Speech Quotes from Muhammed Shoayb (imaam)

(Islamic Society of Greater Salt Lake)

‘Many Muslims abroad view it as a challenge for America to keep up the positive momentum that is building around in the western world regarding President Barak Obama’s speech. As Muslims in America, we are positive that our President Barak Obama’s attempt to bridge the gap between past and present, old and new would be accomplished by all people that cherish peace and harmony for all of humanity.’

‘It remains to be a very well designed set of words…… its intent by far remains to improve United States global image. By far it would quell Muslim anger within some sectors, aggravate others that view it as words of manipulation to help improve sentiments.   Actions and words are separate entities. Muslims believe words and actions go and hand in hand, and we have to hope this for the president as well.’

(This speech of the President functions for) ‘Muslims not only need to be more greatly appreciative of the freedom America has awarded us. Muslims need to stand proud that they have have contributed within the realm of academia, politics, as well as in the area of religious culture and diversity. Muslims, as it currently stands,  I would say are more accepted in the United States then anywhere else and for that we should be thankful to our Creator. ‘

‘As Muslims, we share the same sentiments of peace towards all people around the world. Peace would be valuable for not just the Middle East, but the world at large.’

‘Muslims like all people attach importance to security for all. Not just for Muslims or for a selected group of people for a specified time period. ‘

‘Muslims must pray and take part in healthy behaviors that would continue to promote healthy relations to revitalize mutual respect and harmony for all.’

‘Charm and positive universal action would make for a great combination.’

‘The hope President Obama envisions for the world the exact hope Islam gave to the world. Irony has it, Muslims have let go of the hope Islam has given Muslims, only to be given the hope hope by the President of the United States. Words of the prophet (pbuh) Muslims fail to cherish, words of President Obama they do!…‘

As an Arabic saying goes: ‘When a person excels in the art of bridging gaps between civilizations, critics are numerous.’   We should remain cautious and aware of the negative voices from amongst us – be they Muslim or non-Muslim. Never let these negative voices pull us down.’

‘…we remain proud to give to America more then what it has given to us. For Allah loves those who appreciate His bounties. Appreciation to a Muslim is to give back fully to its host nation – give and share the best of values, character, ideas which creates a better nation for all.’