soaringwingsagainstwar

Gallows March

2007-01-02T17:38:00.000-08:00

All praise is due to Allah who can elevate one's status to the highest of heights or drop one soul down to the lowest of depths between the earth's core. Today is the first day that I shed a tear for Saddam, about whom I had mixed feelings. As a dictator he did commit horrible crimes. But then I ask myself, why isn't Bush being dragged to the gallows? Or Reagan for that matter? And then I witnessed the video on the news last night. Saddam marched stalwart to his death testifying to his belief in Allah (swt). Allah in his infinite mercy gave dignity back to Saddam. He did not die, as Reagan did, slobbing all over himself and unable to remember his own name.

Allah can forgive anyone. For those who are quick to dispel Saddam, I just caution you to take the attitude of African Americans of the old days. Whatever the "slave master" liked, they liked the opposite. I was watching Anderson Cooper the night before the execution and the reporters and experts were gloating as they described the horrors of snapping Saddam's neck. I was so disgusted that I was forced to change the channel. And then this video taken by a secret camera, reveals that Saddam was reciting shahadatain as he was cursed by his executioners. Saddam this one is for you:

Frame the reflection of

pain, hurt, dismay.

The wall encases the mirror

that our backs are up against

Humiliated by the wrongs we commit

we refuse to face the untruth

Tears and prayer cuddle in a warm embrace.

continuing to ease the inner soul

And the exterior face grimaces

as our finger points at our executioner

You see me don't you?

I recognize your hand and reach out

to take it as you continue passing the buck

Realize that responsibility has a bed.

It curls between sheets of fabrications and mudslinging

Our wombs give birth to the degradation of our own

enslavement and colonization

Look at the reflection.

Challenge the inner self to stand upright.

Dear Lord,

Change me and those with whom I break bread.

Nur is everlasting light.

Within it is a miracle and a rebirth

The embryo is small and fragile

It develops into belief.

We must continue to hope and dream.

The idealist in us reigns supreme over

our sour faced reflections.

Our hearts hold deep within them

a prayer for unity and freedom that

will be recited until the day when we are raised.

Say it with Me:

Allah is one.

Glory be to Him.

He has the power to change all things.

Save us from the punishment of the fire

Bring us Ease in Hardship.

Unite us Oh Lord,

Unite Us,

Ameen.

May the Peace, Blessing, And Mercy of Allah be with Us all,

Aaminah

Out of Darkness

2006-04-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Out of Darkness into Light I be
trying to remove the anxiety
That's killing me.
Afraid of the dark
So I cover up
I am smothered.
It envelopes.
Hoping and praying to God for serenity
Without him there is nothing else for me.
Peeking from the covers I am searching for
the hand of my brother
I need nothing more.
This hopelessness is strangling me
Are you listening to my tearful plea?
change the condition that's killing me.
Can't you see the common enemy
His hands on my throat
He takes my breath
And leaves a limp body
There's nothing left
'Cuz you's afraid of the boogeyman
He fooled you into thinking that
Not your problem...No need for combat
Don't you know He's full of Deceipt.
And that your conformity
Lead to the death of me.
I gasped for breath
Didn't want to die
Why didn't you help me?
You stood idly by.
Looking past as if there was nothing that you could do
or try.
And the truth is
That was a LIE
There are no innocent bystanders
with nothing to do
I may be dead.
But I'm not through
Break through the silence a united force
From God seek honor, He's the only source
'Cuz watching on is what a punk would do
Don't worry this tongue lashing won't leave permanent
scars on you.
And I hope desperately
You'll seek forgiveness for abandoning me
You can still perfect your humanity
before there comes a mighty blast.
it's all over...
Damn! That was fast.
Sorry if my cussin' offended you.
Wait a minute, 'cuz I'm not through.
Get off your Ass and do something right!
Don't wait another minute.
STAND UP AND FIGHT!

What's Going On?

2005-07-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

I am so sick and tired of people who profess to have consciousness staring at fireworks!
Why are you allowing yourselves and your children to stare at the night sky on the fourth of July? If you want to see fireworks turn on CNN. Our children and families are dyeing!

What's Going On?
Star spangled lies
Deception and disguise.
Red white and blues.
Cry at the news.
Wake up and see the light
Fireworks going off in our brains...
alright!
t'is A sham, t'is A hoax
Don't fall for the okey doke
of glitz and glam
This nation doesn't give a Damn
about you or your kids
If so why'd they place bids...
on ancestors in slavery?
Where is your bravery?
Stand up and be free
Don't buy everything they sell
What the Hell
is going on?

"Just Another Night in Baghdad"

2005-04-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

A second performance of the play has been scheduled for Sunday, May 8th at 3:00 p.m. The venue is the Black Repertory Theater, located at 3201 Adeline street in Berkeley, Ca. It is one block from the Ashby Bart Station. Tickets are $10.00 general admission and are on sale now! Seating is limited, so get your tickets in advance by calling 510-382-1213. This play is an anti-war, anti-imperialiasm statement. It is not only important, but necessary that one Listens to the Voice of the Oppressed. Come and Listen. God willing you will be blessed for your efforts.

Soaring Wings Against War

2005-03-10T11:06:00.000-08:00

We soar...
because we're tired.
Tired of walking,
past crackheads, and drunks,
Liqour stores with Bismillah backdrops.

We reach...
because misery loves company
and Freedom needs energy
Flavor Flav leaves a bad taste in our mouth

Tastes like vomit...
Up-chucking
the drudgery of backslidin' and
back bitin', bling blingin' and butt scratchin'

Malcolm said Make it Plain...
Plainly put-
Your government Sucks!
Sucks resources dry.
Sucks the truth so much it becomes nothin' but lie.

Goddamn Blood Suckas!

We fight...
because we're angry.
Mad at our people for sitting around bein Rock-a-bye-Babied
while bombs are droppin'
and hearts are achin'
butty shakin and gold teeth grinnin'
story tellin' and criminal actin'.

Everybody Rise Up!
Turn Down the Radio,
and Turn off The Television
Damn it!

Calling all Villagers...
We gotta raise our children!

Our wings are battered and bruised.
Bloody and bleedin'.

But we can still glide...
Because life has a promise of better days
And God has all the honor.
We must fly out of this desperate valley
and soar over the waves of oppression
into a horizon of
Peace of Mind.

Just Another Night in Baghdad

2005-01-27T14:22:00.000-08:00

"Just Another Night in Baghdad" is a play about the current occupation of Iraq. I wrote it. It is based on my conversation with a Muslim that currently resides in Iraq. I got permission from Brother Khalid, who lives in Baghdad, to convert his online diary (secretsinbaghdad.blogspot.com) into a play. I used his and other stories that I read and saw on the news, and created a play in which my drama students, grades 5th-8th could act. This play was painful to write, and I hope that it sheds light on the situation that our brothers and sisters are undergoing, Insha Allah. As people who live in the country that has invaded Iraq, I believe it is our duty to send as much money and assistance as possible. It is my sincere prayer that this play will be a vehicle for awareness and assistance to the plight of our brothers and sisters, God Willing, Insha Allah.
Please help get the word out.
Date: Saturday, February 26, 2005,
Time: 6:00pm
Place: Castlemont High School Auditorium, 8601 Macarthur Blvd. Oakland, CA 94605-4037
Price: $15 Individual $50 Family of 4, Children 3 and under are free
Contact: Aaminah M (510)382-1213 or Aaminahm@aol.com
Yours in Love and Struggle, With Peace
Sis. Aaminah

Hajj

2005-01-13T06:55:00.000-08:00

"And strive hard (in the way 0f) Allah, (such) a striving as is due to him; He has chosen you and has not laid upon you any hardship in religion; the faith of your father Ibrahim; He named you Muslims before and in this, that the Apostle may be a bearer of witness to you, and you may be bearers of witness to the people; therefore keep up prayer and pay the poor-rate and hold fast by Allah; He is your guardian; how excellent the Guardian and how excellent the Helper!" (Quran 22:78)

Oh Allah you are our Lord and Cherisher
I bear witness that their is none worthy of worship except you
and Muhammad is your servant and messenger.
I bear witness that I reject all other false deities and evildoers
I bear witness that I promise to give my heart to you and
that my love for you is never ending.
I bear witness against my own soul that it is not worthy of your mercy.
I pray that you will forgive me, my parents, my children, and spouse for
all of our evil deeds and shield us from the shaitan.
I pray that you will guide the Muslims on the straight path and grant us
victory over the enemies of Islam.
I pray that you bless the believers that are on Hajj, and that you allow us
to free Mecca from its Kings.
I pray that you allow us to attend Hajj and see your blessed House.
Henceforth now and forever you have all my love and devotion.
All Praise is do to You, Lord of the Worlds.
Ameen

Not a Damn Dime Day and Not a Damn American Life!

2005-01-11T22:35:00.000-08:00

Not a Damn Dime Day is January 20, 2005. Someone came up with the idea to protest the inauguration by stopping the spending for a day. I say, "Let's work on being in this country but not of this country." I say "Let's work on having a Not A Damn American Life!" This means, spend less, work more, study hard, and take no shortcuts. Difficult as it is, let's break the chain. I can strive to do it alone, but it would be so much easier if you did it with me. Avoid Target and Wal Mart and (This is a tough one) Starbucks. Let's work on spending our spare change on those who need it the most. Instead of $5.00 on a cup of coffee, buy a bag at the store and make your own. I've tried it, it works. I realized that I don't have to have coffee everyday. I also started drinking herb tea and I believe it is making me calmer:). Allah knows best. "I live a Not A Damn American Life!" sounds Great...Come on say it with me. It feels like a release doesn't it? We pray that Allah grant us freedom from the oppression of consumerism, waste and greed. Oh Allah, separate us from these evildoers. Help us to free ourselves of any similarities we may have to them. Let us live lives that are pleasing to You, Oh Lord. Ameen.

Coming...

2004-12-18T06:29:00.000-08:00

Victory is nigh, on this we can rely
and of a surety can't deny
That there is only one Lord, God on High.
Victory is near
and soon it shall appear.
It will blot out the wrongdoers and
make Allah's revelations clear
Therefore be patient and of good cheer.
Victory!
For those who believe
We fear not, neither grieve
Victory is at hand
It is a part of Allah's plan
to strengthen the band
of believers to a man
We will keep fighting
and do the best we can.
Victory is one hope...
We hold fast to Allah's rope
and with perseverance we cope
unlike the wrongdoers who slide down
a slippery slope.
Martyrdom is our other...
The witness is our brother
He'll tell Allah we prayed
and were patient with one another
He'll recall that we loved and forgave each other.
The martyr witness is our sister
Allah only knows how much we miss her.
She fought hard against those who would resist her
And forgave those who wished to dismiss her.
Victory, and the Garden is on the morrow
We'll stand overlooking the fountain
and watching the rivers flow
For us neither regret nor sorrow
We pierced through adversity like the fiercest arrow.
We are the best nation ever raised
May Allah's name be praised
There comes victory and better days,
Despite the hardships of this world's maze.
We'll cling together and hope for the best.
We'll remind ourselves that it is only a test,
sacrifice for our Lord, and attest to His Abundant Greatness.
We'll practice good deeds and righteousness
May Allah's name be forever blessed!

Student's Thoughts and Prayers

2004-12-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

The students read Baghdad Burning written by Sister Riverbend www.riverbendblog.blogspot.com. This is what they had to say:

I would get tired of running up and down just to see where the bombs came from. The bombs and other stuff they are using to kill Muslim People are useless. They can't just think that just because they have more weapons and more people than us, they will hurt us. The only thing they are doing is making more chances for them to go to hell and us to go to paradise.
Nafiysah Asaad
8th Grade

I'm sorry about Fallujah. It is being destroyed. People are getting murdered. It is not our fault. It's the dumb Americans. How many places have the Americans invaded? They invaded Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and even my country Sudan, and other countries as well. But don't worry, the Americans are going to lose the battles. They are just wasting their time. The Muslims in Fallujah have no clean water. What are they supposed to drink? Everyday there are bad diseases everywhere. Children are dyeing. The children and their families have nowhere to live because their houses are being bombed. Every minute people are walking down the street in Fallujah hearing explosions.
Tarig Musa
7th Grade

As Salaalmu Alaykum Sister River,
My school has been working hard to write letters to you and Brother Khalid. We have been studying your blog. They seem so sad because the American soldiers are there with guns and tanks. They are calling us Terrorists. But they are the true Terrorists. Muslims only have rocks and guns. We should be losing but we aren't. I never heard of the word terrorist until 911. The Americans think they figured out who bombed the planes. Now they are invading the so called "Terrorist State." If anybody was to be a terrorist it would be them.
Muhammad Asaad
7th Grade.

The Iraqi's Life
Hunger is Pain the the Iraqi's are going through
The Iraqi's are being tortured which means they are dyeing.
All the deprivation that the Iraqi's are going through and
Masha Allah they are still fasting
If anyone told them to stop praying before they died
They would still pray
The Night of Power was here and they were hoping to get
their country back
They are loosing their children
The families in Iraq are crying because their families are dyeing
Some soldiers feel bad for the Iraqi's and regret being there
George Bush, he's a fool. He made soldiers bomb their schools
Isha Allah Masjid Al Islam School will help the country called
Iraq.
Obaida Abdallah
6th Grade

Oh Death

2004-12-04T07:27:00.000-08:00

Oh Death,
I pray for Thee.
Bring me closer to My Beloved Lord.
I Pray to Meet the Blessed Prophet and drink
from his hand at the fountain of Kausar.
I want to shower kisses on the Beautiful Companions,
those who sacrificed their lives and property
For the most wondrous cause of Allah (swt).
Oh Death,
I call thy name.
Meet me in a way that is pleasing to my Lord.
I pray it be on the battlefield or
perhaps during prayer.
Oh Death,
Let thy face be welcoming.
I pray that you are smiling upon me.
When I see you I shall not turn in fear.
I will embrace thee like a trusted friend.
Oh Death,
I beg of thee
don't come to me in old age.
I dare not live a long life.
I hope not to be on this accursed earth
with those who deny the Most Beneficent.
I crave to die in my youth whilst
I have spent little time in sin and ingratitude.
Oh Death,
I Pray Allah to shield me from your
pain.
Let my soul be removed with ease.
Let my heart be open like a budding flower.
Let my eyes, that are blinded to this world, see
my friends the angels as they cleanse and shroud me.
Oh Death,
I am not afraid of you!
I pray that you do not long avoid me.
May Allah be pleased with us.
May we do his bidding and bring ourselves closer to His throne.
Oh Allah! My heart aches with love for thee.
I fear my soul will crack in two with the mention of
Your Lovely Name.
Humble me, and bring me closer to thee.
Oh Allah!
I beg thee to love me, and I fear that thou whilst.
For an ounce of Thy love will make my soul tremble and my heart ache.
Oh Death,
I pray I meet the in a state of submission
to My Guardian Lord.

A Day for Prayer and Remembrance

2004-11-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

I am remembering that there is a connection between all of those who are now, and have been oppressed. What is it? I believe that the connection lies deep within our souls. It can't be touched. It is the earnest truth of who we are. Somehow the oppressor refuses to see it. He doesn't want to acknowledge it. Because he fears it. He hopes to stamp it out. But it continues to grow and strengthen. It makes us powerful in the sight of the enemy and he detests it. The problem becomes when we, the oppressed, forget that we have it. We began to roam around blank-eyed and weakminded. We start to kowtow and condition ourselves to take on the characteristics of the one who has oppressed us. We want to be like him. We believe that he has something that we don't. We envy his power, and hope that emulating him, will free us. Thursday was Thanksgiving Day. The original Thanksgiving occurred in 1637 when 700 native men, women, and children were massacred. For the next one hundred years the murderers thanked their god for allowing them to kill so many Indians. Today, what are you thanking God for? Why do you celebrate this day of disgrace and shame? Don't you realize you are perpetuating the things that the Real God hates? Gluttony and Greed, not to mention murder. People are being killed. We don't have to travel that far to see this reality. Look out the window. The people are dyeing the death of the blank-eyed drug induced, hopeless. Where is your true self? Have you forgotten who you are? What is it that makes us connected and fearworthy? Is it Thanksgiving, and Gamecubes, xboxes, and spidermen? I once heard a man say "That is too deep to get under." This should be said about our realness, our trueness, our fighting spirit. If we ask God to give us strength and patience to overcome our enemies, He will do it. But it won't come easy. And it's not sitting at the head of the Turkey table. It's somewhere deep within your soul. Reach in and grab it. You're gonna need it.
Aaminah

Tyranny in Fallujah in Arabic

2004-11-26T08:56:00.000-08:00

Poem Written by Sister Aaminah Muhammad
Arabic Translation by Brother Khalid Jarrar
الطغيان في الفلوجةأنا مستاء ! انظر الى عيني.ألا ترى الغضب فيهما ؟ ألا تعلم إنني تعرضت لظلم شديد ؟بيتي قصف.لقد أدخلتم حثالاتكم الى مسجدي.أنا حزين أرى الخوف في عيون الناس. النساء والأطفال أصبحوا لاجئين انا مضطهد في الأرض. انظر الى أين وجهي.إلا ترى الدموع الملطخة بالدم تجري على خدي ؟ الا تعلم أنني لا أستطيع مسحها ؟ليس بعد الآن، ليس بعد كل هذا الموت.أنا ممتلئ بالمشاعر. انظر الى جسدي.ألا ترى نبضات قلبي ؟ألا تعلم انه موجوع من الألم والنضال ؟أنصت لصوتي: الله اكبر !ألا تعلم أنني أصدقها حق اليقين ؟ ألم تعلم أنه قدير على نصري القريب على جيوشكم المحتلة ؟أنا جريح. أنظر الى جسدي. الا ترى انه ينزف ؟ أما منعك ذلك من إطلاق النار علي حتى وإن كنتُ أعزلاً ؟ روحي تغادر. لم يبق لي الآن دم ولا دموع. أنا حر. راقبني وأنا أقف شاهداً ضدك. سأخبر الحقيقة عن كل ما فعلتَ. الا ترى وهج ضوئي ينير وجهي ويشرق على كل ما حولي ؟أنت ملعون ! أستطيع ان أرى وجهك ملفعاً بالسواد. لن تحوز على شئ من ضوئي.انا ارفض ان أشارك إياه. مُت بغيظك. ضوئي سيشرق حتى الأبد. والحمد والمجد والشكر لله. أنا شهيد ! إانظر إليّّ أتقلب في جنات تجري من تحتها الأنهار. أتناول فاكهة قطوفها دانية شبيهة لما رزقتة من قبل. انظر الى زوجاتي. جلودهن بنقاء العسل. عيونهن تومض بضوء الشروق. متكئٌ على أرائك من سندس وإستبرق. آنا في سلام. والجمال يحيطني من كل مكان. سأمكث هنا وأكون من الخالدين.
I am upset.
Look into my eyes.
Can't you see the rage?
Don't you know that I'm brutalized?
My home was bombed.
You brought your filth into my Masjid.

I am saddened.
I see the fear in the eyes of the people.
The women and children are refugees, terrified at the
coming of your army.

I am oppressed in the land.
Look at my face.
Can't you see the blood stained tears rolling down my cheeks?
Don't you know that I can't wipe them away?
Not anymore...not after so many deaths.

I am passionate.
Look at my chest.
Can't you see my heart pumping?
Don't you know it's aching from pain and strife?
Listen to my voice "Allahu Akbar!"
Don't you know I truly believe it?
He is in control of my impending victory over your occupation forces.

I am wounded.
Look at my body.
Can't you see it's bleeding?
Yet...you shot me while I am unarmed.
My soul departs.
There is neither blood nor tears for me now.

I am free.
Look on as I stand as a witness against you.
I will tell the truth of all that you did.
Can't you see my bright light as it illuminates my face
and shines all around me?

You are damned!
I can see your face covered in blackness.
You will have none of my light.
I refuse to share it with you.
Stand in jealousy of me.
My light will shine for eternity.
All praise is due to Allah.

I am shaheed.
Look at me in the gardens underneath which rivers flow.
I eat the fruit which is in easy grasp.
It is similar to that which I had before.
Look at my wives.
Their skin is as pure as honey.
Their eyes shimmer with the light of sunset.
I rest on the soft couch made of rich brocade.

I am at peace.
And beauty is all around me.
I will dwell herein forever...

Prayers for Bro. Khalid

2004-11-24T13:47:00.000-08:00

As Salaamu Alaikum brother Khalid. I was very happy you were able to make it to the internet cafe and respond to our voices. Alhamdulillah you were able to share some of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) voice to the world. I know you need help at this point in time. I want to let you know that I'm on your side. And want you to know that if there is anything that I can do to help send me a letter at www.soaringwingsagainstwar.blogspot.com and I will do whatever I can. As salaamu Alaikum, Mohamed Sbeih - 7th Grade

Thank you for your prayers and Insha'Allah you will get out of this soon. Insha'Allah, Allah will give you the strength to hold on. Thank you for striving to give us this email. Insha'Allah if you die you will be a martyr. Remember, we will still care. As Salaamu Alaikum, Amin, Yusef Yasin - 8th Grade

As Salaamu Alaikum Bro. Khalid Jarrar,
I truly do care about you, and pray for you, and for other muslims.
I feeling bad because of what you and other muslims are going through, and how you are struggling. It is truly a terrible feeling. I will try to be the best in everything that I do, Insha'Allah. The thing that I really want to be the best in is an Archaelogist. I will,. Insha'Allah, do everything I can to help you and other muslims all over the world. Motez Musa - 5th Grade

I am so happy to hear from you. I have not heard from you in a week. How are you doing over there? You are really funny. I liked your letter very much. I still have your first letter. I just got your letters in class today. I hope to hear from you next time. I will keep you in my prayers. I will pray for you. Rayya Bradshaw - 6th Grade

Today when I got this blog I started to feel like you really are striving to talk to the students at Masjid Al Islam School. Also, I think you are a person who is trying his hardest to protect his country and putting yourself through danger just going out to the internet cafe. Well, if I were in your shoes, I would do the same thing. Today, you are talking about being patient and being strong muslims. You say we should be the best at everything. Which basically you are saying to me that we need to stand up and stop being lazy. Muhammad Asaad - 7th Grade

Dear Bro. Khalid,
As Salaamu Alaikum. How are you doing? We are doing well. All of Masjid Al Islam School, including our teachers, were moved by your letter. We are happy you wrote us a letter. We will be patient with you and your country. We want to help all of you, therefore we are going to make a play about Iraq. With the money that we make, we are going to send it to Iraq. Insha'Allah it will be enough to buy food. When you said that we needed to be stronger at something, well Insha'Allah, I will the best at being a nurse. I want to help children around the world. I was watching the news with my family and I heard that the Americans are sending troops to Iraq. May Allah help your people in Iraq. Sincerely, Obeidah - 6th Grade

Bro. Khalid,
Your blog is very good. I can't imagine how hard it is to email us. Insha'Allah the Americans will leave and you can email us all you want. I get happy when you write us. Do you know the question that you put in the email? The first one is am I strong enough to take a challenge? I'm sort of because I already picked a carreer and I'm trying very hard for it. I want to become a doctor. I hope they'll accept me, eventhough I wear a scarf. The second question was? Am I strong enough to reach my goal? Insha'Allah, only Allah (SWT) knows. I will try hard to earn it. I hope you read this if you can. Insha'Allah, Iraq will be free. Daulette Maghoub - 7th Grade

As Salaamu Alaikum,
Every word you said shows that you care about the muslims all around the world. And so do my family, friends, and I. We are strong and smart. We should send medicine to muslims around the world. Not only Palestine and Iraq. Everywhere I go I feel there is more and more pain in Iraq. I feel terrible. It will affect everybody around the world. One day, Insha'Allah, we will defeat our enemies. Allah will bless you and help you to survive in Iraq and face the non-muslims. He helped my family years ago in Sudan. They were bombed, shot, and buildings fell. This might happen to the Americans. Allah (SWT) will take us to heaven. The non-muslims will go to hell. All the muslims must stand up and fight. As Salaamu Alaikum, Rahmatullah, Barakatuh. Bro. Tarig Musa - 7th Grade

Mobility=Movement

2004-11-23T15:25:00.000-08:00

At Ar-Rabadha I met Abu Dhar who was wearing a cloak, and his slave, too, was wearing a similar one. I asked about the reason for it. He replied, "I abused a person by calling his mother with bad names." The Prophet said to me, 'O Abu Dhar! Did you abuse him by calling his mother with bad names You still have some characteristics of ignorance. Your slaves are your brothers and Allah has put them under your command. So whoever has a brother under his command should feed him of what he eats and dress him of what he wears. Do not ask them (slaves) to do things beyond their capacity (power) and if you do so, then help them.' " (Muslim)

We do not even treat our brothers and sisters in faith with the same respect, honor, or humility? If a slave can get this treatment during the time of the Prophet, then can we assume that we really have to reflect on the fact the we are unraveling as an Ummah. Why do we disregard the treatment and feelings of our brothers and sisters in faith, and devalue the people who do not hold the same worldly status? Are our worldly gains more important? Sudan is a prefect example. Do we really want for our brothers and sisters in faith and struggle what we want for ourselves?

We are fighting a noble fight against the west right now, but the true struggle is still within our own hearts. We can not withstand the evilness of the world if there is evilness in our own hearts. How can we ever be an example if our intentions are selfish? The best form of Dawah (invitation) is your example. Let's strive to be a better example.
Abu Bakr once encouraged a companion to be mindful of his prayers. He told the brother that we must get up and extinguish the Hellfire that we have created for ourselves.( self explained Hadith) Even if we struggle in our daily efforts we should remember why we chose the belief of Al-Islam, and be mindful to make our intentions pure in seeking Allah(swt) pleasure. Coming out of Ramadan is a spiritual evaluation and cleansing. Let us take that as your mobility in facilitating our steps toward struggle and global improvement. Many of the pathogens of evilness are rooted in man's greed and love of this life. May Allah give us victory in this life and the next. I am posting this for myself and whoever needs this moment to............. reflect! Masha' Allah
Mobility=Movement
Isa Abdul-Aziz

WE

2004-11-20T11:39:00.000-08:00

Playtime is Over.
Sisters don't dance while your children die.
Brothers give your zakat to Muslim Warriors.
They are hurt and bleeding.
There is charred glass cutting their flesh.
Yet fear engulfs US?
We desire to ignore them.
We are spinning, twisting, and twirling around in
a whirlwind of confusion.
We turn to flee the scene.
But they grab us.
We can't move.
We are forced to acknowledge the blood and heartache.
Why is it we do nothing?
We are held hostage.
Prisoners of our own cowardice.
We must turn and face them.
We look deep into their eyes and see our own souls.
We are one and the same.
We can never be released.
Our hearts are bound together.
Their pain is our ache.
They are cut and our blood flows.
Oh Muslims, We are one body.
Two hands to hold firmly to Allah's rope.
Two feet firmly planted.
One fearless heart begging for forgiveness.
One soul in need of purification.
There is nowhere to run.
Again, Playtime is Over.
Stop ignoring this responsibility.
We must arise and warn of the coming of a mournful day.
Remember, the coward will be in the flames!

Tyranny in Falloojah

2004-11-16T10:55:00.000-08:00

I am upset.
Look into my eyes.
Can't you see the rage?
Don't you know that I'm brutalized?
My home was bombed.
You brought your filth into my masjid.

I am saddened.
I see the fear in the eyes of the people.
The women and children are refugees, terrified at
the coming of your army.

I am oppressed in the land.
Look at my face.
Can't you see the blood stained tears rolling down my cheeks?
Don't you know that I can't wipe them away?
Not anymore...not after so many deaths.

I am passionate.
Look at my chest.
Can't you see my heart pumping?
Don't You know it's aching from pain and strife?
Listen to my Voice "Allahu Akbar!"
Don't you know I truly believe it?
He is in control of my impending victory over your occupation forces.

I am wounded.
Look at my body.
Can't you see it's bleeding?
Yet ...you shot me while I am unarmed.
My soul departs.
There is neither blood nor tears for me now.

I am free.
Look on as I stand as a witness against you.
I will tell the truth of all that you did.
Can't you see my bright light as it illuminates my face and shines
all around me?

You are damned!
I can see your face covered in blackness.
You will have none of my light.
I refuse to share it with you.
Stand in jealousy of me.
My light will shine for eternity.
All praise is due to Allah.

I am shaheed.
Look at me in the gardens underneath which rivers flow.
I eat the fruit which is in easy grasp.
It is similar to that which I had before.
Look at my wives. Their skin is as pure as honey.
Their eyes shimmer with the light of sunset.
I rest on the soft couch made of rich brocade.

I am at peace.
And beauty is all around me.
I will dwell herein forever...

All of my love and prayers and thoughts are with you brothers and sisters in Iraq. I promise to do what I can to help. Allah will bless our efforts. One of my students, Motez wrote a poem that is below. Allah bless the Muslim and turn us into believers. Sis. Aaminah

Motez 5th grade
I don't like it when people fight in wars.
Lots of people die when they suffer a lot.
All the rich people are killing the poor.
They are destroying their buildings.
Playing isn't their suggestion.
They are getting humiliated while they are depressed.
The Americans are the terrorist not Binladin.
The Iraqi`s are in pain and they are not healthy.
I`m not happy when they struggle.
Bush is risking lives and getting more rich.
I don`t like it when the good are oppressed.
It`s really stupid how the Iraqi`s are losing lives.

Calling Palestine!

2004-11-11T06:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we celebrated the night of power. Subhana Allah. He is so gracious and merciful to his servants. Thank you for sending us our beloved prophet and the Glorious Quran for guidance. It is an honor to be a Muslim. We ask Allah to grant us victory over the wrongdoers.
I have three thoughts about the death of Yasser Arafat.
#1 If the US and the Israelis didn't like him than their must have been some good in him. Allah knows best.
#2 This is a reminder to us all that we have to meet our Rabb again someday. It maybe soon.
#2 Allah has a plan for all of creation. Therefore it is my prayer that Allah will send the Palestinians a leader who liberates them from occupation. "Do not be fainthaearted crying for peace, for you will surely gain the upperhand. Allah is on your side and will never let your deeds be wasted." Quran 47:29

Our Children's Voices

2004-11-10T13:00:00.000-08:00

We asked the students to create poetry which shares their feelings about Iraq. And they also wrote a response to Bro. Khaled Jarrar's blog spot posted Oct. 16, 2004. (www.secretsinbaghdad.blogspot.com)

Tahirah, Gr. 6th:
A Struggle is a sad thing
The Iraqi people are civilians
The children are pure
Our religion is Islam
We find happiness in our freedom
The soldiers are bombing their houses
The country is Iraq
The Iraqis are innocent
To us Muslim's martyrdom would be bravery.

Rayya, Gr. 6:
So mad because of lost lives
Cry when country is detroyed
People are suffering because of bombing
People are harmed in war and lost loved ones
People are losing jobs and people are bombing cars
There is so much danger in the war
Innocent people lose lives and dieing in war
We feel sadness because of loss of lives.

Kashif, Gr. 6:
Americans are lieing
People are dieing
Window's are falling
The muslims are hiding
Blood is dropping
The Iraqi's are praying
While the American's are killing
The muslim's are living
and the American's are coming
Loved one's are crying
and Bush is laughing.

"Tell Me a Secret"
Daulette, Gr. 7:
My feelings for this is very sad and strong. It's sad and strong because the way he talks about Bush and Iraq. It is sad to me because Iraq is getting bombed everyday, and every second and little kids are getting killed, and old people frightened. I think that's sad. To me, it is strong because he talks about stuff that is true and not lies, and because he had deep words. In the middle he sort of gets kind of mixed up because the Muslims in America are working very hard and so are other Americans, and he thinks our lives our easier than others. This blog is very great and Insha'Allah I'll read it over and over gain. Also, Insha'Allah other people will read and understand this blog, and Insha'Allah Iraq will be free.

Obaida, Gr. 6:
I think that was a sad story Bro. Khaled told. I think that he wants us, the people who read his story, to help their country; and we will , help their country. We will try and do what ever we can to help them save their country. I also think that he was telling the truth about the soldiers that had died. What I mean by that is the dead soldier had blood like him.

Nailah, Gr. 5:
Brother Khaled,
When you said, "a helmet covered in blood and a wife became a widow, a child became an orphan, a girlfriend, a bestfriend were all missing a loved one" I felt like Astaghfir Allah. Because Bush is killing people in order to get rich. :( I'd like to help by getting: food and water and more medical equipment. I feel the same way you feel about Iraqi people. Bush, he lies to all people in America. I feel like crying right not, but no tears come out. :(

Yusef, Gr. 8:
Hi! or peace be upon you. I like this month too because it makes you more grateful for what food you have. God knows! God knows! May Allah or God curse them for this treachery and war to the Americans for how many sins they've gone through without asking forgiveness. They will burn in the fire for sure. I hope you and your family are doing fine and you can get out of this mess with Allah's blessings and get as many blessings as possible. As Salaamu Alaikum, wa Rahmatullah, wa Barakatuhu.

Mohamed, Gr. 7:
Hi, my name is Mohamed S.. I attend Masjid Al Islam School. I am in the 7th grade. My teachers are very nice here, especially my English teacher, Sis. Aaminah. I heard you are from Iraq. Isn't that one of the occupied countries in the middle east? Insha'Allah, Allah will bless you and your family to have a peaceful country. I am from Palestine. My people have been occupied for over 50 years now. Barely anyone notices that they are being killed everyday. I know how you feel. It is hard to live and know that your people are being killed and not doing anything about it. I think your blog was sad.

Ramadhan Demonstration

2004-11-09T22:20:00.000-08:00

A difficult situation
Is causing our frustration
To suffer is my suggestion
In a struggle against oppression
And fighting in retaliation
Leaves dieing as an interpretation
And Faith as a realization
of Allah's control of HIS creation
A better future is in estimation
When life is filled with devestation
Islam must be our motivation
And Allah is our heart's infatuation
In HIS love forever there's beautification
And A determination
for a paradise celebration
It's time for a Ramadhan Demonstration
We agree to no more perpetration
of any idiotic allegation
Let's stand for no hallucination
and denounce the Bush Administration
Who desire to obtain domination
and destroy Islamic unification
But, Insha Allah to their aggrivation
Their aggression causes Muslim revitalization
and equals our gravitation
to a Higher Elevation
Oh Allah, Cleans our souls in preparation
for the day we meet in Resurrection.

This is a love poem I wrote to the Muslim Ummah. On this night before the "Night of Power" I send out my duah that we all pray for an Islamic victory against the "War on Islam." Remember, Allah's promise is always true. How often has he helped a small force against a big one? Fallujah, we are with you! Our hearts bleed with your bodies. We do want to fight this wrongdoing. We need all the help we can get. Prayer is best. Promise to pray for Iraq. If we are all united in prayer then Allah will unite our hearts.
Sis. Aaminah

Struggling For Donations

2004-11-09T13:47:00.000-08:00

As Salaamu Alaykum:
I had my students write essays about Iraq. We live here in the states. My seven year old son wanted to do something for the Iraqi's. He suggests we move to Iraq and fight the oppressors. Muslims in the states, what a rare comodity? Anyway, we want to assist in the efforts to donate to Iraq and prevent the war! We hate this war and what it is doing to our Muslim Brothers and Sisters. We started off with a can food drive idea. I saw that the Blue Mothers were sending the soldiers toiletries. Funny, how they get to be comfortable when they're bombing peoples homes. I guess they'll smell nice when they break in to your home and take your spouse away. I looked into it, and it is hard as heck to get donations to Iraq. Some Muslim Americans are afraid of sending money because of deportation. I was even told to contact the state department. Excuse me? I am a black American, I joked, where would they send me, back to Africa? My students get the joke. But I guess it's not that funny to some. Anyway, we are going to post journal entries that state our feelings on this sham of a war. We will lash out with our tongues and our computers. Also, I am hoping to produce a children's play and send the money we collect over to Iraq. Allah will bless our efforts. I can feel the blessings already. Ramadhan Mubarak!
Sis. Aaminah