We tend to forget that there is a reason our Muslim brothers and sisters are stronger (yes, they really are) in their faith and their conviction than other religions. From MDI: Muslim Debate Initiative:
“So why does God command the Muslims to all face towards the Kaaba when praying? The reason behind this is down to unity, in sharing the same focal point of prayer, it is meant to show a major unity amongst the Muslims. Indeed, when one thinks of it, it is a very impressive feature that you have more than 1 billion Muslims, no matter where they are, all praying in the same direction.
Muslims pray their 5 daily prayers towards the east, towards the city of Makkah, and more specifically, towards the Kaaba. The Kaaba is a small cubical structure, which is called the sacred house (bayt al-haram) and also referred to as the sacred mosque (masjid al-haram). The prayer direction towards the kaaba, is known as the Qibla, which basically means the prayer direction of the Muslims.
Something that should also be clarified, is that it is only in the Muslim prayers that Muslims are to face towards the east, for example if a Muslim simply wants to supplicate to God, known as ‘dua’ in Islam, he/she doesn’t have to be facing towards the east for that.”
Why do we wonder how it is that they are able to maintain such equanimity in the process of world domination? It’s pretty clear to me. The undeniable power of positive focused intention and prayer as a group is stunning ― if others were able to have this sort of faith and unity, imagine what we could accomplish.
Thus, a proposal (for our group, not for world domination! LOL!) ― for us to pray where ever we are once a day during the New Moon to the Full Moon. I will do my best to mindfully take a few minutes daily at 11:00 a.m. for conscious meditation on those who have asked us to pray for them. I have been doing this daily for over 15 years, but never at a specific time for prolonged periods. Typically it is several times a day, which I will continue to do; although now I have a reminder set on my iPad & cell phone for this month. Just to see if I am capable of this kind of dedication at a specific moment.
In closing I suggest that we recognize that the vast majority of Muslims are peaceful and kind, and we should begin to respect their continuity as a whole. They’re just as horrified by the vile actions of terrorists as everyone else. Think about it. If they weren’t, I wouldn’t be here to write this note, and many of you wouldn’t be allowed to read it even if I was able to sneak a thought across enemy lines.
Remember to give light, and the darkness will disappear of itself.
May you be well, may you be happy.
― Rev. Sarah Nash
