To Osama bin Laden

On New Year's Day, to wish people a year of happiness is the epitome of cynicism and naivete. Like the years we have already lived, this one too will be replete with every possible feeling and experience. But what we should try to do, is enkindle in each other the hope that someday soon, peace will begin to make its presence felt. Toward that end I have addressed an open letter to Osama bin Laden, in whose blood stained hands the prospects for peace may conceivably dwell ~

To Osama bin Laden:

Although yours and so many other hands are stained with blood, you may be the one person in the world today who can bring it peace.

Perhaps you should revisit the Koran with a clearer mind. Nowhere in it does Allah authorize the killing of innocent men, women and children. It must be Satan’s deceptive voice that has been sounding that diabolical message. God rarely uses words to communicate, but His actions always speak with unambiguous and resounding eloquence. The tsunami which has just wrought such undescribable havoc all over the southern rim of Asia must be a sign of His wrath and His diminishing concern about our fate. And if that is so, why is God angry? Why is He turning away from us? Have we broken our covenant with Him? Is He revolted by the heinously unforgivable things we all keep doing to each other?

Is this not then a propitious moment for Islam to stop the Jihad and begin to join the West in a united and compassionate endeavor to bring comfort, healing and vital physical assistance to southern Asia’s devastated people, myriads of whom are Muslims? You have an army of zealous followers. They look to you for direction and inspiration. Would it not please Allah to see them joining their erstwhile foes in rendering the help so desperately needed by so many of our fellow creatures? Would this not also be a proper time for each one of us to cease inflaming and obstructing Iraqis, Afghans, Palestinians, Israelis and so many other people around the world as they strive to alleviate their suffering and emerge from their despair?

Under the dark and fearful clouds of war, everyone is a victim. In the wake of warfare there is only carnage and ruin. But under the broad umbrella of Peace, good will has a chance to bloom and flourish. And when people feel inspired to work together, shoulder to shoulder, God's will is done. And when God is pleased, everything is possible.

Osama, I would like to believe that the Archangel Gabriel, whose name my family proudly bears, is offering you similar counsel.