meaning pages, to print these updates every week. Challenge your favorite TV networks and newspapers. Challenge your local radio stations to provide a 7 minute focused update. Dare them to cover these projects! I bet the media would find interested sponsors for this type of programming. It should be prime time. The people want to know and deserve to know where their tax money is going and how it is being used.

Pearls of Iraq: Part Three -Islamic Peacebuilding

2006-01-11T14:19:00.000+01:00

This is a continuing series on Islamic Educational Peacebuilding Initiatives in Iraq. For those who missed part one, click here or part two, click here. We continue with the prospect of developing a school focused on Islamic peacebuilding, dialogue and justice, including nonviolence…We pick up the topic from the Part Two summary.

Summary

Iraq, a role model and a leader in prolific solutions will continue to expand its respect and determination concerning innovative methods for peaceful co-existence and diplomacy in national and foreign policy. This paper discusses the argument for the recommendations, expands on the vision and provides an overview of the implementation of the recommendations.

International Educational Leadership Role in Dialogue, Nonviolence and Peacebuilding

Introduction

If ye fear a breach between them twain, appoint (two) arbiters, one from his family, and the other from hers; if they wish for peace, Allah will cause their reconciliation: For Allah hath full knowledge, and is acquainted with all things.
The Holy Qur’an. Surah 4:35

This ayat comes from the Surah An-Nisa (Women) concerning conflict within the family structure between a husband and wife.

Out of the Arab Peninsula, Allah, the Creator, revealed the Holy Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. The entire Middle East is rich in the Abrahamic traditions and cultures that date back thousands of years and post - Muhammadan (pbuh) Islamic principles hold the key to mediating and resolving conflict on all levels. Combining Islamic approaches to peacebuilding with traditional conflict theory and resolution curriculum will provide a positive foundation for generations on all levels of interaction.

Iraqi foreign policy formally supports reconciliation and peaceful initiatives exercised between nations, people and cultures. Through education and dialogue, skillfully trained practitioners and teachers can apply the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah to conflict and development issues emerging in the world today. Additionally, these individuals will have cross-cultural, interreligious and innovative methods developed by other cultures in their “toolbox”.

The key issues of developing an Iraqi Islamic School of Dialogue and Peacebuilding and the International Islamic Center for Global Peace must be addressed. The uniqueness of these two institutions will be explained and the reasons for Islamic approaches to dialogue and peace are important to the field of conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

Islamic and Western Approaches to Peace

He called us to worship God alone... he commanded us to speak the truth, to honor our promises, to be kind to our relations, to be helpful to our neighbors, to cease all forbidden acts, to abstain from bloodshed, to avoid obscenities and false witness...

The fact is little was known about Islam by the majority of non-Muslim people throughout the world prior to the events of 9/11. In the wake of that event, what has been “learned” about Islam has not often been accurate. Although there were scholars and clergy who realized the cultural and religious meaning behind Islam, inner peace by way of submission; the common person who did not live in a country or culture with a large Muslim population had very little experience, education or understanding concerning the religion of Islam. Even in areas with large Muslim populations, many non-Muslims still display a surprising ignorance regarding Islamic teachings.

The past four years have experienced an explosion in the interest of Islam and unfortunately, the stereotyping of Muslims based on the actions of a very small minority of pseudo-Islamic extremists. Violent extremist sects are not isolated to Muslim populations. These groups exist in all religions, including all three of the Abrahamic faiths.

Stereotyping, miscommunication and misperceptions on both sides have increased in part due to media and little cross-cultural, multi-religious education and interaction. In the west, change is evolving due in part to multi-religious academics, facilitators, scholars, imams and clergy who are willing to find common ground, respect the differences and establish new programs and activities that benefit humanity and foster co-existence.

The field of conflict resolution, dialogue and peacebuilding had a similar discrepancy in the past. Approaches that were considered “non-Western,” including Islamic approaches, were considered an oddity and not mainstream. Very few schools taught this approach or offered extensive coursework and research on the Islamic tradition of peacebuilding. This is due in large part to the fact that the western outlook on Islam in recent years has too often grown from the sudden, limited perception of the events of 9/11 and terrorist groups who portrayed themselves as “Islamic.” This is unfortunate, as the overwhelming majority of ‘ulama fall into the mainstream category and are a far cry from these violent radicals. Although there are differences between the mainstream western methodologies and the Islamic approaches to dialogue and peacebuilding, most are complimentary.

Abdul Said, a leading expert in the field of Islamic approaches to conflict resolution and peace, describes the Islamic approach, “Tensions exist between Islamic and Western countries and cultures. Nevertheless, there is a need for new frameworks to organize knowledge about Islam. These frameworks should go beyond old discourses that define Western phenomena as ‘normal’ and Islamic phenomena as ‘exceptional.’ What is needed, in other words, is a new agenda for research and dialogue.” A strong foundation towards the Islamic frameworks is now in place; additional research and development is needed.

The universal virtue of peace can be found in all major of religions and cultures. Human dignity, human rights such as food and shelter, security and justice are commonalities. If we learn to focus on virtues, we will find those universal commonalities. The virtues of justice, loyalty, patience, trust, peace, etc. are all universal. What differs within the virtue of peace, for example, is the methodology to obtain peace. I will discuss both Western thought and the Islamic paradigms of peace to give further understanding to these differing yet complementary perspectives.

Western Perceptive

Western thought and theory differs from Islamic approaches to dialogue, conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Applied, Western approaches are beneficial and have strong cross-cultural elements, but their perception of peace and conflict differs from Islam. The western view of conflict, can be defined when “two or more parties have perceived contradictory aims, situations or ideals, over a long period of time, and is present at all levels of human existences from intrapersonal to national or global systems. Western thought also recognizes conflict as an accepted progression of perceived differences, although some many view conflict as a basis for positive change.”

The history behind conflict resolution and peacebuilding in the Western world, has been rapidly growing in the past fifty years, beginning with the field of Human Resources in the 1950’s, growing to Resolution Through Corporate Management and Psychology in the 1960’s. The Civil Rights Movement opened the door further in the late 1960’s, with the development of meditation and a newfound interest in “Non-Western” forms of mysticism, philosophy, religion and culture. Arbitration addresses issues such as gender and race, followed by study and use of negotiation in the 1970’s. Conflict Resolution first appeared in the 1980’s. It focused on addressing the root causes of a conflict and the use of management, usually by a third party. This works well with temporary but not long - term conflicts. The 1990’s has brought about transformation in the field of Conflict Resolution and Peace-Building by incorporating a multi-level system of change, initiated and maintained by the conflict parties within, rather than relying on outside parties.

In addition to transformation is the cutting edge, positive approach to peacebuilding with the application of Appreciative Inquiry and the 4D approach (See Appendix 1, which will be present at end of the series). This fresh, positive philosophical approach encourages positive transformation, as stated from Positive Approaches to Peacebuilding: A Resource for Innovators, “Conflict as a Source of Change” – This states that conflict not good or evil but a perception of self reality and within a degree of change. Conflict is an innate progression, which is continuously changing, offering participants with a choice, rather than a need or requirement, of productive or counterproductive outcomes.

These outcomes are dependent upon the participants’ intent and approach to the issues.” This approach uses narratives, which have been successful across the world. The use of stories and other forms of oral tradition is prominent in many traditional cultures. It is a powerful tool used for teaching and reconciliation.

Let us look at the differences between the some Western views and Traditional Islam.

The two major cultural systems are the “Modern” (i.e. mainly secular) and “Traditional” (i.e. highly influenced by popular religious, cultural, and spiritual ethics) cultures, also known as the Western / Eastern cultures. Some call these systems Low Context / High Context. Islam can be considered a “traditional” culture or the High Context. For the purpose of this paper, “Low Context and High Context” will be used. Conflict between these two types of culture often occurs because of misperceptions and/or misunderstanding of the “Other”. Conflict within each culture is normal but the procedures for resolving the conflict are different. Understanding Low and High Context culture is essential to understanding conflict and intercultural relations.

Avruch discusses that conflicts within cultures are caused by misperception or a “failure to communicate”. These misperceptions can be reconcilable through dialogue and education and rarely are the true nature of the conflict. Instead, Avruch suggests that “socially constructed and politically motivated ethnic difference” causes the conflict struggle on the international level.

Low Context cultures’ main emphasis is individualism and High Context are more focused on interdependence and group inter-action. Appendix 2 shows the contrasts between the Low and High Context cultures. The main differences between the two types of culture are based on the importance of self-image. Augsburger’s describes the importance of respect and saving face as follows, “Face is a psychological image that can be granted and lost, fought for and presented as a gift. It is the public self-image that every member of every society wants to claim for himself or herself in relationships.”

He goes on to describe the West, or low context, “For members of Low-context cultures, directly dealing with “face” in a conflict situation signifies an honest, up-front way of handling a problematic situation. For members of High-context cultures, the indirect, subtle dealing with “face” in a conflict situation reflects good taste and tactfulness.”

Based on the characteristics of Low Context and High Context cultures found in Appendix 2, there are different approaches to Conflict Resolution. Abu-Nimer has conducted extensive research in both types of culture. In various phases of a Cleveland study, he noted the following regarding Low Context Cultures, “ Conflict resolution can benefit both parties…One can rely on interest-based negotiation and cooperative approach to achieve a task… the parties used a collaborative decision making process to reach consensus over an action plan…Existing civic laws are accepted as a main framework for intervention in a dispute (Merry, 1989)….Since Western society is based on individualism (Bellah and et., 1985), then people who are not related directly to a conflict have minimal involvement…Conflict is not necessarily a negative interaction that should be avoided.”

The contrast of conflict resolution in the Middle Eastern case study presents as follows:

..the importance of preserving and protecting the honor of the parties…The unity of the families, village, and region should be maintained in order not to dilute power and solidarity in facing outside challengers.. An individual and a community defined the meaning of their existence as working to create a positive environment for their children and next generation…therefore, they emphasized that Christianity, Islam, and Druze are three religions that stress values of tolerance and respect of elders…A tradition of peaceful and respectful relationships in the village in the past…The Arab tradition of forgiveness and dignity, an important value which elders have traditionally utilized to encourage certain behaviors of tolerance and respect.

The approach in each culture is totally different, as we have just witnessed. Crossover training in the different approaches could be of benefit to both types of culture, utilizing the positive aspects of both approaches for certain situations. Both approaches are equally strong. Understanding cultures aids in which approach is appropriate to different conflicts.

Side Note. The blogger format will not allow for footnotes, etc. so I will present them at the of this series, or you can write me at my email and I can send you the information.

He is Free!

2006-01-09T18:43:00.000+01:00

After I posted my friend's words, "I cry for my brother", I went for nap having spent much of the night in research for my fellowship. Upon awakening, I found a good email in my box, my friend wrote his brother is free. Alhamdullillah. Thanks be to God and thanks for prayers that came in such short time.

I Cry for My Brother

2006-01-09T11:12:00.000+01:00

I want to share the voice of this precious of Pearl of Iraq and request prayers for safe release. The voice below says it all.

I Cry for My Brother

It is now day 21. By the time you read this, my brother would be still in captivity or dead or hopefully free. He was attacked by four armed men when he was on his way to buy bread for breakfast. I cry for my kidnapped brother, but who cries for the family of 12 who were slaughtered in Latifiya? Who cries for the four young policemen killed in Baghdad? Who cries for the five Sudanese kidnapped? And, who cries for the burned oil pipe and the $20million that Iraq looses every day from this incident alone? (All these happened in a single day, Thursday, December 29.)

Many continue to believe that these incidents are the exception, and all-in-all what is happening in Iraq is not strictly terrorism but National Resistance and is for the glory of Islam.

So, the killing in Latifiya اللطيفيــه is the exception. How about the forty killed in a bus departing to Nasiria ناصريــه, the ninety killed in two mosques in Khanaqin خانقيــن , the one hundred killed in the market of Musaib مسيــب , and the thirty killed in a restaurant in Baghdad, the very next day after the attacks in Amman, to name but some of the incidents that are still in memory?
Few days ago, January 5, the carnage goes continued. At least, fifty were killed in the center of Karbala next to the holy shrines, and sixty outside a police recruiting centre in Ramadi. The numbers are rising and the wounded are easily in the hundreds.

Humanity dictates that we pose, ponder and comprehend that these are not numbers. These are human beings, men women and children.

Allow me please to be candid. Many, especially the Arabs and Muslims, who believe in the national resistance “myth” do so in good faith. The problem is that they simply can’t get out of their cocoon of years of detestation to the West, though not modernization, and the US, as the West leader. They desperately want to believe that what is happening in Iraq has to be some sort of “national resistance,” one way or another. So much so, that they unconsciously believe their own wishful thinking. The facts on the ground are otherwise, pure and simple. Ordinary Iraqis are the victims, Iraq, the country, is paying the price, and the killings and other acts of terror are done by Arabs, Muslims, and Iraqis with vengeance.

The “myth” believers have grievances, some quite legitimate, against the US in general, and its presence in Iraq, in particular and against the Iraqi government. They are certainly at liberty to hate the US and the Iraqi government to their hearts’ delight.

However, unless they deny their humanity, they don’t have the right to express their grievances by being indifferent to the terror, turning the eye away from the slaughter, and focusing on the US errors. Uttering a polite mute condemnation will not do. It should be at least as loud, if not louder than the justifiable condemnation of the Iraqi government and the US.

By taking this stand, they give tacit but very effective support and encouragement to the killings of the Iraqis. And, when this passive attitude comes from intellectuals and organizations, the damage is compounded. One shouldn’t forget that the blood of the Iraqi victims is as “blue” as that of their Jordanian brethrens. It is morally reprehensible to denounce the attacks in Amman as terrorism, but not the very same ones in Iraq.

Iraq Rebuilding II: Interview with Kurdish citizen about life in Sulaimaniya, Iraq Kurdistan, January 7, 2006

2006-01-07T16:35:00.000+01:00

Please see my previous post about the “U.S. has end in sight on Iraq rebuilding” as this interview and the rebuilding issue has a direct relationship.

Interview with Iraqi Kurdish citizen:

Tell me about the power and situation right now in Sulaimaniya? There is just a few hours power in Sulaimaniya. 4 to 6 hours in total 24 hours and the bad situation of water. Sometimes we have not water for a week or couple of weeks. There is generator but there is no petrol (gas, benzene).

Do the restaurants have water? No the restaurants have not.

How do people survive? Sometime I will buy a petrol by high price but, its not sufficient you have to buying daily and there is problem coz there is no petrol in petrol situation all time. People between live and death. Live is very simple, a rich country have million of problems

Do the people have heat for homes? In winter? People have a little heater, because heaters will work by electric or petrol, and we have Power and electric problem. There are no Americans rebuilding, in water and power here.

What about food, is food getting to market? To the souk? There is no food problem, just there are poor people; they have not money to by sufficient food, there is little salary for people and the food very expensive according their salary.

http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2006/01/pearls-of-iraq-us-has-end-in-sight-on.html

Pearls of Iraq: U.S. has end in sight on Iraq rebuilding

2006-01-07T13:03:00.000+01:00

This is the reconstruction update for the week. The future does not look good for Iraq (the media challenge still remains). Here it goes…

US government, shame on you! This may be old news from January 2 (click here), but I have held back and been quiet checking some resources. Shame on you.

I remain neutral on the decision to go into Iraq but not on rebuilding. As mentioned in my previous posts, the money has been diverted for security, and currently the media reports, the Justice System and Hussein Inquiry. First, I think, given a choice, the Iraq people would rather build schools, health care centers, vocation schools, improve electric, water, sewer and develop secure zones for investment and commerce compared to spending money on Saddam’s inquiry and trial.

Were they given a choice? Could the trial preparation and proceedings been less elaborate? What if Saddam was an ordinary person who ordered a hit killing on another person? Would he still warrant this much money spent? Get this trial completed. Some say, the Iraqi people need this trial to heal. Hmmm. At whose expense and sacrifice? Do the people know that this money could have been given for improved healthcare? That would have heal and saved many Iraqis lives. Or the trial is to teach a democratic justice system? Ok we get the idea, now trim the fat.

Second, what is this? “Since the reconstruction effort began in 2003, midcourse changes by U.S. officials have shifted at least $2.5 billion from the rebuilding of Iraq's decrepit electrical, education, water, sewage, sanitation and oil networks to build new security forces for Iraq and to construct a nationwide system of medium- and maximum-security prisons and detention centers that meet international standards, according to reconstruction officials and documents.” (Washington Post)

Billion. McCoy said: "This was just supposed to be a jump-start." So what is the “jump start” point? The war caused more destruction on the Iraqi infrastructure from both the initial invasion and now the terrorists and insurgents. It is lower now compared to before the US went into Iraq.

Some of the US and coalition errors stem from not heeding the advise of experts, especially in regards to the 5 million dollar report developed before 2003 outlining how to proceed if the US went into Iraq…yes US citizens paid for this report that took 4 years to develop by Iraqi experts including many Iraqis themselves. People who know the culture, the interaction of the religions (and there are many Sunni/Shia intermarriages, do not let the media fool you) and the real situation on the ground and which, would have prevented some of the current problems. This huge, expensive report and recommendations were ignored and tossed to the side. Flush, 5 million dollars and now as a result… more money down the drain. This is a case of 10 steps back and only a couple steps forward. This was not the fault of the Iraqi people, why must they suffer? This is true abandonment of the Iraqi people.

Security, well, the US government was advised by many people, experts before 2003, the jihadists were waiting for you to go into Iraq, they will flood the borders. Really, it does not take an expert to realize this, they were advised.

Time to trim more fat. Time to begin the transition from military focused approach to conflict reconciliation and civil society redevelopment. If this had been priority in the very beginning and conducted with the understanding of the Iraqi and Islamic culture, many of problems we see today would not exist and others would be more manageable. Instead from the beginning it was a military focus climate without a well planned phase IV in place.

Here is an interesting Pearl of Iraq voice from the article, “The Americans, said Zaid Saleem, 26, who works at a market in Baghdad, "are the best in destroying things but they are the worst in rebuilding."

Time to trim the fat, I repeat. Do the American people know there are over 3,000 people working at the US Embassy in the Green Zone? With full salaries and extra benefits for a conflict area? Most do not even leave the zone, of course, because of security. Can some of these people be stateside? It is a small village there, isolated. Imagine the costs of operating such a village in a conflict zone, flying food, generators, security. Oh yes…that is up to Halliburton…hmmm.

Ironically, the Iraqi Embassy in Washington operates under a skeleton staff at a time when it is crucial to be developing embassy services and interaction… including renovations of a very beautiful but old historical building which needs major repairs. They need funds released to allow all of this to happen. Why are the funds still being held? I respect the Iraq Embassy very much for their patience and working hard with less…Bless them.

This war in Iraq could be compared to a car run over by a tank. The car may have been old but now it is totaled. The passengers are in critical care but the hospital staff decided to leave the operating room to go play golf. Or is it to gear up for another “accident” somewhere else?

I call on the US and all the countries, begin a transitional military pullout, gradual, but please, please, do not abandon the Iraqi people. Help them get to a functional state. Divert some of the current military/security funding BACK to reconstruction. Please, do not abandon the Iraqi people now.

Things are not looking good for Blue Pearl’s school and Water Pearl’s healthcare facility.

Iranian Mullah Mafia

2006-01-05T14:22:00.000+01:00

Reading East Kurd’s blog, http://eastkurd.blogspot.com/ , has shaken me back to the Iranian situation, including their increasing persecution against ethnic groups, like the Balouchi, the Kurdish people and women in general. The Islamic Revolution would not have come to be without the women and now once again, women are used and thrown away after the political entities secure their positions, as they have in the past.

Do not get me wrong, I like mullahs, respected scholars who are wise; they are helpful to my research, but not some of these Mullahs. It is the Iranian Mullah Mafia gone wild. This is revivalist religion rather than traditional at its finest or perhaps, worse case scenario.

Why did the government get rid of 1000 candidates in previous elections? Why was yahoo user voice chat (used by many Iranians, especially young people) brought down a couple of weeks before the elections (some say it was an incident with children). I think the timing is questionable… I wonder if Yahoo realized the consequences of this decision and timing. Perhaps the Mullah Mafia would not be in such a state now.

This is why, at least for now, politics and religion does not mix. Humanity as a whole has not progressed to the point to allow such. It is like giving toddlers a car to drive with fatal results.

That is all for today.

Kurdish Proverbs in the New Year

2006-01-01T14:27:00.000+01:00

Kurdish Proverbs in the New Year

I love Kurdish proverbs. I love Kurdology. It has been my personal dream to get my PhD in Kurdology studying proverbs and oral traditions and their relationship to Kurdish tribal mediation and conflict reconciliation in connection to Islamic peacebuilding. It would make for a nice dissertation. It also requires learning one of the Kurdish dialects. I am trying to teach myself Sorani with a book given to me. Although a university in Iraq Kurdistan, under the guidance of a fantastic scholar and mentor, (Choni my dear Professor!!) has agreed to accept me as a PhD student, provided I learn Sorani, the circumstances at this time have delayed this opportunity. Even so! I continue studies on my own.

Therefore, for the New Year, I want to share some of my favorite Kurdish proverbs. Some are funny, some insightful and many use animals as an example. There is a good website that has a 125 page pdf file with more proverbs. http://www.barzan.com/index.htm
and http://www.barzan.com/PDF_Files/kstudies1.pdf

Animals:
• A wise man can be a donkey (karr), but a donkey can never be wise.
• If you put a donkey on the roof, you must get him down again.
• When the camel was asked why his neck was so long, he replied, "Because I look so far into the future."
• For every mouse hole, God made a mouse.
• If six people go to kill a frog, they will frighten him to death if nothing else.
• If you are not a duck, don't try to lay duck eggs.

Food and Eating:
• Hunger is the root of violence
• When you are tired you don't need a pillow and when you are hungry you don't need spices

Family:
• If the father is a drummer, his child will be a dance.
• If your parents haven't taught you, time will teach you.
• A good mother-in-law is better than a pair of mules

Misc:

• There is a medicine for every condition except stupidity
• He who is not at home finds his wife married by others
• He who does not fight has a sharp sword
• The heart is not a rock but is softer than a flower's petal
• Cheat me once, God curse you; cheat me twice, God Curse me (this seems to be universal)

• After you try, God will give
• God was doing His work before Moses and Jesus. (Some people think they are indispensable; they are not.)

• God made a hat even for the acorn
• What you see as right for yourself, you must see as right for others
• If you can't bite, don't bare your teeth
• If you don't know how to give birth, why are you making love?
• A one-faced pig is better than a two-faced man
• Silence is better than ignorance
• They were taking a man to be hanged and his wife said, "On your way home bring me some henna."

Finally, Peacebuilding:
• A fighter will give up; a peacemaker will not
• He destroys his enemies with sugar.
• War makes thieves; peace hangs them

Happy Blessed New Year All! May 2006 hold good tidings, blessings and divine intervention and more peaceful measures, as the light spreads across the earth.

Miram

Thank You Mom!

2005-12-30T20:05:00.000+01:00

Two posts in one day, but I want to thank my Mom about something important that happened last night.

Dear Momma,

Thank you for all your support, especially during these difficult past three years, losing Dad and supporting my return to school for my Masters Degree. I want to thank you for standing by my decision to give up a wonderful career in order to do this and being at my graduation. I want to thank you for supporting my decision to go to Iraq, even though it worried you greatly. You believe in me, my intentions and goals of helping rebuild Iraq and my unfailing, dedication for my beloved Iraqi and Kurdish people. You may not understand it, but you always support me, and last night you supported them.

I want to thank you for last night, for our telephone conversation. Maybe I am making myself vulnerable here on the blog, but that is ok. I want the world to know how wonderful you are. You know the sacrifices of the whole family, what it has been like these past three years, time wise, financially, the lost of Dad, our separation, you where you are, me here…everything. If people think peacebuilding and development is a glamorous career, they need to think again. It is hard. You have been there every step of the way, through tears, through frustration, through my research and paper deadlines, through the happy times.

Mom, you know I have been seeking that special job which will support my two sons while helping the Iraqi people. You know how much I want the school for “Blue Pearl” and to help with other projects and still be able to feed my family. Two hundred applications later… I was so down last night.

Yesterday, after a difficult day, while the sun was setting, you called me and we talked softly, some laughter, some silent tears. I said, “Mom, maybe I just need to go work for Starbucks for awhile, until I find something better that can take care of my sons here and help with the projects in Iraq.” What you said last night surprised me again, “Maybe you should, but do not forget, you must build that school for the children.” Do not forget the education for the children.

You see, mom, you pushed me through college. You push my sons to study, no matter what and to be the best young men they can be in all good ways. The topic of education was always important with our family and you have been the catalyst for all good things in my life. Last night, as night was falling, so were my hopes and dreams of making a difference. Oh, Mom, you gave me the encouragement and strength I need to carry on with hope. I will find something, some organization or work that loves the Iraqis as much as I do. The school will come to be. Thank you for your love and support, once again.

Love,
Your Daughter

Reconstruction Photos

2005-12-30T16:52:00.000+01:00

Dean’s World has reconstruction photos from Andrew Cory up on the website. They are awesome and proof there is working being done in Iraq.

It is Iraq reconstruction update day but I believe the PCO office is out on holiday until next week. Based on this, for this week, I would like to direct everyone to the Department of Commerce and their support on revitalizing Iraq’s economy through investment and reconstruction. Literally, there are thousands of people, agencies and organization working to help the Iraqis establish a stable society with jobs, schools and basic human needs.

The Department of Commerce has a lot of in depth information on Iraq, Commerce, Industry including rebuilding the private sector, the economy. Bravo and hats off to their efforts!

As I promised, once a week I will continue to ask the media, Take the Challenge!!

The Challenge: I challenge a major network to produce a weekly 30 minute program on the PCO projects. I challenge major and local newspapers to provide, free of charge, donated “white space”, meaning pages, to print these updates every week. Challenge your favorite TV networks and newspapers. Challenge your local radio stations to provide a 7 minute focused update. Dare them to cover these projects! I bet the media would find interested sponsors for this type of programming. It should be prime time. The people want to know and deserve to know where their tax money is going and how it is being used.

Happy New Year! Miram

Trimming the Fat and Diversifying Support

2005-12-28T15:34:00.000+01:00

I have linked the title to Andrew Erdmann's article, "After Withdrawal, Engagement," which appeared December 27, 2005 in the New York Times. I hope the link holds for a few days, before the "registration" requirement window pops up. Either way, I have saved the article and email me if you can not retrieve it.

Andrew has written a compelling article addressing the additional need for educational and programs including diversifying support and funding for Iraq, which has been the theme of many posts in my blog, this journal. I would like to rename it, “Before Withdraw, Engagement.” Why wait?

Back in 2003, when the US went into Iraq they assumed three things. The mismanagement, poor assumptions, calculations and chaos did not secure Iraq. Insufficient troops and equipment led the sparse US and British military to increase military spending which meant redirecting the redevelopment funds to military and security. This is a fact and an unfortunate one. Security is paramount in a post-conflict society, as Larry Diamond in his article, “What Went Wrong in Iraq,” confirms this basic need, “In post-conflict situation in which the state has collapsed, security trumps everything: it is the central pedestal that supports all else. Without some minimum level of security, people cannot engage in trade and commerce, organize to rebuild their communities or participate in meaningfully in politics.” Based solely this issue, already there was a shortage of funding for rebuilding and development.

Second, back in 2003 before going into Iraq, there was the assumption of a reasonable infrastructure within the Iraqi government and Ministries including education, municipalities, etc. Instead, after the Gulf war, Saddam used the sanctions as a tool, to impose ration cards, thus obtaining personal family information. Saddam proceeded to reduced services provided by the Ministries, including welfare and education. Core Ba’thist and loyal servants of Saddam not only maintained their status… some gained more, in the form of newly designed communities with swimming pools and other amenities. Then…there were the palaces. The majority people suffered in poverty. Over time the ministries became skeleton systems; most of their duties were for serving Saddam. The anticipated funding for rebuilding was underestimated compared to the actual cost and reality of rebuilding Iraq’s infrastructure including education, roads, healthcare, electric…everything.

The third point and please do not get me wrong, these organizations do work hard, develop strong programs and are a big part of the solution, is the work of USAID and other organizations in Iraq. Andrews states, “We should also increase financing for the National Endowment for Democracy, the United States Institute of Peace and other organizations that are helping Iraqis build and sustain civic institutions. Such investments cannot be postponed and must not be considered merely "supplemental." We need to lock them into our budgets today.”

Yes and No. Yes, we should continue to budget funding to these organizations but within limits. It is time to pass some of the batons directly to the Iraqi NGOs (Non governmental organizations, mostly nonprofit), organizations and educational institutions newly established…directly to Iraqi NGOs who have blossom from the original project funding and development. Time to trim the fat and redirect!

To understand my reasoning on diversifying the funding, there was a huge push to create Iraqi NGOs for sustainable indigenous development. We can see this push with many online documents, such as a document from the NGO Assistance Office, Ministry of Planning and Development Cooperation and the NGO Pre-Bid Conference. Many projects were developed and funded solely for the purpose of “civil society and community-building” which includes NGO development. USIP has a great publication explaining redevelopment and projects in Iraq (click here).

What has happened since the push (and incredible funding) for development of civil society including Iraq NGOs is the issue of accessing funding resources for the NEW Iraq NGOs and THEIR projects. Yes, I have brought this topic up in past posts and I am still beating my head against a wall on this subject.

We need to find a way to fund the new Iraqi NGOs directly and cut way back on the “middle man and triple man administration” costs. What does this mean? It means in some cases, not all, but enough, the money allocated for programs is given to an administrator such as USAID (and yes, there should some type of administrator for accountability and transparency), who gives the “programs” to a contractor to administrate, who gives it to another contractor to fund the “local projects”…or not.., but each time a piece of the pie (the money) is being used up for administration fees, program management salaries, etc. Click here and here for more information on this topic. How can this process be more efficient and less bureaucratic?

I would like to compare the local cost of the project budgets and how much money each of the project contractors and “administrators” take for their costs. The acceptable average for administration costs is 10-12% or below. It should fall within or below this range…Yes, there must be accountability and transparency for the NGOs but equally important for the program administrators. I am interested … how many newly established Iraqi based NGOs have been funded, which of their projects are funded,by whom, how, why and what and when. Or are these Iraqi organizations holding proposals in their hands without resources for funding and getting frustrated? My sources have whispered, why did they encourage us to start an NGO and now it is so hard to secure the smallest of funds for important projects?

Finally and probably the most important part of Andrew’s article discussed the need for more participation from the American public and private sector including universities and scholarships. Understandably, the universities in the U.S. and U.K. today have their own increasing fiscal problems, business concerns and raise their own monies through “projects.” There comes a time when a partnership between Iraq and U.S. universities should not mean a 10 million dollar funded grant. People’s time is money, yes, but can we get creative on ways to partner and aid the Iraqi education system without making it a very profitable business venture?

In conclusion, Iraqis need additional support and Andrew describes this beautifully, “But the United States government should not carry the load alone. Americans of all types - including educators, management consultants and municipal officials - can contribute and need to step forward. More organizations should follow the lead of Columbia University's Center for International Conflict Resolution, which works with civic leaders in regions of Iraq that are relatively peaceful. American trade unions, professional associations, educational institutions, journalists, students, human rights activists, scientists and business executives should establish ties with their Iraqi counterparts.”

I am going to stop banging my head for today…

Andrew Erdmann's article, "After Withdrawal, Engagement" New York Times, Dec. 27, 2005
http://www.nytimes.com/2005/12/27/opinion/27erdmann.html?n=Top%2fOpinion%2fEditorials%20and%20Op%2dEd%2fOp%2dEd&pagewanted=all

CPA and the Ministry of Planning and Development Cooperation
http://tinyurl.com/9wbc3

USAID NGO Pre-Bid Conference
http://www.usaid.gov/iraq/ngoconf_0417.html

USIP, Donor Activities and Civil Society Potential in Iraq
http://www.usip.org/pubs/specialreports/sr124.html

Accountability for Iraq Reconstruction Funds, Managed by the U.S. Agency for International Development
http://www.usaid.gov/press/factsheets/2005/fs051216.html

USAID Contracts and Grants
http://www.usaid.gov/iraq/contracts/

Christmas Message and Prayers

2005-12-26T03:09:00.000+01:00

It has been a busy day, but I did want to make a post and wish everyone, regardless of religious background, Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas. It is a reminder of Jesus (Isa’s) message of mercy, peace and love; a message to breathe every second.

Today, I made special prayers for all the Christians in Iraq, the Assyrians and the Chaldeans who have been a large population of the indigenous people in Iraq for thousands of years. Prayers for the CPT hostages, may their captors release safely these good spirits … prayers the Iraqi people will find Unity which will bring peace and abundance to the region and the world.

I will end this post with some quotes (different sources but the same Message as the Holy Bible) from the Holy Qur’an and the Essene Gospel of Peace in remembrance of Jesus messages to the world…the true meaning of Christmas, the Message…Peace

Holy Qur’an, Yusufali Translation:

003.045
Behold! the angels said: "O Mary! Allah giveth thee glad tidings of a Word from Him: his name will be Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, held in honour in this world and the Hereafter and of (the company of) those nearest to Allah;

003.046
"He shall speak to the people in childhood and in maturity. And he shall be (of the company) of the righteous."

003.047
She said: "O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man hath touched me?" He said: "Even so: Allah createth what He willeth: When He hath decreed a plan, He but saith to it, 'Be,' and it is!

003.048
"And Allah will teach him the Book and Wisdom, the Law and the Gospel,

003.049
"And (appoint him) a messenger to the Children of Israel, (with this message): "'I have come to you, with a Sign from your Lord, in that I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allah's leave: And I heal those born blind, and the lepers, and I quicken the dead, by Allah's leave; and I declare to you what ye eat, and what ye store in your houses. Surely therein is a Sign for you if ye did believe;

004.158
Nay, Allah raised him up unto Himself; and Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise;-

019.033
"So peace is on me the day I was born, the day that I die, and the day that I shall be raised up to life (again)"!

019.034
Such (was) Jesus the son of Mary: (it is) a statement of truth, about which they (vainly) dispute.

Excerpt: The Essene Gospel of Peace, Book Three

For the earth shall be filled with the Peace of the Heavenly Father, as the waters cover the sea. I will invoke the Angel of Peace, Whose breath is friendly, Whose hand is clothed in power.

In the reign of Peace, there is neither hunger nor thirst, Neither cold wind nor hot wind, Neither old age nor death. In the reign of Peace, Both animals and men shall be undying, Waters and plants shall be undrying, And the food of life shall be never-failing.

It is said that the mountains Shall bring peace to the people, And the little hills, righteousness. There shall be peace As long as the sun and moon endure, Throughout all generations. Peace shall come down like rain upon mown grass, As showers that water the earth.

In the reign of Peace shall the Law grow strong, And the Children of Light shall have dominion From sea to sea, unto the ends of the earth. T'he reign of Peace hath its source In the Heavenly Father; By his strength he setteth fast the mountains, He maketh the outgoings of morning and evening To rejoice in the Light, He bringeth to earth the river of the Law, To water and enrich it, He maketh soft the earth with showers; They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness, And the little hills rejoice on every side. The pastures are clothed with flocks; The valleys also are covered over with corn; They shout for joy, they also sing.

O Heavenly Father! Bring unto thy earth the reign of Peace! Ten shall we remember the words of him who taught of old the Children of Light:

I give the peace of thy Earthly Mother To thy body, And the peace of thy Heavenly Father To thy spirit. And let the peace of both Reign among the sons of men.

Come to me all that are weary, And that suffer in strife and affliction!

For my peace will strengthen thee and comfort thee. For my peace is exceeding full of joy. Wherefore do I always greet thee after this manner: Peace be with thee!

Do thou always, therefore, so greet one another, That upon thy body may descend The The Peace of thy Earthly Mother, And upon thy spirit The Peace of thy Heavenly Father.

And then wilt thou find peace also among thyselves, For the Kingdom of the Law is within thee. And return to thy Brothers And give thy peace to them also, For happy are they that strive for peace, For they will find the peace of the Heavenly Father.
And give to every one thy peace, Even as I have given my peace unto thee. For my peace is of God…. Peace be with thee

Iraq PCO Weekly Update

2005-12-24T13:27:00.000+01:00

Every week, Friday or Saturday I will continue to challenge the media to report PCO’s Iraqi reconstruction achievements and link to the weekly updates.

Sadr City has 15 sewage pumping stations rebuilt. This area of Baghdad was one of the most neglected under Saddam. In the past, sewage flowed in the streets, today they are clean. Furthermore, water treatment plants are being built and extensive networks of water taps are being located in homes.

Education in the UK has been provided for nine electrical engineers who attended the "Developments in Power System Planning and Management" course. This admirable educational effort should be extended to enable wise planning which is crucial considering the serious electrical programs which still exist in Iraq today.

The newly built Mashtal Employment center in the Tissa Nissan district provides job training in a rehabilitated bomb shelter. Sewing machines and computer training are part of the center. It took only 30 days to complete, yet another amazing accomplishment. It is stated more than 20 Iraqi workers were involved in the projects and I believe it. When the Iraqi people want something done, it is completed quickly and with dedication.

For the full report, go to
http://www.dvidshub.net/media/pubs/pdf_0781.pdf

The Challenge: I challenge a major network to produce a weekly 30 minute program on the PCO projects. I challenge major and local newspapers to provide, free of charge, donated “white space”, meaning pages, to print these updates every week. Challenge your favorite TV networks and newspapers. Challenge your local radio stations to provide a 7 minute focused update. Dare them to cover these projects! I bet the media would find interested sponsors for this type of programming. It should be prime time. The people want to know and deserve to know where their tax money is going and how it is being used.

http://pearlsofiraq.blogspot.com/2005/12/iraq-positive-reconstruction-projects.html

Pearls of Iraq: Part Two -Islamic Peacebuilding

2005-12-20T14:13:00.000+01:00

This is a continuing series on Islamic Educational Peacebuilding Initiatives in Iraq. For those who missed part one, click here. We continue with the prospect of developing a school focused on Islamic peacebuilding, dialogue and justice, including nonviolence…

Such a school would be a bridge to the diverse society within Iraq and offer education and better comprehension of the Islamic culture, regional and local subcultures. Additionally, participation and studies of the minority religions and their cultures -- including communication – would be researched and included in the curricula.

Here are the following recommendations building upon Iraq’s current foundation:

Committee for Islamic Dialogue, Nonviolence and Peacebuilding: Establish a committee with a diverse representation of Iraq’s population. This committee’s role is to explore and take action in establishing different educational frameworks to strengthen the existing peaceful and true paradigm of Islam in all systems -- including social, economic, community, educational, political and to equally involve all religions and ethnicities. The committee will build upon the following:

1) a combination of established Islamic frameworks for dialogue, nonviolence and peacebuilding,
2) applied research and development of innovative and fresh approaches to peace and
3) implementation of cross-cultural, multi-religious and Western theories and applications for International studies

Education: Development of the Iraq Islamic School of Dialogue and Peacebuilding with its own degree/certification program(s) incorporating proven Islamic approaches to dialogue and other equally strong methods for peace building, reconciliation and mediation. A firm foundation exists in all of these areas. Scholars and practitioners are ready to collaborate with Iraqi Muslim scholars in the development of the curriculum. This field of study will be taught to students and further research and development will be recommended.

It is imperative that this school be developed by the Iraqi people; scholars and experts in conflict analysis and resolution; and, most importantly, scholars of Islamic and inter-religious backgrounds.

This does not require a process of “re-inventing the wheel”, but merely the transmission of research and knowledge, and proven applications of Islamic principles to practical aspects of civil society. The school will support Iraq’s economy indirectly through education, training and jobs, but, more importantly, offer positive transformation for the Iraqi people within the local communities and organizations. These applications have positive influence when applied to development projects providing a constructive outcome.

This will be an unique school in the world, a premier institute in the field of Islamic international peace and conflict resolution. Graduates will be able to teach and apply their education and skills in Iraq and overseas. It is a strong national and international diplomacy strategy.

International Islamic Center for Global Peace: Establish the International Islamic Center for Global Peace as a working “think tank” structure to balance with other similar organizations and educational institutions in the global community working together for cross-cultural and interfaith understanding and activities. This center will with cooperate and partner with the Iraq Islamic School of Dialogue and Peacebuilding within Iraq. Its mission will be to support and foster research, conferences, skills training and diplomacy, including mediation. Additionally it will be a leading research and training center for the global community. Iraq has historically been a cultural, educational and spiritual center in the world. The school and the center are two symbols of this leadership.

Iraq National Initiatives: Develop long term goals as established by the Ministries incorporating the teaching of cross-cultural communication and mediation on all levels of the Iraq education system in diverse forms. One example may include skills training in youth community centers focusing on development, dialogue and positive approaches to conflict and mediation, thus providing a safe environment and support structure for the Iraqi youth.

Next Steps

The establishment of the above recommendations will propel Iraq into a leadership role internationally and diplomatically in the field of peacebuilding, dialogue and mediation. Islamic scholars/practitioners and people of other religions and cultures are working tirelessly together incorporating and instructing new frameworks and structures addressing conflict nonviolence, cross-cultural communication, peacebuilding and positive, sustainable development. Educational organizations and NGOs are cooperating collectively in teams to serve humanity and bring society to peaceful co-existence to society. A concrete educational structure and institute is the next step.

One of the major problems in the world, and this was tragically illustrated in Iraq between the US coalition and the Iraqi people, is the lack of education, understanding and misperceptions about both the culture and religious diversity in Iraq, including Islam. The above measures will be a historical landmark in education, understanding and bridging of the global society.

Thus, immediate action is recommended to establish the Committee for Islamic Conflict Nonviolence and Peacebuilding by June of 2006 or sooner. Also, further recommended is the development of the Iraq Islamic School of Dialogue and Peacebuilding with its own certification program under the Committee, in conjunction with the International Islamic Center for Global Peace and the appropriate Iraqi ministries.

Summary

Iraq, a role model and a leader in prolific solutions will continue to expand its respect and determination concerning innovative methods for peaceful co-existence and diplomacy in national and foreign policy. This paper discusses the argument for the recommendations, expands on the vision and provides an overview of the implementation of the recommendations.

To be continued…

Iraq: Positive Reconstruction Projects – Take the Challenge!!

2005-12-17T14:16:00.000+01:00

I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the PCO, Project and Contracting Office (PCO) to learn more about the very real, tangible projects being completed in Iraq. The communications department stated that they are coming up on their 3000th project but the news is not getting out to the public both in Iraq and the rest of the world. The American media has produced some positive programming the past couple of weeks, but continues to ignore stories on the positive reconstruction occurring in Iraq. Where can you find good news “now a’ days”? Click here!

The Challenge: I challenge a major network to produce a weekly 30 minute program on the PCO projects. I challenge major and local newspapers to provide, free of charge, donated “white space”, meaning pages, to print these updates every week. Challenge your favorite TV networks and newspapers. Challenge your local radio stations to provide a 7 minute focused update. Dare them to cover these projects! I bet the media would find interested sponsors for this type of programming. It should be prime time. The people want to know and deserve to know where their tax money is going and how it is being used. Now for the good news…

Highlights from an issue printed and sitting in my lap from “Projects at a Glance”, this is a partial list from the November 28th issue...

Schools: 22 under construction (and/or renovation as I dug deeper) and 774 completed.
Primary Health Care Centers: 142 under construction
Hospital: 17 under construction, 5 completed
Potable Water Projects: 96 under construction, 99 completed
Fire Stations: 30 under construction, 59 completed
Police Facilities: 127 under construction, 247 completed
Railroad Stations: 22 under construction, 74 completed (All aboard!!)
Electric Distribution Projects: 95 under construction, 68 completed
Electric Transmission Projects: 7 under construction, 9 completed
Power Generation Projects: 5 under construction, 14 completed
Oil, Dedicated Power Plants: 1 under construction, 3 completed
Oil, Water injection Pump Stations: none under construction, 8 completed

A detailed report with photos and focus stories comes out every Friday in the late afternoon. Bookmark the link as “favorites” and please, please spread the word! (Shame of the mainstream media for not having a 30 minute dedicated show/article concerning these projects) There IS positive reconstruction in Iraq.

Additionally, support Iraqi business and commerce as they continue to develop and provide training, jobs, products and services. The PCO office has been training and supporting sustainable development to Iraqi civil society. It is my hope that the private sector will join in the redevelopment.

Links:
TV Networks: http://www.tvwritersvault.com/strategicres/links.asp
Newspapers: http://www.usnpl.com/
Radio Stations: http://www.radio-locator.com/cgi-bin/page?p=states&xyz=11
PCO Updates: http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=pubs/pubs_show.php&id=201&name=Iraq%20Reconstruction%20Weekly%20Update

Elections and Answers for Rain

2005-12-16T22:21:00.000+01:00

The elections went very well in Iraq or so I think. Now we are experiencing the waiting game. Hopefully everyone will behave and play nice.

With the Elections came some much needed rain to Iraq. A few posts back, I asked for prayers, “Finally, word has it that there has been little rainfall in the Middle East and especially Iraq. Water levels are low which causes additional stress on the electric power there. I have been trying to find some hard facts but can not find anything. I guess years ago, Noah had the opposite problem… Anyway, today’s prayers are for rain in the Middle East and anywhere else in the world that is suffering from drought.”

Well, as you can see from the photo, the blessed rain is falling, finally. I hope they get a gradual rain over the winter months that will replenish the water storages and give blessings across the land in the form of good crops and spring flowers.

Iraqi Youth are more than the Future, they are Now!

2005-12-15T02:53:00.000+01:00

I love the Iraqi and Iraqi Kurdish youth the very best. Back in October during the Constitution elections they were the ones out in the streets showing support. Pictures sent to me shows this number has grown fantastically as we are hours before Election Day.

The Kurdistan Observer’s article, “Kurdish Youth Hold Key To Power in Iraqi elections” rings true. Heads up world, the Iraqi and Kurdish youth are here to stay. I do hope they do vote up in Kurdistan and across Iraq to buy more time for change.

I ask them to have patience and as time goes by because changes do happen. The “aging” men that are there now… will be to dust in the near future. Educate yourselves, continue to be clever and practice diplomacy, keep up with international issues outside of Iraq and learn solid business and professional skills. This time of patience is happening rapidly. It seems like each second is eternality but surely it is not, time only waits for the youth to arm themselves with knowledge, with conflict reconciliation, with advance skills needed to run a true democracy.

Tomorrow, go vote, buy more time, develop advanced skills, knowledge and experience and apply them now as best your can…because Iraq and Iraq Kurdistan need you. Soon you will fly and soar! They need the very best qualified people to rebuild and transform the country, you are it.

Pearls of Iraq: Whisper of the Pearl

2005-12-13T03:16:00.000+01:00

Shhh! quiet…listen
Whispering from a Pearl...
Speak louder, I can not hear!

“Oww! I whisper loud!
Do not ‘hear’ but listen…listen.

Listen and tell them.
We are here, we are Real.
We feel pain. We feel love.
We feel emotion. We think intelligently.”

Shhh, please be quiet, the pearls are whispering.
Whispers from a Pearl.

“Tell them we want peace.
Tell them about the baby Pearls.
Tell them it is our time to shine.
Please let us to shine!”

I have listened to you, but…
Who are you?

“I am an Iraqi Pearl.”

…
Author, Pearls of Iraq

Rural Building and Support for Kalar

2005-12-12T12:09:00.000+01:00

Kurdmedia reported the KRG is exploring rural reconstruction. “On December 8, 2005, under the name of “Participatory Rural Appraisal", a panel of several engineers and experts, including members of Kurdistan parliament and representatives from different ministers of Kurdistan Regional Government, held a two day conference in Kalar town. The committee invited engineers, doctors, professors, exports, professionals and other groups from different backgrounds in Garmian Region in order to organize and debate modern ways for the construction of the region which was severely damaged and partly destroyed during the now defunct Baath regime's infamous campaign of Anfal genocide in 1987-1988.” (click here for full article)

I hope they can take this thought and put it into action in the the whole region, Jaf and Germian...I had the delightful opportunity to travel to the new university in Kalar near the Iranian border in the deep southern part of Kurdistan and the administration is trying to build up a strong faculty. It is a fine facility. I had wished I took my camera but did not realize at the time we were going there (spontaneous trip). Kalar is about 1 ½ hours past “Blue Pearl” and is equally if not more breathtaking. We drove through the mountains and overlooking a lake and rivers. It is the perfect place for a resort and skiing in winter which could be possible commerce and industry thus jobs for the region. I am not happy with the maps online but found this map that shows the region and Kalar at the bottom.

What made the trip even more enjoyable were the three persons that accompanied me. As they were talking about the region, they knew I was versed in Kurdish studies but did not realize how much and when I looked over at the person driving, I said, “This is Jaf”, and he looked at me in shock. They were all surprised; I would be ashamed if I did not know all this after studying for years. Furthermore, much laughter was heard as they were seriously teaching me Sorani (Kurdish language) which I am determined to learn. It was a happy and wonderful trip.

We stopped at a small restaurant, standing lonely by itself. The food was excellent and the building seemed new. We ordered seconds, hmmm. The city of Kalar, in the Germian region (all tribal remember) in spite of the new small university, needs rebuilding. There is no doubt about this fact. Remnants of a beautiful city remain, but partially buried under garbage and disrepair. This region has been persecuted, as mentioned with “Blue Pearl” and neglected for too long. Kalar is between the Iranian border and what is “mainland” Iraq, which caused much conflict with Saddam’s military. If there was any region deserving TLC and rebuilding, basic services and advanced community planning…is this region, the villages and the city of Kalar. Economic growth and stability in the region would secure the area from less than desired external parties and serve the worthy people of this region. I support the KRG and industry rebuilding Kalar, the Jaf and Germian region, walk the walk; take immediate and planned redevelopment action.

More information on the Anaf of Germian go to:
http://www.humanrightswatch.org/reports/1993/iraqanfal/ANFAL5.htm

Pearls of Iraq: Islamic Peacebuilding, Part One

2005-12-10T02:41:00.000+01:00

I have received emails asking about Islamic peacebuilding. Therefore over the next few posts I will explain some of the paradigms and theories behind Islamic peacebuilding and dialogue versus Western traditional frameworks. Some of this material will be taken from my Master’s thesis, “Iraq International Educational Leadership Role in Dialogue, Nonviolence and Peacebuilding Initiatives.” This paper directly answers the question; it may raise more questions and was combination of six years of committed research and practice. I am not an Islamic scholar, but relied on the advice of Islamic scholars and other Muslim scholars. I ask Allah and readers to please forgive me in advance if there are any errors, as I am only human. This was written in love and dedication to my Iraqi people whose strength through difficult times never seems to waiver.

The world is watching Iraq. The Iraqi government and people are emerging as role models for strategic development and implementation of pioneering approaches to dialogue, conflict resolution, mediation and peacebuilding. A good reason for this is that Iraq is a country with a majority Muslim population. Islam is a religious system which not only includes spirituality and theology, but also a very detailed, structured and vast system of law and meditation. Its foundation is the essence of the Qur’an’s principles of behavior, coupled with the Sunnah (Grand Tradition) of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.

The Islamic approach toward peace is a leading framework in addressing conflict, peacebuilding and the various forms of dialogue. Applying the Qur’an and Sunnah to all echelons of conflict has been employed for 1400 years by the Muslims with great results in most cases (witness the glory of Andalucia). Advanced studies of Islamic forms of dialogue and peace-building have recently renewed interest and research by prominent Islamic scholars, both Muslim and non-Muslim. The research and practice of Islamic dialogue is structured into a curriculum of education for the purpose of further study, development and understanding within the Islamic Umma, reconciliation with other religions, cultures and socio-political institutions. Commitment to co-existence and transformation using Islamic principles in dialogue, nonviolence and peacebuilding is coming to the forefront to peace studies and compliments the conventional, Western frameworks.

In Yemen, Judge Hamoud al-Hitar demonstrates success with an aspect of Islamic approach in his program using Islamic dialogue to counter Iraq's Al- Qaeda prisoners with an Al-Jadal style debate and he is succeeding. Al-Hitar describes this approach, “"Before the dialogues began, there was only one way to fight terrorism, and that was through force," he says, "Now there is another way: dialogue."

This form of Islamic dialogue used by Judge Hitar is called Al-Jadal (dialectics), a discussion similar to a persuasive debate through provable documentation and logic. Other types of Islamic dialogue include Al-Hewar (transformative) and Al-Tahâwur (discussion) and the less desirable forms: Al-Jidâl (eristics), which is similar to Al-Jadal, but implies a higher escalation of the debate into argument. The fifth term is Al-Mirâ’ (dispute, quarrel), which means an escalated conflict communication. All of these are elements of Islamic dialogue. Unfortunately, most traditional conflict specialists are completely unaware of these different types of Islamic communication.

Educating and facilitating Islamic principles of dialogue, nonviolence and peacebuilding to the new generation of peacemakers is important for Iraq, for Islam (nearly 25% of the human population) and for humanity. When asked why I feel so strongly about Islamic frameworks for peace and dialogue my reply is simple: The Holy Books were given to creation for guidance. Wudhu, the act of rinsing the nose and mouth, and washing one’s face, hands and feet is conducted before reading the Qur'an and any other religious function. It is done out of respect for the Holy Word. Shouldn’t Muslims respect the guidance in the Qur’an and Sunnah by actively pursuing and applying the principles to peace and nonviolence? The Qur’an and Sunnah were given to humanity for this application, solving problems and for peaceful co-existence.

The benefit of the Islamic approach to dialogue, nonviolence and peacebuilding in combination with other developed theories and methods provides the Iraqi people with tools needed to continue rebuilding their country. A proposed school on Islamic peacebuilding and dialogue would exemplify Iraq as a global role model in the field of peacebuilding and will give an understanding of Islam and traditional cultural societies to non-Muslim cultures, particularly in the West.

Abdul Aziz Said, Director of American University 's Center for Global Peace and the Mohammed Said Farsi Professor of Islamic Peace once stated in an interview, "This is perfect timing for an Islamic school of dialogue and peacebuilding. The frameworks are in place and many people are now ready (educated in these studies) to make it happen.” It should be noted that Dr. Said has worked tirelessly during his whole career to develop the Islamic aspect of dialogue and peacebuilding. He hopes that this methodology will soon be revived. Such a school would be a bridge to the diverse society within Iraq and offer education and better comprehension of the Islamic culture, regional and local subcultures.

To be continued…

Jumping Around Iraq

2005-12-09T19:30:00.000+01:00

There are so many things going on in Iraq that it is hard to concentrate on any one thing at the moment. It is probably a reflection of my day, which is jumping from work to cleaning bathroom to laundry duty and back again. Cleaning allows space for reflection and meditation, scrubbing and pondering.

My friends at “Iraq the Model” are giving us interesting updates on the election progress. I thought on the incident of the Kurdistan Islamic Union in Duhok. Up in that area, at least, I am not sure the word Islamic should be used for any party, regardless what really happen there a few days ago. It is sad. In reflection of my research and notes, there is a growing division between the youth and the traditional Muslim community. Listening to them, I can not blame them. Between the Islamic terrorists and some of the stricter Islamic political parties the youth and other people are turning away from Islam. What these groups have done, especially the terrorists and insurgents, is make people flee anything that has to do with Islam, even if the group or party is good. So, maybe the youth got word that the political party was receiving funds from Saudi Arabia (that is the rumor which I have no idea if it is true) and did not want the Kurdistan Islamic Union participating in the elections. Regardless, what happen was uncalled for and hurtful. I will give the KDP the benefit of the doubt and will continue to ponder this incident with an open mind.

This leads to the ponderance and continued prayers of the four Christian peacebuilding hostages. They have extended the deadline, deadline for what? That the macro level system and policies will change for terrorist generated micro kidnappings? Many groups keep kidnapping and killing and nothing changes, except marks against their souls. In fact, at this point, whatever their message they wanted to convey has totally been lost and disrespected by their actions. Thus the use of terrorism as a conflict strategy is counter effective. I wonder if this group even did their homework on who these people are under their care? The Iraqi Sunni cleric community has stepped up asking for their release as have many from the Muslim community. I still think major protests and more Muslim voices condemning this action and others would be more than appropriate.

Finally, word has it that there has been little rainfall in the Middle East and especially Iraq. Water levels are low which causes additional stress on the electric power there. I have been trying to find some hard facts but can not find anything. I guess years ago, Noah had the opposite problem… Anyway, today’s prayers are for rain in the Middle East and anywhere else in the world that is suffering from drought.

Iraq, Rumi and Pearls

2005-12-07T21:43:00.000+01:00

First, blogger was having major problems a few days ago, so sorry for the triple post the past few days. This has happen a few times, the blogs do not come up and hard to post.

Moving on, just got back from a trip so today's post is going to be a Rumi poem, time to sit back and reflect.

What has the Fine Pearl to do with the World of Dust?

At every instant and from every side, resounds the call of Love:
We are going to sky, who wants to come with us?
We have gone to heaven, we have been the friends of the angels,
And now we will go back there, for there is our country.
We are higher than heaven, more noble than the angels:
Why not go beyond them? Our goal is the Supreme Majesty.
What has the fine pearl to do with the world of dust?
Why have you come down here? Take your baggage back. What is this place?
Luck is with us, to us is the sacrifice!...
Like the birds of the sea, men come from the ocean--the ocean of the soul.
Like the birds of the sea, men come from the ocean--the ocean of the soul.
How could this bird, born from that sea, make his dwelling here?
No, we are the pearls from the bosom of the sea, it is there that we dwell:
Otherwise how could the wave succeed to the wave that comes from the soul?
The wave named 'Am I not your Lord' has come, it has broken the vessel of the body;
And when the vessel is broken, the vision comes back, and the union with Him.

Eva de Vitray-Meyerovitch, 'Rumi and Sufism' trans. Simone Fattal
Sausalito, CA: Post-Apollo Press, 1977, 1987

Islamic Peacebuilder Speaks Out Against Kidnappings in Iraq

2005-12-06T02:32:00.001+01:00

I am posting a passionate and insightful article by a top expert in the field on Islamic peacebuilding and nonviolence. He is an academic scholar, scholar of Islam, trainer, educator, but more importantly, he has experience as a practitioner "on the ground" in diverse and difficult conflict regions. He has my highest respect and admiration. He is my mentor.

Speak and Act Before It Is Too Late: Let Go of CPT Peace Workers in Iraq!
Dr. Mohammed Abu-Nimer

The November 27th kidnapping of four members of Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT)—Tom Fox (54), of the United States, Norman Kember (74) of Great Britain, and James Lonely (41) and Hameet Singh Sooden (32) of Canada—who were working in Iraq in solidarity with the Iraqi people is another sad reminder of the severity and danger facing the Muslim and Arab world if continue to tolerate those “elements” or forces of darkness who operate from within.

As a Muslim, scholar of Islam, and practitioner of conflict resolution and inter-cultural dialogue, I find one of the most appalling and frightening aspects of the recent kidnapping the fact that such acts have become an accepted operating principle for so-called “resistance groups” in Iraq and elsewhere in the Muslim and Arab world. Attacking and terrorizing civilians, human rights advocates, relief workers, and peace advocates has never been an Islamic way of resisting occupation or fighting oppression.

In the past decade, many books, articles, and studies have been published by Muslims and non-Muslims that systematically explain and document that foundational Islamic teachings have never prescribed such blind, shameful, and undignified ways of fighting injustice. Scholars have tried to remind Muslims and non-Muslims alike that the primary message, strategies, and values of Islam have been based on peace, achieving justice through nonviolent means, and the extremely limited use of force. Especially in the period of Islam’s early formation, Muslim religious thinkers –Faqih and Imams—spent centuries defining the strict conditions under which force can be used, hoping that their effort would restrict and reduce violence. Recent Muslim scholars as well as peace and justice activists have sought to revive such work, including: Iqbal Ahmed, Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Jawdat Said, Sathan Anand, Khalis Jalabi, Abdul Aziz Said, Khalid Kishtainy, etc. These writings offer systematic interpretations based on authentic Quranic and Hadith sources, and the authors’ analysis and attention to textual nuance leaves no doubt that there is no religious justification within Islam for brutal and ruthless actions like beheading, randomly attacking Mosques, or terrorizing civilians of any nationality.

I have been one of those who have written about Islam and peace for the past decade; however, my work in this area has been accompanied by constant frustration and challenge. Offering cultural and religious bases for and interpretations of peace and nonviolent resistance, writing academic books, and conducting international conferences has proven to be a limited strategy in confronting this “evil force” in the Muslim and Arab world. These peaceful and academic gatherings are often aimed at the Western public and policy makers, to convince them that Islam is a religion of peace and is founded on the principles of pluralism and democracy. Such conferences hope to convince their audiences that such principles are not foreign to Islam (contrary to popular belief), but are integral and prescribed principles and practices.

Although this work is important and can possibly contribute to a reduction in prejudice and negative stereotypes directed at Muslims in Western public opinion, it seems to be based in the assumption that changing US and European foreign policy towards Muslim and Arab countries is at the proper first step in confronting “evil” Muslim forces in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, Indonesia, and Algeria. I think that this belief is an illusion, another way to cover our heads and escape the responsibility of looking inside the Muslim house. The real battle continues to remain in the Arab and Muslim homes and streets. A second tragedy highlighted by this kidnapping is that those Muslims and Arabs who are fighting the battle at home lack international and regional support and face constant oppression by internal political regimes and other parties in their societies.
Without the empowerment of such individuals and groups to organize, it is hard to realistically hope for success in blocking terrorism in the Muslim world.

Terrorist activities, like attacking three Jordanian hotels, killing people celebrating a wedding, planting bombs in restaurants in Bali Indonesia, or leaving explosives in a London metro station, clearly need more of a response from the Muslim and Arab world than the symbolic denunciation offered by a few Ulama or religious leaders associated with the state or political establishment. For most Muslims and Arabs, however, such religious leaders are often associated with state-co-opted forces occupying political positions to serve themselves and not the general public. Consequently, these voices do not convince the masses that such attacks should be condemned, nor do they reduce sympathy for those committing the violence.[MH1]

What needs to be done? Who can stop the madness of these forces? Obviously, this work cannot be done by one person, act, or group. However, the massive and influential Muslim and Arab public voice is resounding in its silence on these matters, even though it is the only force that can delegitimize such acts and marginalize the groups committing them. Despite all of its sophisticated weaponry, the American army cannot “flush” these elements out of society. They might be able to kill many of them and chase others away to underground caves and hideouts. However, they will eventually come back and renew their operations in different ways and under different covers. Unfortunately, many in the American public have not yet reached such a realization, or else deliberately ignore other alternatives of dealing with the problem.

Why doesn’t the Muslim and Arab public speak loudly against such terrorist actions? Several arguments could be put forth to explain this phenomenon. First, terrorist groups adopting such methods have taken advantage of the general public sentiment that the primary goals and practices of Western governments are aimed at exploiting Muslim and Arab national resources and at promoting Western hegemonic power over Muslim and Arab society and culture. Second, most Arab and Muslim regimes receive military and security support from the US and European countries despite oppressive internal policies that deprive opposition groups of meaningful political space. Such regimes constantly violate human rights and are mainly occupied with accumulating individual wealth or elite dominance. Third, many in the Arab and Muslim world live in fear because of state security apparatuses, which have been the main tool for governing throughout the post-colonial era rather than legislative bodies or publicly elected officials. Indeed, prisons are filled with thousands of political prisoners who dared to speak against the regimes. Fourth, economic underdevelopment and deprivation found within many Muslim and Arab societies has reached a level of desperation and hopelessness that it can be mobilized into support for acts providing temporary relief, venting of frustration, anger, or desire for revenge, especially those acts which are framed in terms of resistance to oppression. This process displaces blame and responsibility for the current crisis in Muslim and Arab societies onto colonial, foreign, and Western [Christian] powers, and becomes the easiest outlet for escaping individual and collective responsibility and best rationale for complacency.

We Arabs and Muslims who oppose these individuals and groups (al Qaeda, Zarqawi, etc.) can not rely on foreign forces and agents to clean our societies of terrorist forces for us. Arabs and Muslims must take to the streets and mobilize all of our social, cultural, and political institutions to fight these groups and their messages of hatred, exclusion, and blindness. When all those who oppose such actions and strategies, such as teachers, pharmacists, journalists, imams, housewives, and shopkeepers, claim the public space and call for their end, the credibility and legitimacy of such ideology and terrorism will become a religious, cultural, and political taboo.

Each and every Muslim and Arab is responsible for the kidnapping of the four peace workers who came to express their solidarity with and help the Iraqi people. Regardless of the existence of the above four reasons for public silence, for Muslims and Arabs around the world to not massively move and speak out against these actions should be considered a silent crime against our own future generations; it is internally destructive. As we have seen in various countries, groups motivated by hate and intolerance do not stop with kidnapping foreigners, soldiers, and women; on the contrary, they are capable of attacking their own people in mosques, restaurants, weddings, and schools. There is no “Haram” or sacredness in their view of the world, and their level of “ignorance” will not stop them from harming anyone in their society who thinks or feels differently from them.

We all have to talk, stand, and act with full capacity, using all available social and cultural space to delegitimize such horrendous actions. The Jordanian public reaction to the terrorist bombings was a promising glimpse of what can be done, as was the Lebanese response to the assassination of Hariri. Thousands of people went to the streets and many nongovernmental groups and associations spoke against the crime committed. Speak and act now before it is too late!

Mohammed Abu-Nimer is an Associate Professor of International Peace and Conflict Resolution at American University’s School of International Service in Washington, DC, and is the Director of the Peacebuilding and Development Institute. He is the author of Peacebuilding and Nonviolence in Islamic Context: Theory and Practice (University of Florida press, 2003) along with numerous other publications. He has conducted conflict resolution training workshops in many conflict areas around the world, including Palestine, Israel, Egypt, Philippines

Islamic Peacebuilder Speaks Out Against Kidnappings in Iraq

2005-12-06T02:32:00.000+01:00

How Can We Help? Another Pearl has emerged!

2005-12-04T16:16:00.000+01:00

In response to Isaiah’s comment, I am semi frustrated simply because everything takes time and I am looking for different approaches. Currently, I am still awaiting a response from the Ministry of Education about the “Blue Pearl” area and the possibility of building this “model” secondary school for the children. I have spoken to the proper authorities about this several times and still awaiting an answer on the status of the original school. My position, in order to continue positive development, must use diplomatic means at all times.

Funding seems to be the main hang up. Behind the scenes, I have several meetings concerning developments in Iraq and the possibility of a program, “Operation Donor Match” which would match corporations and individuals who have earmarked funds for projects with realistic sustainable projects and ngos (nongovernmental organizations) on the ground in Iraq.

For example, I have a man, super smart, intelligent and wise who has created an non profit ngo in the Iraqi Kurdistan region. There is a lot of support for developing NGO’s in Iraq but then those governmental entities pushing this idea fall short. There are few project funding resources for the NGOs. So they work hard developing solid program proposals only to get nothing.

I have spent many hours with Yakhi Balek on the management team of Kurdistan Centre for the Middle East (KCM) (please see their new website and go to “about us”!) discussing different projects that would have a positive impact on the civil society level. One example is training programs for young people to include job skills training, democracy, English and Computer classes and they need a program so that those students who could not graduate can get a GED certificate. Another suggestion is to provide additional youth recreation programs to fill in the huge void, like monthly sponsored skating parties at the beautiful local park (yes they have a roller blade rink) to promote wholesome activities. This would require only promotional funds and money for sodas, snacks and rink rentals. The Center has officially opened their office but I think they need fuel for their small electric generator and additional operating funds. It sounds so basic, but life there is basic right now.

This is just one example, of a young man who I call my Kurdish “son”, who is making a difference. His motivation and good intentions along with the rest of the management team at the center are my bread and butter, my inspiration! This is a beautiful emerging Pearl of Iraq, one that I hope will find success! They need help. We need a sugar daddy or foundation to work with them. If people do not have the funds to donate, technical help such as getting their name out (internet coverage, media interviews, etc) and introducing them organizations or people who can help is needed. They also need help with the website development. A few hours of time and support like this are as precious as money. You can write to Yakhi at karwan_kurdey@yahoo.com

In the meantime, tomorrow is full of appointments. There is a lot activity on my side going on behind the scenes to find space for people to help. It is requiring a lot of creativity and patience, but I strongly believe this hard work will eventually have a definite positive outcome.

Misc space

2005-12-03T03:37:00.000+01:00

Well, I just got home and my eyes are dragging on the ground. A good cure is Isaiah Know Nothing blog, especially the photos on his one post ( click here ). The top picture reminds me of Kurdistan when it started raining and the misty fog, very beautiful.

Later this weekend, I will be attempting to post more links to other blogs. Yesterday, I attended a blog training class but they did not get into the back door too much. I want to thank Rosemary for getting prayers out and recognize her interesting blogs, which are always mind stimulating, http://MyNewznIdeas.blogspot.com
http://loveamericafirst.blogspot.com
http://knickerbockernews.blogspot.com
http://capitalistrosie.blogspot.com

Charles Chapman has an interesting blog " The is-ought problem" and his writing is awesome. Some people have this gift while others, like me, have to work hard and have the grammar book by our sides.

Lawk Salih has a website with good solid links and practical information on Kurdistan, including the rising star...the Erbil Airport. Additionally there is an excellent Kurdish music section. This website deserves exploring! >> http://www.lawksalih.com/

And now to rest eyes, if only for a moment......

Black and White and Shades of Gray

2005-12-01T12:44:00.000+01:00

Many people have written me privately concerning my views on the Christian Peace team and their views on the war. This inquiry is good because it brings up the topic of black and white stands on issues and the topic of the grey or if you are wearing special glasses, the rainbow of choices between.

Every second we have many choices of what to think, say or take action or … no action. In the same regard, we do not always see these choices. We may see black or white. A famous black and white statement is, “You are either with us or against us.” When pointed out all the other colors or shades of grey between, the person asking gets very upset, because they wanted a simple answer and life is not simple. The rainbow may require them to think a bit harder because there are more options.

I do not wish to get into politics but I will say a few things and stick my neck out further. I supported getting rid of Saddam. This was never an issue, but it was how and the decisions made concerning the way was my main concern. Both the Clinton and Bush administrations were advised on diverse and extensive options to remove Saddam and the consequences of these multiple choices. Every second, every tiny decision that is part of the whole decision also has many options. I do not believe they fully comprehended all the options at the time and ignored advice they requested from top experts, both Iraqi and non Iraqi. Therefore, back in 2003, when the news broke and as time went by the first few months, I knew the way they went in and handled the situation was not the best choice that they were given.

Now, concerning the other issue, previously coming from a Mennonite background, I understand the Christian Peace group’s stand on pacifism. I do not agree with everything, of course not. I do support their work in peacebuilding and dialogue. Over time and understanding, I have come to realize that there is grey in between, especially when people need to be stopped blowing up hundreds of my beloved Iraqis and those who are helping them. So I respect many people, many organizations, the development of the Iraq military, etc. I can disagree with people on issues but that does not mean they are my enemy or they are the “other”, it just means we share some similar ideas and disagree with respect, tolerance and love.

Finally, it occurred to me even more clearly than ever about the kidnapping situation. What we may have is two groups, black and white, totally opposite of the rainbow. What I mean by this, the act of kidnapping is one of violence. We have the far left pacifists, a strong nonviolent group of people and we have the group of kidnappers. I do not know this group but it may be they are the total opposite of pacifism. The extreme poles could not be more pronounced. May God help both groups come to an understanding; perhaps that point when the opposite ends of a rope meet to form a new circle of understanding of the Oneness of Existence.

Pearls of Iraq: Free the Christian Pearls of Iraq

2005-11-30T13:48:00.000+01:00

It is 3 am. I fell asleep waiting for news about our brothers on the path of peace, the Christian peace builders, the Christian Pearls, kidnapped in Iraq. Allah most graciously awaken me to the news of the TV and as I was trying to get back to sleep the story came on…with old military men commenting…which made me sit up and get angry. Why do they put military cultured colonels on TV instead of nonviolence and peacebuilding specialists??? These military men do not appreciate the elements of nonviolence and peacebuilding and have no right to comment on this story. There are many excellent experts in peacebuilding and nonviolence, who can offer more understanding to the situation. They stated these groups should not be there, excuse me...try other methods for resolving conflict because obviously military force alone is not working. cause and effect.

I will say that parts of the military are working tirelessly on the civil society level including the US Corps of Engineers who are completing their 3000th project. More to come on their work and I want to say thank you for your dedication and hard work.

I can not comment on the Christian Peace group, but in the same situation, I would not want the military to use violence to rescue me, it goes against everything I believe, my core value system. In fact, not sure I would want the military involved at all for that matter. No matter what…

First, I would like the kidnappers know, this group is very special, they are the Islamic peace builder’s brothers and sisters. I have followed their work and belief system for three years now. They are there because of their love of God and to be of service to God’s creation, the love of the Iraqi people. They walk the walk and it would difficult to find any purer souls than this group. They are not far right Christians, they are not there to convert people. They respect Muslims and Islam. They are not spys. They are not only Not spys, it was obvious on the news the upper military “officials” greatly dislike them. They dislike them and the Islamic peace builders, wallah. The work we do eventually, inshallah, will reconcile conflict situations and put the “industry” of war …out of business.

Please do not ask for a ransom. Most of the people are poor, they gave up everything to serve God by helping the Iraqi people. Regardless of religion, peace builders are poor in hand…rich in love for God and service to others. You will receive your ransom in love, respect and dialogue. Maybe this is what the insurgency groups wants…dialogue, real dialogue. I will tell you, if you want people to dialogue and really listen, do not go to the military, go to these people. They will really listen, wallah. It is Islamic and Christian peace builders who should replace the military, inshallah, inshallah.

I will not go on and on tonight, people know the space I am in right now. I do ask that prayers be made to release our brothers who in their love for God and the Iraqis, are there to serve. I ask that this blog be given to this group if possible and will answer questions as best I can concerning peacebuilding and nonviolence. Fellow Islamic peacebuilders speak out now in support of our Christian brothers. I conduct Islamic peacebuilding but honor, respect and love my Christian peace builders, in particular, this very special group in Iraq, who have been in my prayers for almost 3 years.

"On the Day when every soul will be confronted with all the good it has done, and all the evil it has done, it will wish there were a great distance between it and its evil. But Allah cautions you (To remember) Himself. And Allah is full of kindness to those that serve Him." Holy Quran 3:30

"As to those who believe and work righteousness, Allah will pay them (in full) their reward; but Allah loveth not those who do wrong." Holy Quran 3:57

“Those who believe (in the Qur'an), and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians and the Sabians,- any who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord; on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.” Holy Quran 2:62

And finally…

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away...
And now these things remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
--1 Corinthians 13:1-8, 13

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and he who fears is not perfected in love. John 4.18

May the kidnappers realize the gift and blessings from Allah of these beautiful souls in their presence and release them to continue to love and serve the people of Iraq. Ameen.

Out of Town for a Week

2005-11-28T14:29:00.000+01:00

Greetings!

I will be out of blogger "town" for a week and there is no guarantee of internet. Check back around Dec. 4th. w/salaams, Miriam

Happy Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T15:40:00.000+01:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all. I was thinking, we thank God for the many blessings and then present another list of needs. Perhaps today a simple "thank you" is appropriate.

On another note, I came across a couple of stories about turkeys. It seems they are fighting back. A turkey insurgency led by some rogues named Tom. Tom Turkey. separate stories, here and here and...here.

Happy Thanksgiving and God Bless.

Turkey in Iraq Kurdistan and Thanksgiving in U.S.

2005-11-23T21:08:00.000+01:00

I backed out the last post because I keep getting conflicting information about the elections. Since this is political, I am pulling it out. Although I have and can conduct extensive policy analysis, etc. it is not my aim or goal. There are many people out there equally qualified. I will choose my battles wisely. We all have our assignments in life, this is not mine. So, I step away because it does not build a school. It does not provide positive cross-cultural or interreligious dialogue and there is something else that something that needs discussing. Turkeys, turkeys in Iraq, turkeys around the world.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, Turkey day in the U.S. Many countries have their own special holidays. Getting back to turkeys, I did not know that Iraq has turkeys. Actually, Pakistan has turkeys too. Just found that out today from a friend in Pakistan. Maybe there are turkeys around the world. I thought I had a picture of a Kurdish turkey but I did not, only a Kurdish peacock. So I am providing a picture of my family’s little Thanksgiving turkey from last year and a picture of a Kurdish peacock. Not that we eat peacocks, but I was surprise to see peacocks in Iraq. Maybe there are peacocks around the world too.

Talking with my son, he thought that maybe the world needs to have a Thanksgiving Day globally as a symbol of peace around the world. A day to stop, take a break from the fighting and grieving and give thanks for breathing, for family, friends and humanity. For those without turkeys, we will send them food. We need to send food to people that do not have food anyway. That would be the right thing to do. I guess it is hard enough to get even a moment of silence globally.

If we do this, have a global Thanksgiving day with turkey or other appropriate food, we better hurry before the bird flu spreads. What happens if a person eats an infected bird? I have not seen this question addressed. Hmmmm.

Turkey, Iraq, Terrorism and the Kurdish Solution

2005-11-16T09:34:00.000+01:00

Predictably, activity among the Kurds in Turkey is rising. This and other concerns surrounding Turkey’s nationalist stance over ethnic and humanitarian rights are having a direct influence on their Iraqi neighbors. Bottom line, Turkey has entangled itself in a web and must make some serious decisions in the near future.

I am going to assume that people reading this blog know Turkey’s track record with the Kurdish ethnic identity. If not, just google… “Turkey Kurds.” Turkey is so good at butting into Iraq’s business, let’s look at their business.

The PKK ( Kurdistan Workers Party ), currently considered a terrorist organization is comprised of 80% normal Kurdish people wanting equal rights, true democracy and aid for the atrocities in the past including many villages destroyed and refugees from the 1991 Iraqi events. The other 20%, once considered freedom fighters have turned to terrorism as a mode of conflict. This 20% recently has learned that being labeled as terrorists is not the outcome they hoped to achieve (they do not want to be compared to the likes of al-Qaeda) and can be swayed to put down arms.

The situation in eastern Turkey is so dire that the people are reaching out for help, once again, pleading for support of democracy (and I am talking true democracy in civil society throughout Turkey and acknowledging the Kurdish ethnicity) as a solution to the Turkey-Kurd conflict. The other 20% had previous cease fires only to return to more drastic and violent actions. I am totally against terrorism but we must acknowledge the deep rooted issues. There has been little effort on the Turkish government, down their ranks to the local level in acknowledgement, support and aid close to 14 million Kurds living in Turkey.

What does this have to do with Iraq? A great deal. I will concentrate on one thing right now. If you go back to my September post, “Traveling to Iraq Kurdistan”, you will notice that there are jihadists going thru the Turkey-Iraq border. The Turkish border patrol was gracious enough to grant them the appropriate paperwork and sent them off to the Iraqi side. I believe at that point they were stopped. al-Qaeda and other similar groups are already in Turkey but because of increased problems along the border in Syria and now Jordan, more jihadists are flowing into Turkey at this time.

On both sides, the border officials are so overwhelmed with sheer number of people crossing. It is a madhouse. Truck lorry lanes are miles long… double lane. On the Turkish side there were 3 offices opened for about 600 people or more the day I was there; it was a mob scene. The Turkish official heard everything but just stamp the visas. On the Iraq Kurdistan side, the Iraqi Kurds had more people working but stacks and stacks of passports were in front of them to process quickly.

Here is the scenario just on this issue. If the Turkish border officials tighten up their protocol on the Turkish-Iraq border by increasing personnel, better organization, profiling and questioning of certain people including those holding passports from Saudi, Pakistan, Jordan and Syria, it would send the jihadists back into Turkey. Turkey does not wish to deal with this problem, not at all, so they let them go through. Stamp, next. Stamp, next.

Turkey is at a fork in the road right now. If they recognize and give the Kurds the appropriate reorganization, aid, resolves the human rights issues; they will get in return the support of the Kurds in Turkey against transnational terrorists. This is a tremendous solution and win-win for both parties.

On the other hand, if Turkey continues with their current relationship with the Kurdish people, the 20% of the PKK who use terror and other violent acts has the potential of becoming psychologically hopeless and partnering in some way with the transnationalists (I find this a slim possibility because the PKK and the Kurds in general…in general…hate the transnational Islamic terrorists ideology. The Kurds aim is something totally different, respectful human survival within their Kurdish identity). An alleged al-Qaeda country hit list was mentioned lately and Turkey was left off the list. Big mistake or error.

Turkey is actually considered a non-Muslim state. It is a strict militant nationalist state and does not even allow women the freedom to enter government buildings including libraries with their hijab, head coverings, without problems (click here for an interest story on this). Transnationalists terrorists (if they really are Muslim, I do not see them as such, goes against Islam’s teachings) love an excuse to go on a terrorist spree and Turkey is a country the terrorists do not like. Turkey’s stance on nationalism over religion and ethnic identity, wanting entry into the EU, basic human rights issues irritates the terrorists. They are there now and with the situation on the borders, one can predict it is only a matter of time when Turkey will have increased terrorist acts from al-Qaeda and other groups. Not resolving the problem will give Turkey squeeze from both terrorists and the Kurds. They will have their hands full.

A word to the Turkish government, whatever you do, stop approving entry and exit visas to “Islamic” jihadists and passing them off to the Iraqis. Come to an agreement with your 14 million Kurdish brothers and sisters and you will have strong support against transnational terrorists including al-Qaeda. This is the year 2005; progress and take serious the current situation. The Kurds are the solution and a good one.

US and EU, if you support true democracy and really concerned about curbing terrorism, including the flood of jihadist going through Turkey’s border with Iraq, now is the time. It is time to sincerely support all the people, including the democratic movement in Turkey. Facilitate and encourage a Turkey-Kurdish agreement and speak out against the use of violence and tear gas by the Turkish military on peaceful demonstrators. Walk the walk and support change through civil society development and democracy in Turkey.

(The blogger who studies the Kurds both academically and professionally did not bring any of her Kurdish books through Turkey in fear of trouble with the Turkish officials and possible confiscation of her books.)