I was having a hard time finding something to write about today. I’m trying to make this blog a little more personal and less journalistic. I still want to focus on Islam in America, Muslims in America, and American Islam (whatever the heck that is).
But I think it will make for better reading (for you) and better writing (for me) if I do this through my own tinted glasses.
Anyway, as I mentioned, I was having a hard time finding something to write about. Fortunately, there haven’t been any major stories involving Muslims in America for the past few days.
Quite frankly, I welcome this trend. I’ve been hearing too much bad news these past 3-4 months when it comes to Muslims in America.
However, I have taken on new responsibilities. For the past month or so I’ve been handling the correspondence with Muslim prisoners for the local Mosque here in Alabama. I volunteered for the position as I needed to become more involved with Islamic works.
I’ve worked with Muslims who were ex-convicts before, but other than a few scattered visits to some incarcerated Muslims, I haven’t been very involved with Muslims in prison.
Interestingly enough, I came very close to accepting a job as a Muslim chaplain for New Jersey’s prison system.
Well, now it seems like some of the Muslim prisoners here in Alabama really need more communication with the community. Inshallah, I’m going to see how much I can do to help our brothers in lockup.
I want to do this solely for the pleasure of Allah. Nonetheless, I have several worries:
- Kibr (arrogance) - I am most worried that my intentions will become tainted and I will or am doing this work for the wrong reasons.
- Misguidance – It is quite possible I may have to teach our brothers in prison. I am not that knowledgeable and I worry about giving them incorrect information.
- Giving up – I worry that I may run out of steam. Or that it will be more difficult than I anticipate. Or my youthful zeal will be crushed by brutal reality and I may eventually find excuses to quit.
I can only pray that Allah will protect me from these pitfalls and forgive me if I do go astray. And I pray that others may be guided closer to Allah through the work I do.
Ameen.
In the meantime, I found this funny video entitled “Prislam.” It’s about Islam in prison. Very entertaining.
Insha’Allah,I think that you should work on getting a group(2-3) of people to help you–a prison committee. They will probably be African Americans and women, maybe a young middle eastern male will volunteer. Go to the Black Masjids to post for volunteer help. That’s where most prison committe volunteers come from, usually. It is not a sought after job, but these Muslim inmates have needs and rights over the Muslims on the other side of the wall. Eventually, you may even begin a visiting routine. Don’t dismay,there may be another Malcom needing your concern. Remember Allah gives you no task greater than your ability.
I made my first comment before I viewed the video. It was so to the point, on point and funny. Thank you!!!