While on the search for lasagna noodles at the grocery store, I accidentally bumped carts with another shopper. I chuckled and apologized as I looked up, and the woman smiled warmly before continuing on her way. I couldn’t help but admire her stunning headscarf—a beautiful blue and silver piece that I had tried to style myself but could never quite manage.
As we crossed paths in the following aisles, we exchanged polite smiles—those familiar gestures that say, “I’m friendly, but I’m not up for a conversation.” Finally, in the baking aisle, I decided to break the ice.
“I love your scarf! It looks amazing! I’m envious of how flawlessly you’ve tied it,” I said. “I always end up messing it up when I try.” Her initial surprise gave way to a bright smile that lit up her face.
“It’s easy!” she replied, eager to share her technique.
“Really? I’d love to learn!” I exclaimed. Right there in the baking aisle, she began to unwrap her scarf and remove the pins, showing me step-by-step how to achieve that sleek look. As she demonstrated, we fell into a deeper conversation, and I found myself asking, “Where are you from?”
“Egypt,” she said.
Curiosity nudged me to ask, “Are you Muslim?” Her demeanor shifted slightly, and her smile dimmed as she nodded, “Yes, I am Muslim.” In that moment, emotions surged, and I felt tears welling up in my eyes.
“I’m so sorry,” I said. “I’m sorry for the hate you might be facing. It’s not fair that you have to endure judgement or fear when simply being yourself.” Before I knew it, tears were streaming down my face. “Can I hug you?” I asked hesitantly.
She looked taken aback, her own eyes glistening with emotion, but she nodded and embraced me. Her name was Laila, and we spent a long while in that grocery store talking about the state of the world. We acknowledged that there is both good and bad in every group—Jews, Christians, Muslims, and everyone else.
I’ve been wrestling with these truths myself. As a mom, I worry about raising my children in today’s climate. I fear for their future and the state of our nation. I won’t deny that I have concerns about terrorism and groups like ISIS, who propagate fear and violence. However, it’s vital to remember that they do not represent all Muslims. My fear cannot cloud my judgment.
Navigating the complexities of societal threats is daunting. I have strong beliefs about border security and the importance of helping those in need, especially our veterans. But perhaps the greatest threat we face is allowing fear to dictate our actions and attitudes. We must strive to foster love and understanding instead.
I remind my children to trust their instincts, to speak up if they see something concerning, and to protect themselves. Yet, I also teach them to see the good in others—regardless of race, religion, or background. Above all, I encourage them to choose love.
I recalled a phrase my friend had shared on social media and asked Laila about it. “As-salamu alaykum,” I said, hoping to get it right. She smiled and helped me pronounce it correctly. The words felt meaningful as they rolled off my tongue—“peace be with you.”
In fact, peace is what most of us desire, regardless of our beliefs. And we won’t achieve it through fear; love is the key.
Choose love. Love triumphs.