Taped on: September 18th, 1998

Title: Islam is the Way

Speaker: Imam Yahia Abdul Rahman Ph.D.

Location:

     In Islam we have the greatest gift given to mankind, one that has and will continue to uplift the human spirit and potential. Within this enlightening sermon (khutba) a challenge is posed to the Muslim community: will we use this eternal gift to foster goodness, dedication to one another, and the spread of this final message- as was intended?

• The strength of the individual character is imperative for any community or society striving to see its potential blossom. Naturally, when elementary virtues like generosity, humility, and preservation of dignity are absent, callousness and hatred take hold.

• While global systems that today are keeping materially wealthy nations perpetually poor bring constant warfare and moral degradation along with their exploitative practices, the seventh century Arabian society that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) worked to overturn was no less debased by fighting, indecency or corruption. Yet the shift this society underwent within only a few years of Islam being revealed is today, still unmatched in speed, and more importantly in the remarkable authenticity of the transformation.

• We have been given a better way to live and conduct ourselves. In the profound reverence offered to our creator and sustainer, God (Allah), and compassion for our brothers and sisters, Islam, when understood and applies exemplifies the best that human societies can achieve.

• Indispensable strategies for change:

1. Beginning with the possible to achieve the impossible.
2. Avoid despair, for it assures defeat.
3. An apparently bad situation or difficulty can be relived by reestablishing oneself in new surroundings.
4. Do not relegate people to categories; be welcoming to all people.
5. Change liabilities into assets.
6. Peaceful means are the most enduring methods of change.
7. Be flexible in your approach, uncompromising in your goals.
8. Change occurs gradually, so be patient while diligent.
9. Be pragmatic, not idealistic; define the priorities that will wield ultimate success.