MY COMMENTS TO OTHERS!

I

wow, that was smart to research! I think it does make people feel closer if you call them brother and sister...maybe it's because in America, no one does that, but I think it is a great thing that Muslims do, habit or not. 
Also, it's important to retain tradition, as long as it retains it's meaning...like in the Jewish religion, males (and some females) cover their head in respect for G-d--I assume you know this. Even though the covering is small, it is symbolic and Jews must remember what the purpose of the covering is...

just thought I'd make the connection :D

March 10, 2009 5:47 AM

II

That's quite interesting...the part about the modern Christian monk...

The most interesting part is that, even though you said he's an extremist, he doesn't try to push his views on others--you said he doesn't expect people to live the way he does. Most extremists try to influence others. What Mr. Claiborne does is quite different; it's respectable.

March 10, 2009 5:43 AM

 

III

WoAh. Horseback riding. GREAT story! That sure is a different take on "life-changing" experiences. Although Malcolm's life-changing experience was a religious one, you related it to a fear that was created when you were little. That's obscure, fascinating, and downright clever! Man, Malcolm traveling thousands of miles to Mecca seems like nothing now...umm, maybe not. But great post! Interesting article too! :D

March 10, 2009 7:47 PM

IV

Cool. Mosques seem like very peaceful places but from what you described, the rules were very strict. You explained very well how a lot of new experiences that many people do not have can affect you personally. That is a pretty neat thing to do, especially because you had images in your head already of Muslims who were praying. It turned out that everything was different... I guess exploring things for yourself is the best (or only) way to learn things!
Great post!

March 10, 2009 7:52 PM