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Why Witness?
With this blog, I hope to provide new insights, break down misconceptions, and spur thoughtful discussion on topics of religion, culture, politics and social justice. I write particularly on issues of comparative religion (between Islam and Christianity) and Islamophobia in post-9/11 America. I also write about my Catholic faith, American politics, journalism, and the Middle East.
The goal of a writer, a Christian, and a Muslim, is to be a witness to a greater Truth. Hence, the blog's title.
“You are my witness…and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am He.” Isaiah 43:10, the Bible
“And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way, so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind.” Surat al-Baqara, the Qur'an
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Category Archives: Middle East
The Garden (“Peeling Oranges” Series)
One cold morning, I wait for the American neighbors next door, who share a cab with me to school. A smoky mist rises up from their host mother’s garden, the night’s frost melting and crystalizing again in the air. It … Continue reading
Peeling Oranges
During my time in Jordan, I’ve taken many photographs, images that, when I look back at them years from now, will bring back the feelings I felt in those places and with those people. When I look at this picture, … Continue reading
Taxi Rides at Maghrib
After my first day at the university a few weeks ago, I jumped into a cab with a friend at dusk, stressed and tired from the long day. My mind was reeling with the new situation and setting, preoccupied with … Continue reading
What’s in a name?: Jordan goes to Jordan
Written January 23, 2012 Today is my first full day in Amman, Jordan. During my four months studying abroad here, my blog will continue to serve as a place where I post stories and reflections, which will no doubt be … Continue reading
Why you should care about the National Defense Authorization Act
*This is a long post. But its length reflects the importance of its topic. I hope this discussion communicates the complexity of the NDAA and the significance of the law’s implications. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was signed into … Continue reading
The Oslo Opportunity, Part 3: ‘Counter-jihad’ crusaders
The terror attacks in Norway occurred on foreign soil, but they have a disturbing connection to our own country and those who perpetuate fear of Islam here. To understand the link, we need to look no further than Anders Behring … Continue reading
A sacrificial feast
Today, Muslims are celebrating Eid al-Adha, the holiest holiday in the Islamic calendar. In some ways is very similar to Christians’ Easter in that though it is the most important holiday of the year, the worldwide festivities and preparations are … Continue reading
Muslims preserve Jewish shrine in Iraq
Here’s a great 3 minute video from the New York Times about a Jewish shrine in Iraq that is preserved and worshipped in by Muslims. They hope to restore it in order for Jewish pilgrims to visit the crumbling site, … Continue reading
