No Mosque

It makes me very sad to see the protests around this country regarding the building of mosques. I understand that 9/11 was a great tragedy for this nation. I know how many lives were lost, and I understand that mourning needs to occur. Still, I wish it could be different.

The vast majority of people who practice Islam are not terrorists. Islam is a religion that preaches peace, however, there is a sect of Muslims who believe in terrorism. It is really not unlike other religions or groups. There are extremists everywhere. There are people who call themselves Christians, yet believe it is their duty to kill doctors who perform abortions. It just seems that many Americans can't see that not everyone who wants to build a mosque is an extremist who will bring terrorism to our nation.

I think these protests send such a bad message to the rest of the world. We are supposed to be the land of tolerance - a place that was founded on the notion of freedom of religion. Isn't that why the first settlers from Europe came here?

Perhaps a location so near to Ground Zero may not be the best place for a mosque or a Muslim Cultural Center. Maybe it is too soon. Still, I believe that we need to remember the principals that are the foundation of this great nation. We need to continue to exercise those freedoms that we hold so dear and allow these mosques to be built around the country. Perhaps then, and only then, the true healing of this nation can occur.