As human beings, we will always differ amongst ourselves,
from small things to the big, likewise. This is true, including when it comes
to what we believe in. All of us have a degree of certainty in what we believe in,
based on what we know and understand, despite it having the possibility of
being right or wrong.
At times, our differences can cause friction and tension
between us. It’s natural, as long we don't go overboard with it. But
unfortunately, we often do (go overboard with it). In the name of freedom of
speech, we often disrespect and insult the party that we differ with. So much
so we curse that what is most sacred to our opposition.
We see this all the time. As a Muslim, I often feel angry,
sad and depressed when people mock at what I believe in. This feeling is
perhaps mutual amongst Muslims everywhere. And unfortunately, instead of giving
a noble response (to explain clearly why we are offended and try to build
bridges to eradicate the misunderstanding), we often get trapped into becoming
as bad as the people who insulted us, i.e. we also insult what is sacred to
them.
It is a common sight where burning or abusing the national
flag becomes a form of retaliation towards insults by a person of a certain nationality.
I remember a couple of years ago when the infamous comics from Denmark came
out. Muslims were understandably angry and hurt by the incident. But it still
doesn't justify acts of flag burnings and the sorts.
We are strictly ordered to not insult or mock what other
people deem as sacred, and the national flag is one example. Many people still
deem the national flag as a kind of deity that they worship (consciously or
not). The Olympics that is taking place is a testimony of this.
What is most important is to try and build bridges and
introduce Islam to people who are misinformed. But this is an impossible task
to accomplish if we ourselves are ignorant of what we say is our way of life.
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