The expression “assalamu alaikum” is a commonly used greeting in Muslim nations meaning, “Peace be upon you.”
President Obama extended a greeting of peace to Muslims from America. Among the wonderful things President Obama said in his speech to be a peacemaker and heal the wounds between Muslims and Americans,
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I’ve come here to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect, and one based upon the truth that America and Islam are not exclusive and need not be in competition. Instead, they overlap, and share common principles — principles of justice and progress; tolerance and the dignity of all human beings.
I do so recognizing that change cannot happen overnight. I know there’s been a lot of publicity about this speech, but no single speech can eradicate years of mistrust, nor can I answer in the time that I have this afternoon all the complex questions that brought us to this point. But I am convinced that in order to move forward, we must say openly to each other the things we hold in our hearts and that too often are said only behind closed doors. There must be a sustained effort to listen to each other; to learn from each other; to respect one another; and to seek common ground. As the Holy Koran tells us, “Be conscious of God and speak always the truth.” (Applause.) That is what I will try to do today — to speak the truth as best I can, humbled by the task before us, and firm in my belief that the interests we share as human beings are far more powerful than the forces that drive us apart.”
President Obama is truly just what America needs right now by way of foreign policy and his approach with the Muslim world.
www.PaulFDavis.com – worldwide speaker and author of God vs. Religion; and United States of Arrogance (from the Bush years)
Invite Paul to speak in your city! RevivingNations@yahoo.com
