Loyalty to My Nation is Part of My Faith

My Dear Fellow Americans,

I was 11 years old when I first heard about one of the most tragic and heart wrenching incidents ever to occur in American history. It was all over the news. The disturbing images and video clips of two airplanes crashing into the Twin Towers kept playing over and over again. As a young Muslim girl, who just started her first year in middle school, I was scared and fearful for what was yet to come. In 6th grade, where everyone just wants to be liked and to “fit in”, I felt as if I was already being labeled and judged for the wrong reasons. However, every time I opened those school doors, walked the hallways, or go out in the public, I always reminded myself that I belong to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, that follows the true teachings of Islam, which forbids violence and any kind of disorder to mankind. We are not from among those who commit acts of violence and terror against their own country because our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) has taught us that the “Love of one’s country of residence is part of our faith”.