It seems like a lifetime since we drove out to the beach. Life is becoming more and more busy here. We were invited to a lecture this week entitled "Who Speaks for Islam? What a Billion Muslims Really Think" given by Dr John Esposito who is the director of the Alwaleed bin Talal Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, Georgetown University. This event was sponsored by the Center for International and Regional Studies, Georgetown University school of Foreign Service here in Qatar. The lecture and a reception following was held at the lovely Diplomatic Club in Doha, a very beautiful venue! Dr Esposito proved to be a humorous, thoughtful, knowledgeable presenter who is a leading expert on the Muslim world. He is also the co-author of a wonderful book on this subject and has very clearly presented insights into the thinking and attitudes of a large part of the Muslim population. Deepak Chopra praises this book by saying: "As our world spirals out of control with greater violence and misunderstanding between the West and the Muslim world, this book cuts through the conflicting rhetoric of politicians and pundits and presents the often-silenced voice of Muslims everywhere. I cannot imagine a more important or more badly needed intervention."
As I read the book myself I am finding that for me it de-mystifies the religion of Islam and makes me admire even more the Muslim people who are so devoted to it. They have a strong commitment to God and a goal to attain peace through God's will. I understand more and more the importance of prayer in their lives and love to see them take time out of their busy lives to simply pray.
Next week I will attend a workshop entitled 'Global Media Between Dialogue and War'. I am so looking forward to it! (it is also free!)
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