While searching for lasagna noodles at the grocery store, I wasn’t paying much attention and accidentally collided carts with another shopper. I chuckled and offered a quick apology as I looked up, and to my surprise, the woman smiled back warmly before continuing on her way. I couldn’t help but admire her stunning headscarf—a beautiful blend of blue and silver—tied in a way I had tried unsuccessfully to replicate on multiple occasions.
As I moved through the aisles, we exchanged polite smiles, the kind that say, “I’m nice, but please don’t engage me in conversation.” However, when I reached the baking aisle, I decided to break the ice. “I love your scarf! It’s so lovely! I wish I could tie mine as smoothly as yours,” I exclaimed. Her initial surprise melted into a radiant smile that lit up her entire face.
“It’s really easy!” she replied enthusiastically. I confessed my struggles with tying a scarf, and to my astonishment, she said, “Let me show you!” Right there in the middle of the aisle, she began to unwrap her scarf and remove the pins to demonstrate how to tie it perfectly.
As she was showing me, our laughter faded, and I found myself asking, “Where are you from?”
“Egypt,” she answered. Then, feeling curious, I inquired, “Are you Muslim?” Her expression shifted slightly; her smile faltered, and she nodded, “Yes, I am Muslim.” At that moment, something unexpected happened—I felt tears welling in my eyes.
“I’m so sorry,” I said, emotions spilling over. “I’m sorry for the hate you’ve been exposed to. I’m sorry that many are judging you for things beyond your control. I wish you didn’t have to feel afraid when asked such questions.” My tears began to fall, and I asked if I could hug her. Surprised, she nodded, her eyes also glistening with tears, and we embraced.
Her name was Aisha, and we spent a meaningful time discussing the current state of the world. We acknowledged that there is both good and bad in every group—good and bad Jews, Christians, Muslims, and everyone in between.
As a mother, I often grapple with fear for my children’s future in a world filled with uncertainty. I worry about political leaders, and yes, I find myself frightened by extremist groups like ISIS, who embody true malevolence. But it’s essential to remember that they do not represent all Muslims.
Navigating the complexities of welcoming refugees into our country raises questions for me. While I support my right to bear arms, I also believe we need to ensure safety through oversight. It’s critical to care for our fellow Americans, especially veterans. Yet, I feel the most significant threat we face is allowing fear to dictate our actions and mindset.
My children observe how I respond to this scary world, and I strive to teach them awareness, intuition, and the importance of speaking up. I remind them that most people are fundamentally good and not to judge others based on race or religion. Above all, I encourage them to choose love.
Recalling something my friend Carla had shared on social media, I asked Aisha if she could help me with a phrase. “As-salamu alaykum,” I remembered, and she kindly taught me the correct pronunciation. “As-salam-u-alay-koom,” I repeated, feeling it resonate deeply. This common greeting means “peace”—something we all seek, regardless of our beliefs.
Ultimately, peace is what unites us. In a world marred by fear, love is the answer. Let us choose love, for love always prevails.
For more insights on navigating parenthood in today’s world, consider exploring resources like this excellent blog on pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re curious about ways to bond with your little one, you can check out engaging activities for your 7-month-old baby. And if you’re looking for fertility tips, don’t miss this fertility booster for men.
Summary:
In a heartfelt encounter in a grocery store, the author connects with Aisha, a Muslim woman, and they share a meaningful conversation about the good and bad in every community. The narrative emphasizes the importance of love over fear and teaches valuable lessons about understanding and acceptance in today’s society.