Published by I hear and see a lot of criticism of the Muslim faith as I travel; I feel this is rather unfair. Let me explain, I am an Englishman who travels a considerable amount, often in the Middle East, countries such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Syria and India for example. I am not religious being what may be called an agnostic. However, I am impressed with many aspects of Islam, not in the teachings but in the humor, friendliness and hospitality of those who follow the religion.
The difference having been brought home to me shortly after the horrific attacks of 9/11 when I travelled to Syria, on deplaning and leaving the immigration area, the words of the person sent to collect me from the airport were, “hello, welcome to Syria, please don’t think we are all terrorists”. This struck a sympathetic chord with me as a new visitor. Over the following days with my client, I realized that the population of Syria is not terrorists and armed men and boys. Other experiences cemented the idea that people worldwide want the same thing, a peaceful life with their family and friends.
The lack of secularism, gave me a pleasant surprise. My clients company was a partnership between a Christian and Muslim, when I asked if religion ever “got in the way” of business, both parties commented that no, quite the opposite, both families celebrated Christmas and the Muslim holidays therefore had many happy holidays. Both of these people became friends, both are devout in their own religion.
Further to the experience I spend some time in Saudi Arabia, my client there was a practicing Muslim, on arrival in Riyadh, he met me at the airport. My client asked me to allow 12 days to research his project, I felt that it would only need five or six days, but the client insisted on twelve days in the Kingdom. I was surprised when in early conversation my client informed that we would spend the first six days educating me on the Arabic history and culture. He felt it would be better for the project. I have to say those six days were some of the most enjoyable and educating of my life.
The Muslim religion requires considerably more commitment than the majority of the usual Christian versions. Praying five times per day certainly requires discipline. Since the above instances I have had many formal and informal meetings with Muslim friends in their own culture and always enjoyed them, my experience is that the mutual respect, warm hospitality and genuine interest in people means that visiting these areas is always a pleasure.
IF only people who only see Muslims as terrorists and warmongers could have similar experiences, the world would be a safer place.
