text:
Take Time for Internal Reflection
May 13, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
It is not the quantity, but the quality of time spent attempting to follow the guidance of ALLAH that ensures success. ALLAH says in Qur'an that "everything is a sign – for those who reflect." Each day, if we just take 10 minutes of quiet, quality time in carefully selected thought procedures, we can improve our life by achieving a greater measure of happiness, increased efficiency, and a feeling of spiritual, mental, and physical well-being.
So many things whiz by us each day that it is virtually impossible to reflect while you are on the go. You will possibly see these "signs of ALLAH", but not will reflect on them to get the full benefit. So many miraculous things occur during the course of our going about our daily activities. They are happening whether you realize it or not. The key is to first know that ALLAH is in the blessing business and then key in on your blessings by being one of those who "reflect" on the signs of ALLAH.
This 10 minute formula I am sharing with you has been proven scientifically over time and it is right in sync with the ALLAH'S word to "reflect." The plan is to spend the 10 minutes every day in quiet submission. It must be regular. To do it for a day or two and then skip a day or two will lessen the impact on the results.
ALLAH is real, and He will guide you as you submit your mind to His. Don't go into this process with the idea "I want to do this—or do that. Instead, wait on an answer to enter your mind. You have now made your mind susceptible to Divine wisdom.
This is in the same vein as the Istikara prayer Muslims say in the early reaches of the night. The difference is, in the istakara prayer, we ask ALLAH to examine our particular situation. It may be a particular relationship or maybe a career move or something similar. We make two rakah and ask ALLAH to make it easy and possible to attain— if it is right for us. If it is not right for us, we ask Him to remove it from us. Istakara is a powerful tool of connection and help from ALLAH.
This time of reflection is also special because we stop what we are doing, go to a quiet place with no distractions and wait for thoughts to enter your mind. They might not be what you expect or even what you want. They may be far from what we are accustomed to thinking. But if you are a believer and have submitted yourself to be an instrument of ALLAH, you will be on a higher wavelength of righteousness in which there is no error. The time can vary. It may be before salat or after salat—or an hour or so after salat. It doesn't matter. The main thing is quietness, relaxation, and submission of your mind to ALLAH.
There are many tools and avenues to connect spiritually to our Creator. This is only one. Sometimes while offering salat, solutions and answers come to our minds. I take it as ALLAH choosing a time to communicate with me. Some people think they are sinning if your mind wanders during salat. But it is not necessarily so. It depends on what your mind is wandering to.
This human mind we have is special and it has a special way of communicating with its Maker. Reflect on the "Signs" of ALLAH. You will be richer for it.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Keep Our Eyes Open for Justice
April 22, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
The case of Brother Imam Kwame Teague
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
Most of the time when we hear a person has been arrested we feel he must have done something or he or she wouldn't have been arrested. And when we hear someone has been convicted of a crime, our certainty of their guilt is strengthened. After all there must have been overwhelming evidence that left no doubt of the guilt. There was either a jury trial of 12 people that listened to evidence, weighed it in their minds and came to a unanimous decision; or a learned, educated judge who has sworn to uphold the law according to knowledge and investigation has rendered a decision. Again, it must be right.
Then there is the case of a person who has been arrested, tried, convicted, and serving time in a penal institution. Now this person HAS to be guilty. Right? Because appeals have been heard, and the evidence has been looked over for a second or third time, by different people, and they come to the same conclusion, the case is closed as far as we are concerned. And we say they must be guilty.
Well, that may, or may not be the case. With the advent of new technology, including DNA testing, we are finding there are many people who have been incarcerated for many years and we come to find out they were totally innocent. Just think of the many people falsely accused and wrongly convicted who would still be in prison if not for the technological advances and/or persistence by legal experts, friends and family.
Of course, we also are aware that of the entire prison population, I would guess that 90% of them claim they are innocent. And we also know that all of them that claim innocence are not innocent. But because we have seen so many cases of wrongful imprisonment, it behooves us to take all available means to prove a person's innocence. This is especially true when there are major discrepancies and obvious omissions of evidence by the law enforcement and legal representatives.
One such case that may fall in a similar category is the case of Kwame Teague. Brother Teague is a Muslim brother who has been incarcerated since February 1, 1994 in the North Carolina jail system. His charge is Murder. At the time of his arrest he offered an explanation of his whereabouts and gave the name of the person he was with. This person was picked up and questioned but the statement was never allowed to be used in court.
Other questionable actions was the appointment of a defense attorney who had been attorney for the opposition; not allowing testimony of people who gave statements exonerating Brother Kwame; allowing the testimony of a person who was in prison, had a bad case of AIDS-related dementia, and a reason to implicate Brother Kwame, and many others.
Brother Kwame has been a model person since his incarceration. He has served as imam at the institutions he has been imprisoned at with nothing but glowing remarks about his character Islamic spirit. His father, Brother James C. Teague, of Newark, NJ, is a very well respected brother in the Muslim community and has done a magnificent job of instilling moral qualities and academic and professional excellence in all his children, two boys and two girls. He says of them all he is most proud of Kwame because "he has overcome the profound barrier of incarceration to perform the same type of dedicated contributions from behind prison walls that his brother and sisters perform in free society."
This article is by no means being written to try and establish the guilt or innocence of Brother Kwame. It is being written to shed light on the many injustices that occur in our penal system and to encourage strong and persistent investigation of cases when proven facts may prove a person is being denied justice. And because it LOOKS LIKE Kwame could be innocent, we owe our all.
There are many people like Kwame throughout the country and we encourage you to help in any way you can to present overlooked facts and omissions that could bring the truth to light.
We also encourage you to not automatically assume that when the authorities say someone did a crime that they must have done it. Mistakes can and have been made. No one is infallible except Almighty ALLAH.
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
New State Investigator Assigned to Luqman Case
April 15, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
It is very seldom that a case involving poor, and what seems to be unimportant people, can garner the amount of attention and interest as has the case of the murder of Imam Luqman Abdullah, the late imam of Masjid Al Haqq in Detroit, Michigan. The chairman of the powerful Judiciary committee in the US House of Representatives, John Conyers, the U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, the Mayor of Detroit, Dave Bing, numerous Michigan State Representatives like Bette Cook-Scott, and many civic and community groups like the NAACP and National Action Network are responding to the leadership of CAIR-MI director, Dawud Walid and Ron Scott, head of the Coalition Against Police Brutality. As we reported earlier, this is the "murder that just won't die".
Now the Attorney General of Michigan, Mike Cox, who is trying to get support for a run for governor, has called for a special investigation of the case and has call in Doug Baker, a former Wayne County Prosecutor, to review whether the FBI acted appropriately in the shooting of Imam Abdullah who was shot a minimum of 21 times and then handcuffed as he lay dead on the ground. The imam had a gunshot wound to the back also and it is speculated by many that he was shot in the back as he lay handcuffed on the ground. That could only be the action of a demented person if it happened as speculated. Of course the FBI will give no details.
Mr. Baker will investigate the FBI to see if any state laws were broken by Federal law officers which could potentially lead to serious charges such as murder. Baker has often been described as a very tenacious prosecutor and has a number of high-profile cases under his belt. He was the prosecutor who successfully tried the case of two Caucasian police officers accused of the brutal killing Malice Green in Detroit. Community members watching the case are wondering if that same tenacity will be utilized in this case.
Other than his interest in becoming Michigan's next governor, people are wondering why Republican Mike Cox is so interested in the case now. It is well known that in the past he has shown his indifference to issues important to the community. A case in point is the investigation of former Detroit mayor Kilpatrick involving an alleged party at the mayor's residence where a stripper lady who was reported to have danced there was later found slain.
The official reason for the State of Michigan's involvement is because the office of Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy declined to investigate the case. On the surface that looks bad for Ms. Worthy but actually it seems the justice Department, particularly the FBI, has been as close-mouthed with the prosecutor's office as it has been with the rest of the community. Prosecutor Worthy has said her office could not get any documents because they were classified. According to her it would have been irresponsible to conduct an investigation without the pertinent information.
We know that sometimes events happen that we have no explanation for. We know that ALLAH allowed this atrocity to happen – but ultimately for a good cause. As the case continues to unfold, we look for the good that we know will be revealed to us. And hopefully we will benefit from it.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Young People
April 15, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
I am appalled as I learn more and more about some of the antics and activities some of our young adults are engaging in. In what seems to be a quest to be "cool" or "regular", (or what some have the audacity to call "normal") some of our young people are going too far in emulating the ugly low-life they see in in the streets and the media.
I know that every generation looks at their offspring as crazy young kids. My parents used to shake their heads at me too. But I can honestly say that our values and morals were much higher than the young generation today. Even the way the young people dress (and I'm particularly talking about the young men. When I was coming up we prided ourselves on being nicely dressed. We made sure we had creases in our pants and our shoes were shinned. We prided ourselves on wearing nice fabrics and taking care of them.
Nowadays the young men seem to see how bad they can dress. They go all day looking like they just got up out of bed and threw on the first thing they could grab. And the irony of it all is they think they are looking good. It bewilders me how someone can wear jeans with holes and tears in them and some hanging down exposing underwear and say it looks good. Something is definitely wrong mentally if something so ugly can be perceived as being hip and cool.
But that's not all. The level some of them have sank to would boggle the mind of most civil-minded human beings. There are youngsters (males and females) who use profanity that sounds like it comes out of a sewer. There are some choosing places of ill-repute to party and have fun. There are even cases of homosexuality, (males and females, and it seems to be more females than males), and on top of that it is so widespread that sometimes it doesn't get a glance.
Some of these Muslim children have grown up in Muslim homes all their life. Some of them have more Qur'an in their little finger than I have in my whole body. They can recite scripture from memory in beautiful rhythmic tones that make you want to cry listening to it. So why this double life?
In the African- American community there were many reverts to Islam that witnessed some of the same negative lifestyles described above – myself included. So this degenerate lifestyle of this society has no attraction for me and others my age. But the youngsters, growing up in an environment where this type of behavior is forbidden or strongly discouraged, feel the pull to experiment (as all youngsters do). But these days are so dangerous because youngsters have access to so much technology that puts virtually anything decrepit within a finger click away.
10 and 11 year olds are watching hard-core pornography, sinister sadistic murders, and glorifying morally loose lifestyles. It has gotten so bad that some people have given up on them and believe straightening them out is a lost cause. But I don't. I believe we must work even harder pointing out to them the need for them not to stray too far. And we must work even harder to try and be better examples ourselves. Even though that negative media has a strong influence, the strongest influence is you.
I tell you we have a big challenge ahead of us. Some of us have been asleep (including me) but it's time to wake up and get busy. Let us do more Dawah at the dinner table rather than at the masjid. Let's start back being parents instead of friends – which really would be the best friend they could have.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Using our Adam to Control our Animal Nature
March 18, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
When Adam was created a very special being was created. ALLAH actually put more of Himself into human kind than any other part of creation. He told the Jinn, Angels, Devil, and everything else to submit to humankind. This puts us directly under ALLAH with nothing in between.
It also gives us a great amount of responsibility to live our lives as Muslim human beings. When you consciously accept to become a Muslim, thoughts and activities you did prior to accepting the highest station of creation (Conscious Muslim human being) should be suppressed with as much vigor as possible.
All ethnic groups and cultures of Muslim groups have their own cultural baggage that denigrates the religion as well as the individual. There are cultural practices that automatically place women in an inferior, sub-class from men. This is not from scripture. It is from misogynist, chauvinistic ideas of men. Nevertheless they are seen by non-Muslims, and some Muslims, as part of the religion. These types of negative portrayals create a mindset that stifles the positive forward progress of the community.
There are other groups, primarily reverts to the religion, that have cultural baggage they brought with them from another life.
I witnessed a terrible example of this when two brothers in a disagreement actually went to fisticuffs – at the masjid – instead of using their religious instruction to solve the problem. The altercation actually started over unproven accusations that they didn't take time to discuss. They just let violent, uncivilized behavior take over their minds and a worst situation developed. Settling differences with brawn rather than brain is the result of a barbaric mentality that has no place in the life of a conscious Muslim.
When most reverts accept the religion it's because they see a superior way of life dictated by the directives of the Almighty ALLAH through His human example, Prophet Muhammad (s). We look at where we came from and the negative effects backward lifestyles had on us and vow to live a new, fruitful, productive, moral and peaceful life. Some of us even make the journey to Mecca to perform the hajj to increase our spirituality and thus the tools to achieve this new life.
Human beings are animals. The same physiological characteristics that make up our bodies are present in most animals, especially mammals. We even use cats, dogs, and fetal pigs in laboratories to study our own human physiology. The only difference between our brain and the brain of a cat is our brain houses "mind," which makes us human.
So even though we have this animal nature, our human mind is supposed to control it. This is true for ordinary human beings and is supposed to be especially prominent for those of us who have become Conscious Muslim Human Beings. So whatever your ethnic or cultural baggage, whether misogyny or brutal aggression, Islam is supposed to free you from that. And this freedom is yours regardless of your cultural or ethnic background. The Qur'an speaks to all people.
It is understandable that these things are difficult to overcome but every effort must be made to make the change. ALLAH made us (Muslim human animals) to be the cream of creation and endowed us with a piece of Him to take care of the creation.
Let us try to remember ALLAH the next time challenges confront us. Let us think before we do an action whether ALLAH would approve of what that action is and the manner we are doing that action. Remember Ihsan, "behave as though you see ALLAH, aware you can't see Him, but also aware that He sees you."
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Islam – America's Answer to the Race Problem
March 11, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
Repeated from earlier article.
"O mankind. We created you from a single (pair) of a male and female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise each other). Surely the most honored of you in the sight of ALLAH is he or she who is the most righteous of you. And ALLAH has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things).
There is none more aware of the differences of human beings than the One who created them. It is through the generosity and graciousness of ALLAH that He made us different nations, tribes and colors. Just think for a moment how dull the world would be if everyone were pink and thought exactly alike. We could not learn from each other – and thus, we could not grow. But ALLAH, with His infinite wisdom, has made us different- so we may know each other.
In the early 1960's, El Hajj Malik El Shabazz (Malcolm X) returned from his pilgrimage to Mecca and made the profound statement that "America needs to look at Islam as the answer to its race problem." Here was a man whose mind had been previously clouded by erroneous assertions of Black superiority and Caucasian devilishness. While on hajj he wrote to his wife that he had sat down and eaten with blonde-haired, blue-eyed people and there was no racism there – only brotherhood.
Recently, in Southeast Michigan where I live, there have been a rash of ugly racial incidents and feelings put out. There have been cross-burnings and even opposition to the building of a major mall because it would attract people from other cities nearby. Southeast Michigan has the reputation of being one of the most racially segregated areas in the country. Cities separated by a few miles are 90% African-American and 98% Caucasian respectively.
This can be looked at negatively as a sign of hatred, which in some cases it might very well be. But what is more important than where people live is what is in their hearts. ALLAH says regardless of where we live or were born, ALLAH says we are one ummah, and He is Lord (21:92)
In my nearly 30 years as a Muslim, I am a witness that Muslims, for the most part, look upon other Muslims as brothers and sisters, regardless of their culture, ethnic background, or school of thought. As an example, a Muslim from China can meet a Muslim from the Netherlands while they are vacationing in Brazil, and there is an instant kinship and recognition – and most times a universal greeting of As Salaam alaikum. I have seen this in no other group of people whether it be religious or fraternal. Even Muslims who don't necessarily like each other still share this kinship. And it is not fake. You know in your soul and heart if someone really likes you or not.
This is a blessing from ALLAH to those who are adherents to the highest form of existence for a human being…Islam.
Our charge now is to exercise this brotherhood by more visible interaction of the various Islamic communities. Even if we live, work and play in different areas, we must make a conscious effort to be seen interacting and cooperating with each other. This is not only good for us, but it will also be a sign and a help to those who are not Muslim. It will raise the esteem of Muslims in the general society as having something very positive and beneficial to contribute to the entire world.
Let's look in our communities and see how we can aggressively promote this religion. Do you want to end racism?…..try Islam.
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
The Power of Forgiveness
March 4, 2010 by TMO · 2 Comments
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
Has someone done you wrong? Does it seem that someone has or is going out of their way to do harm to you? Do you seem to be consumed with the thought of these acts of injustice to you? Before you lose your mind, stop and assess your situation, and know this – NOW IS THE TIME FOR FORGIVENESS.
You might say, "why should I forgive someone who hurt me? After all, I didn't do anything to them. They should ask me for forgiveness." That might be true to a certain extent, but look at it this way. Your human qualities are far above what Satan and the Jinns desire for you.
You should forgive because it takes the burden of someone else's problem off your shoulders. Forgiveness releases the heavy yoke of self-oppression from you. If your adversary knows that he/she has consumed your thoughts with their wicked deeds, it only adds to their delight to see you squirm.
Let us look at our human example, Muhammad Ibn Abdullah (s), who was full of forgiveness. One strong enemy of the Prophet (s) used to throw feces and sharp thorns in the prophet's walkway every day. The Prophet (s) would calmly sweep it up and say nothing. Then one day he noticed that his walkway was clean. No one had thrown anything on it. Seeing this, the Prophet (s) promptly went to the man and inquired of his health. The humble character of the Prophet (s) so impressed the man that he eventually accepted Al-Islam.
And of course we all know that we would not breathe another breath if it were not for the ever-present forgiveness of ALLAH on us. ALLAH says all through the Qur'an that He is the Most Merciful and the Most Compassionate. If He were to punish us according to our deeds, there would be no one left on the earth. Now since ALLAH is so forgiving, (ultra-forgiving) and Prophet Muhammad (s), following the direction of ALLAH, exercises the ultimate human level of forgiveness, doesn't it behoove us to follow their lead and attempt to do the same? As in all directives of ALLAH, the purpose of the directive is to uplift the human being. When we attempt to follow ALLAH and emulate the Messenger (s), there is a promised benefit in it for us – and that benefit is peace of mind.
Walk up to a brother or sister who you believe has done you a disservice and ask them to forgive you for anything you might have done to them, either knowingly or unknowingly. Instantly you will feel a great lifting of doom and ugliness from your heart if the right intention was there (the pleasure of ALLAH). And of course, if you are aware that you have wronged someone, be big enough to approach that person and ask them to forgive you – then go and strive to be upright after that. If they accept your apology you have made peace in that particular relationship. If they don't accept your apology then at least you have lifted the cloud from yourself and you will go about your day with less of a burden on your shoulders.
If we just follow these simple rules of Islamic etiquette, our minds and hearts will be light and peaceful. We will also be responsible for remaking the world into one of peace.
This is also showing Almighty ALLAH that we are grateful to Him for making us a human being – the greatest of all creation – and puts the bad Jinn in his place – under you.
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Rep. Conyers: Investigate Luqman Shooting
February 4, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Al-Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
Large interfaith, intercultural outpouring of support for Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah
Now that the Wayne County Medical Examiner has released the autopsy report of slain Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah, the outrage and questions are growing by leaps and bounds in the community.
The manner in which the imam was set up and killed by federal officers has outraged and been questioned by the Mayor Dave Bing of Detroit, countless business and community leaders, and now, the powerful chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary committee, John Conyers. Congressman Conyers called a press conference in Detroit and demanded a full Federal investigation of the facts surrounding what many call the "execution" of Imam Luqman Abdullah by FBI agents.
As we remember, this newspaper was the first to report on the excessive force and questionable motives of the government security forces that pumped at least 21 bullets into the body of the imam. The Muslim Observer was also the first to point out the total disrespect and denigration shown to human being Imam Abdullah by giving a dog more care and attention than a human being.
The autopsy report showed that Imam Luqman was not only shot at least 21 times, his hands were also handcuffed behind his back as he lay prone face down in a trailer truck. At the same time the police dog, named freddy, was airlifted to an emergency veterinarian hospital in an attempt to save his life. Traffic was blocked off in both directions as the helicopter landed in the middle of busy 12 mile road in a futile attempt to save the dog.
FBI agents reported they opened fire on Imam Abdullah because he allegedly shot the dog, who is considered a federal agent; and they must shoot to kill anytime one of their officers is attacked. This is ludicrous. Dogs do not possess a mind. The oath FBI agents take seems to exclude dogs. The oath is as follows: "I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God."
Now we all know a dog is not capable of consciously agreeing to such an agreement so using such a flimsy excuse to fill a man full of bullet holes is, at best, barbaric and devilish.
Congressman Conyers' concern took another important turn when he wondered aloud why the FBI spent so much time and resources to build a case that obviously, at best, was entrapped petty crime. It was revealed that the suspects did not commit larceny, nor did they conspire to. They were brought "stolen items" that were supplied by the FBI and even paid with FBI money. The FBI also controlled the warehouse that held these "stolen goods" and was the scene of the set-up killing of the imam.
So why did the government want Imam Abdullah dead? Or was it the government or merely some gung-ho trigger-happy cowboys who wanted to get target practice? This is the big question. Congressman Conyers has asked Attorney General Holder to open a full investigation and it has already started. This is very significant because Congressman Conyers, as Chairman of the powerful Judiciary Committee, will chair any proceedings brought before the House – and that includes the Attorney General if necessary.
One big positive result of this whole scenario is the outpouring of love and support from the non-Muslim community. There were representatives there from Quakers, National Action Network, ACLU, Michigan Coalition for Human Rights. Congressman Conyers was also joined by Michigan State Representative Bettie Cook-Scott who also heads the Judiciary committee of the Michigan Legislature. The entire proceeding was brought together by another non-Muslim. Mr. Ron Scott, leader of the Coalition Against Police Brutality, worked tirelessly getting sufficient support to keep the light on the case. ALLAH says in the Qur'an that the Christians are closer to you than any other group. This case is a sign that if we believe in ourselves and do the right thing, ALLAH will send help to us and they will be more assertive for our cause than we are. I didn't see as much Muslim support and outrage as I saw Christian. One Christian lady stood and said "this is about justice for a human being. It has nothing to do with what religious faith he belonged to."
We are also blessed to have the tireless efforts of CAIR-Michigan executive director, Dawud Waild. This brother has the uncanny ability to work with other members of the society and bring positive results to fruition. It is good to have confidence in a brother that we believe has done his homework and will not sell us out.
Never in our wildest dreams did we (and possibly the FBI's as well) think the imams' homicide would open up such a big inquiry into questionable dealings by our law enforcement department. ALLAH allows things to happen for His own purposes and those who reflect can be blessed to understand His purpose.
Renew Yourself
February 4, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
The tenets of the religion of Al-Islam emphasize constant renewal in our lives. If we could just do something once and be done with it, our practice of the religion would cease to exist. For instance, we are directed to fast every year in Ramadan. This is because one time just won't do it. We will forget and/or lapse into other activities to divert our attention from the remembrance of ALLAH.
There are many other signs from ALLAH for us to reflect on. We breathe, eat and drink everyday to replenish our bodies. If we did not…well you know the answer to that. There is constant renewal in education. Our brains need activity to grow and be useful.
Similarly, our relationships must also be constantly renewed. How many of us have heard the expression "What you did to get her, you must also do to keep her?"
But before we get to that; before reaching out to our spouses, we must reach out to ourselves. In order to spread cheer to our families, spouses, and others, it must first come from a cheerful body and mind. How is this accomplished?
Each day upon rising we must begin to renew ourselves by recognizing the great masterful work of art ALLAH formed when He created you. You must look in the mirror and say to yourself how good you look. You must talk to yourself and constantly convince yourself that because you are a flesh and blood human being, you are directly under ALLAH. Always tell yourself that there is no one or nothing that is greater than you except ALLAH. This will arm your mind with positive thoughts and keep the evil ones from convincing you that you are otherwise.
After recognition of your greatness, resolve to be grateful to ALLAH by taking care of this great creation – you. Make sure you bathe and keep yourself clean. Shampoo your hair and use conditioner to enhance its appearance and health. Try to eat sensibly to reduce stress on your body. Exercise at least moderately to keep your temple in the best shape.
This constant renewal will make you grateful and put you in the best possible shape to reach out to others. We will be able to love and see the benefit of our spouse and help them see the benefit of themselves. This is very important because then everybody wins and ALLAH is pleased because you are carrying out His desires for creating you in the first place. And if ALLAH is pleased with you, you can ask for no better reward.
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Martin Luther Kings' Mountain Top
January 28, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
Every year in the month of January I am reminded of the powerful persona and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was such a deep and prolific speaker that the gist of his speeches is still being felt today. The "I Have a Dream" speech with its powerful message of hope, is so imbedded in our minds that for many of us, it the only speech we remember that he made. Those of us who have faith and belief in ALLAH are constantly amazed at His revelations of His works.
On the eve of the assassination of Dr. King, he made a speech at a Baptist church in Memphis, Tennessee that many people believe foretold his eminent death. He talked a lot about death that night. He started with the story of the plane that bought him to Memphis and how the pilot delayed the flight because Dr. King was on it so it could be checked for bombs.
He also talked about a brush with death he had in New York when a crazed woman stabbed him with some sort of ice pick. That assault brought the woman's weapon dangerously close to Dr. King's aorta (main blood vessel). The doctor at the hospital told him the knife was so close that if Dr. King had sneezed he would have died because the pick would have pricked his aorta and he would have drowned in his own blood. He used this incident to tell about a little white girl that wrote to him expressing her sorrow at his unfortunate incident. She said she admired him so much and was so happy that he didn't sneeze.
Then he said he wasn't afraid of death now because he had been to the mountain top. He said God had allowed him to go up to the mountain top and he looked over, and saw the "Promised Land." He said he might not get there with us be he wanted us to know that we as a people would get to the Promised Land. He said his eyes had seen the glory of the coming of the lord.
This became very personal to me in 1991 when I made the pilgrimage to Mecca. I was on the plains of Mt. Arafat when I decided to climb the mountain. When I reached the top, the only thing going through my mind was Dr. Martin Luther King and him telling us that he had been to the mountain top.
As I stood on my mountain top I look out over the plains of Arafat and saw the Promised Land. I say the Promised Land because Dr. King, in his most famous speech, said he dreamed of a land where his four little children would live in a land where they were judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. That is the vision I saw on Arafat where people of every ethnicity, every culture, every color; men, women, and children, were gathered in unity to worship the One God of us all.
I believed then, and I believe now that the mountain top Martin Luther King saw was Mt Arafat. Islam is the only religion that has more true brotherhood and sisterhood than any other group of people whether it is a religion, a fraternity, or whatever.
Sure, there is bigotry and racism among Muslims but there is less of it than any other religion. If you travel to any part of the world and you see a Muslim, there is instant recognition and greeting. No one else can make that claim. This is something we must hold on to and nurture. It is one of the things that make this religion the greatest religion in the world.
More of Dr. Kings philosophy needs to be adapted by Muslims the world over. Muslims must take the bold step necessary to shift world sympathy to our side. Currently, we are looked on as aggressive barbarians and we get no sympathy from anybody. However, people will stand up with us and protect us if they don't look like weak fools for doing so.
The legacy of Dr. King is so important to future generations, and especially important to future generations of Muslims. We can, and must win the battle by mental and spiritual strength – not by physical means….because we can't.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Renewal of Yourself First
January 14, 2010 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
The tenets of the religion of Al-Islam emphasize constant renewal in our lives. If we could just do something once and be done with it, our practice of the religion would cease to exist. For instance, we are directed to fast every year in Ramadan. This is because one time just won't do it. We will forget and/or lapse into other activities to divert our attention from the remembrance of ALLAH, so He orders us to fast each year.
There are many other signs from ALLAH for us to reflect on. We breathe, eat and drink everyday to replenish our bodies. If we did not…well you know the answer to that. There is also constant renewal in education. Our brains need activity to grow and be useful.
Similarly, our relationships must also be constantly renewed. How many of us have heard the expression "What you did to get her, you must also do to keep her?"
But before we get to that; before reaching out to our spouses, we must reach out to ourselves. In order to spread cheer to our families, spouses, and others, it must first come from a cheerful body and mind. How is this accomplished?
Each day upon rising we must begin to renew ourselves by recognizing the great masterful work of art ALLAH formed when He created you. You must look in the mirror and say to yourself how good you look. Arm your mind with positive thoughts and keep the evil ones (Shatan) from convincing you that you are otherwise.
After recognition of your greatness, resolve to be grateful to ALLAH by taking care of this great creation – you. Make sure you bathe and keep yourself clean. Shampoo your hair and use conditioner to enhance its appearance and health. Try to eat sensibly to reduce stress on your body. Exercise at least moderately to keep your temple in the best shape.
Above all, try to live as uneventful a life as possible. We learn in science that the brain responds to stress by secreting a hormone called cortisol. This chemical balances the stress levels in your body and helps you to cope with the ups and downs of your life. We know everybody has stress but it's smart to keep it to a minimum because too much secretion of this cortisol is harmful to your body. It causes excess plaque build-up in the blood vessels and contributes to heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and many other ailments. These are things that could be prevented by living a moderate life as dictated by your Creator, Almighty ALLAH.
So when you concentrate on this constant renewal of yourself, it will make you grateful and put you in the best possible position to reach out to others. We will be able to love and see the benefit and beauty of our spouse and help them see the benefit and beauty of themselves. This is very important because then everybody wins and ALLAH is pleased because you are carrying out His desires for creating you in the first place. And if ALLAH is pleased with you, you can ask for no better reward.
Listen to Your Soul
December 31, 2009 by TMO · Leave a Comment
With ALLAH'S name, The Merciful Benefactor, Merciful Redeemer
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin
"He it is Who has sent down to thee the Book. In it are verses basic and plain, clear in meaning: they are the foundation of the Book. Others are not entirely clear. But those in whose hearts is perversity or wickedness follow the part that is not entirely clear, seeking disharmony and searching for its hidden meanings. But no one knows its true meanings except ALLAH.
And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say: "We believe in it. The whole of it is from our Lord:' and none will grasp the Message except men of understanding."
Ali Imran:7
(Repeated from earlier column.) Many people seek the magic formula for guaranteeing success and the pleasure of ALLAH. After all, isn't that what we all are seeking? I think that most people, whether they are Muslim, Christian, Jewish, or other, have this basic innate characteristic that has us seeking the pleasure of G-d, no matter what we call Him.
ALLAH says the plain and basic teachings of the Qur'an are what He desires us to focus on. If we adhere to the basic tenants of the religion, we are virtually guaranteed paradise.
I'm talking about not imbibing intoxicants, not eating pork, not brutalizing your wife or children, not committing adultery and fornication, being charitable to your neighbor, and many other basic, common-sense directives. These teachings are inherent in all of us. They just have to be enhanced.
This brings me to the point of reminding us to revisit some of the teachings and tenants of our religion that we felt a special affinity for, or which was instrumental in sparking our faith in the first place. Whether you were born into a practicing Muslim family, or you reverted, it was most probably the plain and basic teachings that ALLAH sent through His prophet, Muhammad (s) that endeared you to the faith.
When I first became Muslim in 1976, the teachings of Imam W. D. Mohammad had me spellbound most of my waking hours. Granted, I was fresh from a different experience and therefore enthralled by the common sense explanations of Islam that were so explicit and plain – and remain so today. Imam Mohammed is credited with almost single-handedly turning an entire community of people from false worship of Elijah Muhammad, to the clear universal teachings of Islam.
ALLAH, in His message to the world, constantly tells us that He is Lord and there is nothing equal to Him. He further tells us that Adam (human beings) is next in line to Him. He (ALLAH) tells us that we have nothing to submit to except Him. This was great news to me. It took a person who had bred-in inferiority complexes and elevated him to the lofty station right under the Lord, Master, Ruler, and Boss of all creation. Imam Mohammed brought this point home beautifully utilizing the foolproof beauty of ALLAH'S Word. I don't believe there is anything in the worlds as powerful as this.
Read and listen to what ALLAH says in His Book. Listen to ALLAH for true success.
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Military Muslims: What Now?
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, MMNS
When Major Nidal Hasan went on a murderous rampage in Ft. Hood, Texas, the entire nation snapped to rapt attention and said, "Here we go again. Those crazy Muslims are at it again."
Immediately after the story hit the airways the usual apologies from Muslim organizations and individuals started pouring in. "We Muslims do not condone the actions of Major Hasan. "This is not Islam." "Islam means peace," etc etc etc.
I don't mean to sound callous or uncaring about the grief being felt by the family and other loved ones of the slain. Of course, we abhor the actions of any deranged person who without warning, and seemingly without any justification or provocation, takes innocent human lives. This person was obviously not in a rational state of mind, and plainly his actions had absolutely nothing to do with his religion, or lack of it. I believe the world knows this but the anti-Islamic fever sweeping the world, fed by the other media, will keep people's rational thoughts from surfacing.
Some news accounts make reference to the Islamic signs that major Hasan had on some of his property. The news media interviewed some people who made statements like "I heard him speaking Muslim talk." (He could have been saying as-salaam-alaikum). It is an obvious attempt to discredit anything with any ties to Islam. And by making note of his artifacts, they are saying that having these things in his possession automatically makes him a dangerous "Islamic Radical."
But actually it is no stranger than a Catholic crazy man having a rosary, or a Buddhist crazy man with his statue of Buddha, or a Jewish crazy man with copy of the Torah and a yarmulke on his head. It does not matter what his religion is. If you're crazy, you're just crazy.
But on the other hand there are numerous Muslim soldiers and veterans who have annual observances to mark Veterans Day in this country. But for the most part, they are not reported. I realize that good, positive events that enhance humanity are not as sensational as a shooting rampage by a crazy person. But they are nevertheless so very important because with the automatic sensational reporting of negative events getting all the attention, it takes extra effort to put some balance in the reporting.
For several months the Dawah Team at Masjid Wali Muhammad in Detroit, Michigan, under the leadership of the late Imam Warith Deen Mohammed, has been planning a salute to all veterans from any branch of service and any dates of service. The event will be a luncheon held at Masjid Wali Muhammad from 11AM – 1PM.
Brother Lawrence Ziyad, a veteran of the Viet Nam war and one of the coordinators of the event, says the program will be one heavy with reverence for ALLAH, and patriotism for the United States government. It will begin with prayer followed by the National Anthem and Lift Every Voice and Sing, popularly known as the Black National Anthem. Also, as part of the opening and closing of the luncheon, they will salute the American flag.
These Muslim brothers, maybe more than many other people, are keenly aware of the ills of this country. Most are descendants of slaves that suffered what is arguably the worst treatment of any human beings in the history of mankind. Still they recognize the beauty and importance, and the privilege of being Americans, and are grateful for being so. This picture of Muslim patriotism is rarely seen in the media.
Another group, the Muslim American Veterans Association (MAVA) is a nationwide service organization comprised of former members of any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. The group is officially recognized by the United States government along with other veteran groups such as the veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legions, Polish American Veterans, Jewish Veterans, Italian Veterans and other Veteran organizations. The Muslim-American group is made up primarily of Muslims of African American descent since most Muslims that immigrated here from other countries, came here past military age. The group, comprised of five posts in various cities is headed by National Commander Saleem G. Abdul-Mateen.
What major media cared to report that the MAVA Commanders recently met on Capitol Hill in Washington to meet with Muslim American Congressman Andre Carson to present ways to help assist young veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. What media (other than the Muslim Observer) cared to report that the MAVA Post #1 received a community service award from CAMP (Council for the Advancement of Muslim Professionalism for its untiring efforts in making life better for those who sacrificed and served this country unselfishly.
Congressman Carson was so impressed with the group that he invited them to establish a forum for dealing with veteran affairs and open up a dialogue for addressing these issues. MAVA has already created programs to assist returning servicemen and women. "Our aim is is to interact locally and nationally with organizations and institutions that have exhibited care and concern for these service members," said member Saleem Abdul Mateen.
Another fine example of Muslim American patriotism is in the person of Chaplain Lt. Colonel Abdul-Rasheed Muhammad. Chaplain Muhammad is another Muslim American in the community of Imam Warith Denn Mohammed. I have personally watched his rise in the military and admired his character, and balanced approach to different situations.
These fine Muslims are just a few examples of the great majority of Muslims in this country. They love their religion, they love their country, and they love being fine and caring representatives of both.
Let us remember the victims, and their families in our prayers. And let us strive to be good Muslims and good Americans. Ameen.
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
FBI Kills Muslim Imam–What Really Happened?
November 7, 2009 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, Muslim Media News Service (MMNS)
The recent killing of Imam Luqman Abdullah in an ambush by the FBI is rife with controversy in varying reports by the FBI, U.S. Attorney's office, eyewitnesses, and the people who knew the imam personally. The reports do have one thing in common though. No one found or acknowledged any evidence of a terrorist threat or any planning to take over the U. S. Government by Imam Luqman or his followers.
Imam Luqman's murder comes on the heels of a 3 year investigation that used FBI-planted provocateurs using electronic wiretaps to secretly tape conversations and take pictures of what they say were "suspected Terrorists."
Imam Luqman Abdullah was known by the general community as a very generous, kind, and amicable person. The Masjid Al Haqq, under his leadership, sponsored a soup kitchen and other charitable acts operating out of an area in one of the most impoverished areas in Detroit. The majority of the people in the neighborhood are either unemployed or in a low-paying job that is incapable of providing a decent living environment. Still his community tried as best they could to live and fulfill their Islamic duty to provide for those less fortunate than they.
The FBI knew the economic situation of the followers. They knew these brothers were unsophisticated, uneducated, and emotional. This three year investigation is summarized by a 45 page complaint using statements gathered by three Federal informants. It is ironic that during this investigation there is a lot of emphasis on a used truck that the FBI informant says the imam tried to seduce him to get a false vehicle Pin Number for. The rest of the "so-called "stolen goods were actually supplied by the FBI; including pay-off money. These goods included supposed stolen furs, stolen lap-top computers and stolen firearms. None of these items were actually stolen. They were supplied by the FBI. So you can imagine a scenario where a person goes from allegedly trying to steal a used truck to handling large shipments of furs and pallets of laptop computers, when in actuality these people had no capacity to operate or run such an operation. The masjid these brothers attended did not even have running water or heat for an entire winter. With such a meager existence, they couldn't even take over their block – much less the U.S. Government.
I am not saying this to denigrate the brothers of Masjid Al Haqq. I'm saying this to paint the picture of what appears to be intentional entrapment and excessive overkill. Whatever the purpose of the FBI going to these extremes to kill Imam Luqman, whether it was to further discredit Islam or trying to put more emphasis on African American Muslims because since 9/11, most of the spotlight was on Arabic and Asian Muslims and now the campaign has spread wider.
It is also ironic the way the imam was killed. The imam and four other brothers were ordered to lie on the ground and be still. The other four men did as they were told and laid down. Imam Luqman did not. He just stood there and refused to lie down on the ground. At this point, the FBI unleashed a vicious dog to attack the imam. The imam had a firearm on him and pulled it out and shot the dog. At this point, the FBI unleashed a barrage of gunfire at the imam and he was hit multiple times by numerous bullets.
First of all it was pointed out that if any one of us was the target of a vicious dog with fangs bared running toward you, and you had a means to protect yourself, I believe any one of us would have a natural instinct to protect yourself. It brings to mind the vicious dogs that were unleashed on innocent unarmed protesters during the civil rights era of the 60's. And these people were only trying to eat a hot dog at a lunch counter.
By their own admission, the FBI knew there was no real threat to the United States. They knew they were only committing petty crimes, mostly because of poverty. Because the infiltrators knew the mindset of the imam, it may have been known how he would react.
Here's something else to ponder. While the imam lay dead or dying, a medical evacuation helicopter was brought in and landed in the lot to..….rush the dog for medical treatment. They rushed the dog to hospital, blocked traffic in front of the doggie hospital by setting the helicopter down in the middle of the street. And they had just finished killing a human being by fabricated evidence and what appears to be a set-up.
There is another sad chapter in this story that many people seem to miss. Imam Luqman was a husband and the father of 10 children, the youngest a 13 year old girl. They are hurting big time and don't know when or if any relief and comfort will come.
Public opinion is heavy on the side of Muslim victims by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Mudher Hamudi, an Iraqi native says he feels there was a better way to deal with the situation. "Taking of a human life without good reason is against decent living," he said.
A different twist was added by Brother Lawrence Ziyad, a retiree of Chrysler Corporation. He says Imam Luqman could have handled the situation differently. "Imam didn't abide by the law," he says. "The government went in to arrest Imam Luqman; not to kill him."
Derrick Mustafa says he doesn't have ill feelings of the police or government officials. He says the Muslim guys made a mistake and got caught-up in a trap. He feels an investigation is in order to get to the bottom of this perplexing event.
Everyone wonders why the FBI didn't arrest the guys and send them to prison since they knew they were petty thieves and had no chance to overthrow the government. As said, they couldn't even keep the water on.
Many say the imam and his followers were attacked because of America's fear of Islam. So why are they so afraid of Islam that they will go to such extraneous means to attack and discredit it? Islam is now said to be the fastest growing religion in the world and the majority of the 1 ½ billion Muslims are peaceful, God-fearing, normal human beings. Sure, we have our fanatics and crackpots just like every other religion.
So what is there to be learned by this tragedy? We all know that nothing happens without the permission of ALLAH. ALLAH has allowed Imam Luqman to lose his life undoubtedly for the better good. Imam Luqman was not stupid. He was also very aware of the deviousness of some law enforcement. How then was a FBI informant able to get so close to him? It is reported in the 45 page complaint that one informant in particular traveled to distant states regularly with the imam. He became so close to him that it seems he was the imam's right-hand man.
This should be a warning to Muslims. Everyone that says As Salaam Alaikum and prays five times a day is not necessarily your friend. We Muslims are sometimes the most gullible people in the world because we have good hearts which the Devil uses to his advantage. The case of Imam Luqman is good example of how the Satan works as described in the Holy Qur'an.
The Devil says he will come up on your right side. He did so when he came to the masjid and immediately started to make salat and talk good "Muslim talk."
He slid up on their left side when he slid "stolen" goods up to the impoverished Muslims and told them how easy it would be for them to make money, of which the Muslims had none.
He snuck up behind them when he infiltrated and informed on them without their knowledge and he also came right up in front of the brother's faces and told who they were.
ALLAH'S word is true. When someone comes to the Muslim and tries to entice him to do things that are out of the favor of ALLAH, the Muslim must resist the temptation – no matter how easy and sweet it sounds. You know it is displeasing to ALLAH.
Imam Luqman did not die in vain. Let us get a lesson from his murder. Let us remember to keep ALLAH first, even in front of ourselves.
As Salaam alaikum
Al Hajj Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Muslim Organizations Issue Statements Re. the Shooting of Imam Luqman Abdullah
November 5, 2009 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Adil James, Muslim Media News Service (MMNS)
Farmington—November 4—The shooting of Imam Luqman A. Abdullah by the FBI sparked controversy, partly because it stirred up memories of America's past persecution of African American leaders, partly because of the demeaning circumstances, and partly because news reports relating to the shooting have cast far reaching and highly unlikely aspersions on Imam Luqman.
The shooting spurred local and national Muslim organizations to issue alarmed press releases, the common theme of which was that they condemn any illegal activities if Imam Luqman was involved, but ask that news reports refrain from alleging any terrorist conspiracy absent any such evidence. Another theme echoed in several was the demand for an independent investigation into the events of the day.
The facts alleged by the reports do not conflict with one another, although only the MPAC statement actually explores the then-known facts of the incident. On Wednesday 10/28 the FBI raided 3 Dearborn warehouses, to arrest Imam Luqman and 11 associates on many federal criminal charges. At the end of the raid, Imam Luqman was dead, shot apparently 18 times.
The American Muslim Taskforce (AMT), Muslim Alliance of North America (MANA), Muslim Public Affairs Coalition (MPAC), Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), Imams' Committee of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Michigan (CIOM), ISNA, and Dawud Walid, Executive Director of CAIR Michigan, all made statements regarding the incident.
The American Muslim Taskforce (an umbrella group including AMA, AMP, CAIR, ICNA, MANA, MAS-Freedom, MSA National, MUNA, and UMA) demanded an investigation and demanded that the government "stop injecting religion into this case," apparently operating on the belief that the government may have had a valid criminal case against Imam Luqman but no terrorism case and that his religion was extraneous to the events that took place.
The Imams Committee of Michigan's powerful CIOM unity group (representing most of Southeast Michigan's mosques including Sunni mosques and Shi'a mosques) met with the director of Michigan's FBI office (Mr. Andrew Arena, who had previously expressed satisfaction with his agents' handling of the case) to discuss what happened. They asked for clarification of what happened, without demanding a full investigation. They also emphasized that religion should not be brought into the case.
ISNA, America's largest and politically the strongest Muslim community organization, also made a statement saying it "is distrubed by the recent shootout." "The details of the incident are still sketchy," read the statement, "but the way the incident is presented as a terrorism case when the actual charges involve criminal conduct, including alleged fraud and theft."
ISNA joined the chorus asking for a full investigation of the incident also, while also expressing support fot the "vital work carried out by law enforcement agencies" and spoke against resisting arrest, saying "[t]he only morally and legally acceptable way to challenge the actions of law enforcement agents is by working through the justice system and the court of law."
MANA (which Imam Luqman was a part of) issued a statement which opened more directly the issues involved in the case, saying "Reference to 'the Ummah' as a 'nation-wide radical fundamentalist Sunni group consisting primarily of African Americans' is an offensive mis-characterization."
Further, the MANA statement said that "to those who have worked with Imam Luqman A. Abdullah, allegations of illegal activity, resisting arrest, and 'offensive jihad against the American government' are shocking and inconsistent."
MPAC's statement had one wise piece of advice, "With so much left unknown in the developing case, MPAC is warning government agencies and media outlets of the alarming exploitation of this isolated incident that is stigmatizing Muslim American communities around the country."
MPAC's primary concern appeared to be avoiding national backlash against Muslims based on the Imam Luqman shooting and resulting media coverage.
More facts have come to light since the organizations' statements were made, including that Imam Luqman apparently resisted arrest and shot an FBI dog that was loosed to attack him before going down in a hail of FBI bullets. Several senior Muslim community workers have explained that as Imam Luqman lay dying from 18 gunshot wounds, he was handcuffed to a stretcher and left to die while the FBI dog was medically evacuated by helicopter.
News reports around the incident portrayed Imam Luqman as a violent anti-government jihadist bent on a government takeover, but foiled by FBI action.
However the best report about the incident was in fact the one by this newspaper's Imam Abdullah El-Amin, who traced a convincing story about FBI provocateurs luring Imam Luqman into dealing in stolen merchandise and then springing the trap before he could escape, perhaps even orchestrating his reaction and demise.
Unfortunately the national theme in investigations of Muslims has largely been one of government provocateurs luring down-and-out Muslim men into situations they don't fully comprehend and which appear to be fully funded, planned, and coordinated from inside the FBI. Then the poor stooges are arrested in midnight raids by SWAT teams in body armor and paraded before camera crews as dangerous al-Qaeda terrorists. And the poor slobs are carted away through years of trials which often as not end in their being released.
Don't Sweat the Small Stuff – ALLAH is the Only Reality
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, Muslim Media News Service (MMNS)
"..…And further, thou seest the earth barren and lifeless. But when We pour down rain on it, it swells, and puts forth every kind of beautiful growth in pairs. 6). This is so because ALLAH is the Reality. It is He who gives life to the dead, and it is He who has power over all things."
Qur'an 22:5, 6
Repeated: There is a positive thinking book out called "Don't Sweat The Small Stuff – and it's all small stuff." This statement sort of puts in perspective everything we know. ALLAH, The Almighty, made Adam (human beings) to be over everything we can see or imagine. That is awesome power. Just look at the creation of ALLAH.
We can start with the tiniest of atoms, which we cannot see with our naked eye, and they are composed of matter even smaller. We are in control of even this microscopic material. Look at the awesome destructive power we unleashed by splitting one. The ensuing chain reaction resulted in the most destructive and deadly weapon man has ever used against his fellow man. And that was 60 years ago so you can imagine what we have now.
We can then look at what we can see in this world. Trees, animals, etc. are all under our control. Tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, and other natural disasters, will one day be controlled by us or at least we will harness their power for our use.
And this world seems to be nothing compared to the universe and beyond. Adam is also in charge of that. I don't think it will be long before we have people living and vacationing on the moon.
But with all that great and powerful material creation that we can see, as well as imagine, we must remember, it is all fading away. Science has calculated that the sun, as massive as it is, is burning out. Only ALLAH is permanent. He, ALLAH, says everything is fading away except Him. ALLAH is The Reality – The ONLY Reality.
"What is with you must vanish: what is with ALLAH will endure. And We will certainly bestow, on those who patiently persevere, their reward according to the best of their actions."
So knowing this great truth we should not let any person bring us some "small stuff" and make us feel inferior to them. Sometimes we let people chastise us by reminding us of some mistake we have made. They will go so far as to make you seem stupid for making the mistake. But we must remember, that mistake, and everybody's mistake will go away along with the rest of creation.
Generally these people are reminding you of your shortcomings to make you seem small and make them seem big to you. This is nothing but Shaitan trying to fulfill what he promised ALLAH he would do to Adam (human beings). And when you look closely at them, you find they are making more mistakes than you – but trying to conceal them. Their aim and intention is to denigrate you.
But if you view it right, your mistake is only there as a learning tool for you. It is to teach you not to do that thing again. But it will go away because ALLAH is the only reality. If these evil people try to denigrate you by calling you stupid or something worse, just say, "maybe I am, but so are you. ALLAH is the only reality." This should make you feel better instantly and while you are feeling better about yourself you can more directly take steps to improve yourself.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Musings–The Qur'an Can Advance You to "Riches"
August 27, 2009 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin, Muslim Media News Service (MMNS)
Note: This article is part of a CD series. Write for more information.
First of all you should know that when we say "Rich" we're not simply talking about material or monetary richness. Finance is certainly a part of it, but richness comes in many forms. You can be "rich" if you only make $150 a week – and you can be a multi-millionaire and be the "poorest" of the poor. You are "rich" when you have a balanced life brought on by a balanced lifestyle. This balanced lifestyle begins with the belief in ALLAH, His Messenger… and prayer.
Of course, having ample finances to take care of your necessities plus a few luxuries, goes a long way to making one happy. You cannot be happy and fulfilled if you don't have enough food to eat or clothes to wear or a comfortable place to lay your head. This is one of the main reasons that poor areas have more despair, stress, lawlessness, and family and societal breakdown.
This is not to say these things don't exist in affluent neighborhoods. They do. But the proportion of despair in poor neighborhoods far exceeds that in richer areas. It doesn't take a rocket scientist or a psychiatrist to understand that if a person grows up looking at broken bottles and empty boarded up houses everyday, he or she will not be as productive as those who grow up looking at and utilizing wealth.
However, ALLAH says if you follow some simple rules, you will be "Rich" enough to be happy in peaceful, productive surroundings.
First let us look at ZAKAT. Prayer and zakat are two of the most often repeated dictates of ALLAH. He puts so much emphasis on it that He has given an example of what you get back by charitable giving. He says charity is like giving a grain of corn and each grain grows seven ears and each ear has another hundred grains. Now add that up and see what your reward is. I must warn you – you'll need a mighty bi calculator.
This principle of giving is for everybody – not just "affluent Muslims. ALLAH says for the believers (rich and poor) to pay zakat. Some people who don't have much money think they are exempt from giving. This is not true and may very well be the reason they are in need. If you only have a dollar and you give five cents, ALLAH will multiply what you gave.
The next key for getting "Rich" is saving a portion of what you have. Again, it is irrelevant as to how much you have. If you only make $150.00 a week, save some of it before you start spending. First give charity and then, pay yourself. This savings is not to be touched for anything except a dire emergency. (And an emergency does not mean running out and buying that good looking coat you saw in the paper.) Saving will make you independent. You can rely on yourself for emergencies and needs rather than rely on the generosities of other people.
This is sensible living and allows you to live a life "Rich" in value, "Rich" in productivity and eventually "Rich" in finances – or at least being able to live comfortably and happy. This is the type of life ALLAH wants us to live. It's the very reason He sent His message and Messenger to us.
Too many Muslims do not key in on the simple, but powerful benefits of obeying ALLAH. But in case you don't realize it, it's the way to a perfect life.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin The Qur'an Can Advance You to "Riches"
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Dawah at the Dinner table During Ramadan
August 20, 2009 by TMO · Leave a Comment
Correct Fear of ALLAH
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin
A famous politician once said, " The only thing we have to fear is fear itself". That may be true if you are speaking in generalities only. If you are afraid of the scrutiny of other people or their criticisms, then you will have a fear of them and be under their power, unable to utilize your own.
But if the only fear you have is the fear (respect, regardfulness) of ALLAH, you are empowered over everything in creation.
In my leadership at the masjid I often see people hold back from expressing the truth about a situation simply because they are afraid of the gaze or scrutiny of another person. That is the wrong fear.
People will also not pursue their dreams because someone told them they were unqualified and so they back up and let it drop and it is probably something they are very good at or at least something that can be sharpened. They drop their dreams because this naysayer appears to be stronger or smarter than you. But when you really look at this person you will probably find they are actually weaker than you.
Suppressing the talent ALLAH blessed you with is actually being ungrateful to Him. If you suppress your Islam so as to not let non-Muslims see you, you are being ungrateful of the greatest gift bestowed on mankind.
Alhamdullilah, we are at the advent of another Ramadan fast. We look to this month as a period of rejuvenation of our souls and our spirits. Almighty ALLAH orders us to abstain from food, drink, sex, and vain talk as a submission to Him so as to strengthen our iman. It is an excellent time to re-visit, study, and, strengthen some basic Islamic principles.
Ramadan is also the time when ALLAH affords us the opportunity to eat with each other more often. At Maghrib time, you can be sure most Muslims are scurrying around to find something to eat. During the rest of the year, with our busy schedules, it is difficult for some families to find time to eat together.
This Ramadan, we should focus on utilizing this time to do "Dawah at the dinner table." When we have fear of ALLAH, it will be more easy to combat the following weak behaviors.
Muslim men and women need to pay attention to how we live and practice our religion. This society makes a big point out of irresponsible men and loose women seeming to be normal. I know some Muslim males who have fathered children and never taken care of them. They have gotten to the point in their life where the sin of such action escapes them. In some communities the men go from woman to woman as though they were expendable collateral. To father children and not "maintain and protect them," is in direct conflict to the directives of ALLAH. Men are also charged with maintaining and protecting the community. Adhering to basic directives like this is necessary to have a stable productive community.
Females also need to be reminded of basic Islamic principles. ALLAH orders women to not expose their breasts and not draw unnecessary attention to their bodies. Yet I am noticing increasing numbers of Muslim women exposing cleavage and wearing form fitting jeans and dresses with not enough top piece to cover their forms. And it is ironic that at the same time they are wearing a scarf. What do you think the men inside and outside of the mosque are looking at…the scarf?? I think not.
Female breasts are sexual body parts. That's why ALLAH orders women to draw a veil over them. But I see lots of Muslim females from teenagers to young women – and even some "seasoned" women showing cleavage just like the women on TV.
Dawah at the dinner table will help those guilty of this.
Men, if you have babies with women and you haven't financially, materially, or emotionally supported them, start doing it now – for the sake of ALLAH – if you believe. You cannot continue lying to and using women just because you can – because they are the weaker sex. Repent to ALLAH and ask for His forgiveness; and from then on, strive to be upright.
During this month I would like to see more men standing up to their obligations to our women and children. Start with what you have and ask ALLAH to make it easy for you to fulfill you duties.
And I don't want to see any more females showing cleavage. I don't want to see it at any mosque – or if I happen to see you at CVS pharmacy. If you don't demand respect, you will not get any.
Let's talk to each other for real. Do dawah at the dinner table – it's the best place.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Isn't it Wonderful to be Muslim?
July 2, 2009 by TMO · Leave a Comment
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin
ALLAH, The Almighty, has the power to use His creation as he sees fit. He allows people to be Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, or even disbelievers. He also reserves the authority to bestow His special blessings on a group of people that He has favored to carry His message. That special group of people is us – the Muslims.
When I think about the special blessings ALLAH has bestowed on me, I am filled with gratitude because I could be someplace else. In fact, I was someplace else before ALLAH rescued me and showed me the correct path. And I've been striving to stay on it ever since.
What is sometimes disturbing is when I see people abusing the good life ALLAH has put them in. I see men abusing women and taking advantage of them simply because they can. They can consciously choose and execute this abuse because ALLAH has put the man in a stronger position than the women. But that superior position is only so the man can maintain and protect the woman. I see men play on women's emotions and pull them back and forth as though they were puppeteers. It is definitely something wrong when a person is aware of ALLAH and the goodness He intends for us; and lives a life completely opposite from what she or he knows and preaches.
I am also aware of women who have a faster, more analytical mind than some men and they use this to abuse their spouse (and anyone else who gets in their way).
These people do not have a peaceful soul that is able to rest and enjoy the blessings has bestowed on them. They see some flaw in themselves and attempt to cover it up by being overly aggressive and finding fault in others. It seems that today's world is filled with self-promotion, defending our own rights, taking care of ourselves first, winning by intimidation, pushing for first place, and a dozen other self-serving agendas. That one attitude does more to squelch our joy than any other. So busy defending and protecting and manipulating, we set ourselves up for a grim, intense state of being – and it is not new or confined to any certain group of people.
Prophet Isa ibn Maryam, said to "Be unselfish and humble yourself. That statement is the secret of a happy life. While someone else is busy building a case against you, you will be in the next room, down the hall, or across the globe being happy and productive.
Do all your deeds with the thought in mind of pleasing ALLAH alone. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind. Let us regard other people as being more important than ourselves. Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
In this way, you, and those you are in contact with will prosper. And it will be done with less stress and anxiety.
These are basic Islamic tenants that help guarantee a peaceful soul. It is the way to purify your soul so you can better carry out your role as caretaker of the creation.
As Salaam alaikum
(Al Hajj) Imam Abdullah El-Amin
Crescent Pre-Need Inc
Dignified Islamic Janaaza Services – Inexpensively; www.crescentpreneed.com; 313-999-4953
The Imam, Leadership, and Respect
April 27, 2006 by TMO · Leave a Comment
Imam, Leadership, & Respect
By Imam Abdullah El-Amin
"O ye who believe! Put not yourselves forward before ALLAH and His Messenger; but fear ALLAH: for ALLAH is He who hears and knows all things. 2. O ye who believe! Raise not your voices above the voice of the Prophet, nor speak aloud to him in talk, as ye may speak aloud to one another, lest your deeds become vain and ye perceive not. 3. Those that lower their voice in the presence of ALLAHíS Messenger—their hearts has ALLAH tested for piety. For them is forgiveness and a great reward. 4. Those who shout out to thee from without the Inner Apartments—most of them lack understanding. 5. If only they had patience until thou couldst come out to them, it would be best for them: but ALLAH is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful
Hujurat: 1-5
On July 4, 1976, Imam Wallace D. Mohammed, leader of the Muslim American Society, delivered a stirring talk entitled "The Need For Leadership." In the talk were references to how leadership is subtly and overtly disrespected. This is done in many ways such as constantly finding fault with the leader, putting obstacles in his path or refusing to remove obstacles from his path, or treating him like "one of the boys." When the Prophet (s) was among us physically, ALLAH had to remind the believers to treat him with respect. Looking at where the people came from (Jahylia—ignorance) it is no wonder they had to be reminded. Can you imagine having the Messenger of ALLAH (s) in your midst and shouting into his house like he was your street running buddy?
We may wonder why ALLAH put these ayahs in the Qur`an. The Prophet (s) is no longer physically with us so He couldn't be talking to us about shouting into the Prophet's (s) dwelling. That is not physically possible. But since we believe that every word of the Qur`an is meant for our guidance, then, without doubt, ALLAH intends this as a sign for human beings in our dealing with each other.
Does this mean that we are to treat our leaders as kings and princes? No, not at all. But it does mean that we are to be intelligent and respectful to those ALLAH allows to be in charge. You may notice when the President of the U.S. enters the halls of Congress, everybody jumps to their feet to give him a standing ovation until he reaches the front. Then when the Speaker of the House formally announces him, the applause starts all over again. It is a respect for the office—not necessarily the man.
ALLAH reminds us of this because the community cannot prosper with such behavior. Yusef Ali says in his commentary that to behave in such a manner can destroy the good intentions of any service you may have wished to perform. You might be looked upon with disfavor without you even realizing your action was disliked. ALLAH says "most of them lack understanding," but nevertheless the damage is done.
In order for us to be successful, we must take on the spirit of the Qur`an. We must drop cultural and ethnic hang-ups and adopt the plain and simple, but strong language of the Qur`an. It's the only way to be Muslim and be successful.
As Salaam Alaikum
(Al Hajj) Abdullah Bey El-Amin


text:
- - by
- Mike Singer
Bill Paxton Pinball - Where 'Titanic' and Super Coolness Collide...Again
Bill Paxton's Wikipedia page needs dire updating. While it does mention his role as "Punk Leader" in "The Terminator," it fails to mention his second greatest achievement: starring in his very own pinball machine!
Console modder extrodinaire Benjamin Heckendorn spent the past five years constructing and programming the Paxton-themed pinball game from scratch. Ben clearly has big love for the "Vertical Limit" star and is smart enough to "store [bitmaps] in the spare 32k of the Propeller's EEPROM in the same sequence as [the] display uses."
How do you think he does it? I don't know. What makes him so good?
Watch the making of video and take notes if you want to make your own pinball machine featuring Hayden Christensen or Matthew Lillard.
Check out the game in action after the break.
hot on the web
Add your comments
Follow Us
Most Popular Articles
Most Commented Articles
- No Articles Found

subset: commoncrawl


text:
- 1.866.986.8282
- |
- Get Island Email
- |
- Account - Sign In or Register
- |
- Shopping Bag (0) - Checkout
[x]< Shopping Checkout >
Your Shopping Bag
Contains 0 Items
Contains 0 Items
There are no items in
your shopping bag.
Big & Tall Sea Glass Breezer Shirt (# BT36432)
Big & Tall Fit
- 100% linen
- Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry on low setting. Do not dry clean.
- This pigment-printed garment is meant to fade when washed. Please follow the care instructions carefully.
- Stand collar; shirttail hem
- Front pocket; rounded cuffs
- Tommy Bahama Big & Tall is not available in our retail stores
- Imported
You Might Also Like
Big & Tall Del Chino Pants
Big & Tall Sea Glass Breezer Shirt 14 14
Best shirt in my closet Very well made shirt. I Have such a hard time finding sleeves that are long enough to fit my arm length. 2xl tall is the best fit I have ever come across. September 21, 2014
VERY Generous cut with cheap plastic buttons This is the first time I've had to downsize from my usual 2xlt (6'6", 225lb) to a xlt. The 2xlt was HUGE! All in all, nice shirt, however. The big negative for me: $100 shirt with cheap, cheezy looking plastic oversize buttons (like ones you might expect on a $19.98 knock-off version at Sams or Costco) - really? Surprised the designers couldn't do better than this, ie: perhaps coconut, bone or mother of pearl buttons - something that connotes higher quality (and better justifies the lofty price tag). August 19, 2014
gets lots of compliments first time I wore the shirt out to dinner I received three compliments!! great shirt, a little long in the body compared to my other TB Big and Tall items. July 25, 2014
very comfortable an excellent value The shirt was everything I was looking for comfort, fit and style. I will probably order another soon. July 6, 2014
Solid Purchase The shirt was a big too big to wear outside the pants (hangs too low), but that's the risk from buying online. The comfort of the shirt is superb, however, so I'll wear it tucked in. July 5, 2014
New Linen Fan Very nice shirt. I have an older TB linen shirt that is nice, but they did something with the Sea Glass Breezer that makes it even softer and lighter than the older shirt. It also seems to be less "wrinkly" than your usual linen. After washing you just hang it and it looks great. Just ordered a second one. June 6, 2014
Great color and fit Fit is perfect, exactly how a linen shirt should be. May 26, 2014
Wonderfully crafted shirt The first indication that the manufacturer cared about this product was the way it was shipped. It was packages carefully to avoid wrinkles as it traveled across the country. When I tried it on, I was astonished with the beautiful blue highlights near the cuff and collar that truly complimented the shirt and have it that special touch. The fabric is quality and it irons nicely after washing. The shirt was cut large but after washing it, the size was much truer. I don't recommend drying it however. Tommy's quality usually speaks for itself so you won't be disappointed. March 17, 2014


text:
- Wednesday to Saturday at 20h00
Ceri Dupree at Emperors Palace
05 March 2014 - 29 March 2014
Odeon Showbar, Emperors Palace, Johannesburg, Gauteng
The One Man Diva Show!
R80, at the door.
The fabulous and flamboyant Ceri Dupree is back with his New One Man Diva's show! Enjoy an evening of hysterical comedy, amazing vocal impersonations and jaw dropping costumes.
For group bookings contact 011 928 1297


text:
- 1062Promote
Art Print
House Brawlby Alice X. Zhang
Collect your choice of gallery quality Giclée, or fine art prints custom trimmed by hand in a variety of sizes with a white border for framing.
shut up! YOU'RE the one who did this illustration? I have been seeing this all over the internets. awesome.
*GASP* IT'S YOU! This is one of my all-time favorite articles of clothing. It's almost worn through in the shoulders. Time to buy a new one soon...
See More Comments


text:
Black women are starting to log on to YouTube and looking for black women to demonstrate and give reviews on skincare for women of color. I know because I'm an African American woman and I am subscribed to other gurus of other cultures, but I began searching for women of color to see and how they do makeup and products they review and suggest for brown skin girls.
I have been watching some incredible beauty gurus that are black women for over a year and they know beauty, fashion and some hair care techniques and tips. See who made my list!
This list reflects the number of subscribers and views the day the YouTube channel was added to this list. In January 2014 I will update the number of subscribers and views for each below. THIS LIST WILL BE CONTINUED TO BE UPDATED THROUGH 2014 SO KEEP COMING BACK!
-AndreasChoice (Andrea Brooks) - over 1.5 million subscribers, over 88 million views
-QueenOf Blending - Over 294K subscribers, over 49 million views
-BritPopPrincess (Patricia Bright) - over 256K subscribers, over 22 million views
-Nitraab (Nitraa Pearson) - over 241K subscribers, over 15 million views
-BeautyByJJ - over 231K subscribers, over 26M views
-TeasedBlackPearlz (Tiarra Monet) - over 221K Subscribers and Vlog Channel LifeWithTiarraMonet
-ShirleyBeniang - over 208K subscribers, over 12 million views
-TymeTheInfamous - over 194k subscribers, over 11 million views
-Fabulasityisme - over 190K subscribers, over 21 million views
-ItsMyRayeRaye - over 176K subscribers, over 6 million views
-DestinyGodley - Over 171K subscribers, over 28 million views
-ThomasAdrianna - over 165K subscribers, over 22 million views
-PeakMill - over 164K subscribers, over 13 million views
-LakiaStar - Over 157K subscribers, over 11 million views
-ULoveMegz - over 147K subscribers, over 19 million views
-Shameless Maya - over 142K subscribers, over 4 million views
-BackSyncFan - over 135K subscribers, over 9 million views
-ColouredBeautiful - Over 133K subscribers, over 11million views
-AllThingsFabulous101 - Over 131K subscribers, over 13 million views
-UglyFaceOfBeauty - over 139K subscribers, over 11 million views
-KimmayTube - over 129K subscribers, over 10 million views
-MakeUpDoll - over 125K subscribers, over 16 million views
-GlamTwinz334 (Kendra & Kelsey) - over 123K subscribers, over 8 million views
-Akaydoll (Kayla Lashae) - over 123K subscribers, over 10 million views
-LizLizLive - over 118K subscribers, over 15 million views
-MorganTaylor - Over 118K subscribers, over 12 million views
-BeatFaceHoney - over 117K subscribers, over 5 million views
-LipPumpkinPie - over 114K subscribers, over 9 million views
-Lover4Fashion - over 114K subscribers, over 7 million views
-PoisonFlowerIvy - Over 108K subscribers, over 9.5 million views
-Start2FinishMua - over 104K subscribers, over 4 million views
These are the top black women beauty gurus on YouTube. click on their links, check out their videos and subscribe to their channels. This list will be updated regularly so keep coming back.
Feel free to share the link to this page (do not copy this list for your own site, its copyrighted) on your social media pages.
Leave a comment is there's another woman of color that's a beauty guru with over 100,000 subscribers.
|Join Me On Instagram At: BeautyGuruReviews
Most Popular Beauty Gurus 2013-2014
"Top 50 Beauty Gurus With The Most Subscribers"
Click Here To See Top Hair Gurus
Click Here To See My Favorite YouTube Vlogs For 2013


text:
Symptom Navigator
Online Donations
Floor Maps
Visitor Guide
Calendar of Events
Reid Olympics encourages wellness for team, community
Patients and visitors to Reid over the past few weeks may have seen team members involved in activities ranging from a corn-hole competition to golf, flag football, biking and walking, among many others. What's it all about?
Tajuan Stoker, Reid's director of Wellness, said the Olympics were launched four years ago as a way to promote all aspects of wellness and wholeness among team members. "As health care workers, we not only want our team to set the example for healthy practices, we know that a healthier team will be an asset to the families and patients who come through our doors," Stoker said.
Craig Kinyon, Reid President/CEO, is a strong supporter of wellness for both his team and the community. "Practicing wellness means taking charge of your health rather than waiting and wondering. It means seeing your doctor regularly. It means knowing your risk factors for disease and taking steps to mitigate them. And we, as health care workers, should set the example for wellness practices."
The Reid Olympics is one of several wellness initiatives for team members. Others include "Step Up to the Challenge," a program encouraging and rewarding regular walking. Reid team members can also earn incentives for obtaining wellness screenings, for regular physical activity and following good nutrition practices. Stoker said more than 1,000 employees are involved.
Reid's Wellness Department has also increased offerings to area businesses and government employees, including health fairs and on-site wellness presentations. "We have several very affordable options for offering wellness screenings for groups of employees," he said. For larger companies, Reid wellness team members bring the program to the company. "We are also working on options for companies with fewer employees," he said.
For community education, the Wellness team has been offering a series of presentations called "Twelve in 2012," which includes at least one presentation each month in Lingle Auditorium at Reid on various topics, such as men's health, vaccinations, women's health and more.
Kinyon and Stoker said Reid has been working hard in the past three to four years to increase community awareness and in some cases, change the way people think about their health.
"Wellness not only saves lives, it also has a direct impact on adding more quality years to your life," Kinyon said. And, finding problems and treating them early can save thousands of dollars in future care costs.
"It's much better for the patient, for example, and much less costly for everyone, if diabetes is headed off before it develops or is controlled with wellness initiatives before it leads to heart disease, stroke or other conditions that can be associated with this condition," he said.
Kinyon said Reid will continue to expand outreach for wellness and work to create more awareness in the region about the importance of being proactive with your health. "We take this responsibility seriously," he said. "We know this will help lead us down a path to a healthier community."
Kinyon and Stoker offered these tips and reminders:
For more information about Reid wellness, contact Tajuan Stoker at (765) 983-3086 or email firstname.lastname@example.com.
Contact Us & Directions | Credits | Privacy Notice | Employee Login | Bill Pay
© 2014 Reid Hospital 1100 Reid Parkway Richmond, IN 47374 PHONE: (765) 983-3000
Our form 990, annual reports & financial statements are available upon request.


text:
On 3.55 WaniV2... you can start it... and you get back 2 XMB lets see... the fw update file is released too...Sponsored Links
On 3.55 WaniV2... you can start it... and you get back 2 XMB lets see... the fw update file is released too...Sponsored Links
What about PSX support in CFW?Sponsored Links
Here are the Cobra USB PDF guides and files if anyone is seeking to tinker with them...Sponsored Links
I've dropped it but I think its encrypted, though it's not really my area and I've been pretty drunk all day.
That's all kinds of awesome, I'll still wait for a free alternative though.
But PS1 and PS2 backup support is definitely a feature I've been waiting on for a while, given it only works with backwards compatible consoles it's pretty safe to say it uses the built in emulators and modifies gameOS to support loading the games in jailbreak mode. Definitely interesting how it uses .iso images and manages to avoid the reset problem.
Another update on the Cobra USB from their site:
lol has there even been a single review proving their existence let alone if they work or not?
There is a video in the first post HERE of it in action, but I still can't see paying for something that will end up being free (like the PS JailBreak and Downgrade) so here it to hoping it makes it into the hands of some sceners.


text:
Clinique All About Eyes Reviews
CliniqueI have been a big fan and follower of the Clinique brand for years. They were the first makeup that I really ever used. However I have never liked any of their skin care products. I felt that this eye cream was not an effective product at all. It did not feel rich or creamy like I would want an eye cream to be. It had a very watery texture and did not give moisture to the delicate eye area at all. — 1 year, 11 months agoLittleBunny | 536 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 2 of 2 people said helpful
Same as othersI've been using this for sometime and like other reviewers, I am not too sure if this is working. It does keep the skin around my eye area moisturized, but as for the other claims such as reducing puffiness or dark circles, I'm not entirely sure. — 3 years, 5 months agovolta | 562 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 3 of 5 people said helpful
A good moisturizer but does not reduce puffs or circles.I like how this product moisturizes the skin around my eyes, which can get dry due to all of the topical acne treatments I use. However, it does not reduce puffs or circles at all. — 5 years, 10 months agoLipglossandSpandex | 521 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 2 of 6 people said helpful
Great but I don't know if it is workingI have been using for several months. This is very gentle cream. I still have some dark circles, but I feel like pampering my eyes. I cannot honetly say that it works and fixs ever problem involving eyes. I wonder if I did not use it what my skin around eyes would look like. — 6 years, 6 months agoluckybetty | 895 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 2 of 6 people said helpful
NonirritatingThe All About Eyes cream I got (a Gift with Purchase) didn't irritate so that's a plus. After applying to under my eyes, I was ready to quickly wash my face and I didn't need to. Whew! I have very sensitive skin. But I used it for several days and it really is not miraculous so so I won't be purchasing it in the future. I'll stick with Aveeno. Reducing puffiness and wrinkles was minimal but it was a nonirritating cream that added moisture to under my eyes so I'll use up the container. — 5 years, 1 month agoleo1999 | 654 reviews
OkayAll About Eyes is fragrance free and non-irritating even for very sensitive eyes. This is a very light moisturizer that lightly hydrates the eye area and softens small wrinkles. Once it absorbs, it brightens the area around the eyes. I would give this a much higher rating, but I hate jar containers. They breed bacteria which is a no-no, especially in the eye area and it allows the beneficial i...read morengredients you are paying for (especially at its price point) to degrade quickly. I just got a sample of this in a tube and might consider buying it on a regular basis if Clinique sold it that way--I do prefer All About Eyes Rich because it hydrates more, but buy neither because of the packaging. — 5 years, 7 months agoThorne | 411 reviews
Smooth & soaks right inAfter applying most eye treatments, I still feel them during the night. Sometimes I still to my pillow, other times, I can just feel it sitting on my skin or on my eyelids. What I love most about this product is that it glides onto the skin. And it feels smooth to the touch once it sinks in (less than a minute). This will definitely be a summertime staple in the fridge. — 6 years, 2 months agoitaliaca | 252 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 1 of 2 people said helpful
so soThis creme didn't absorb into my skin that well, kind of just sat on top. It's slightly oily, so it's moisturizing but it didn't diminish lines or reduce puffiness. I use this instead to moisturize dry areas around my mouth, which works wonderfully, eliminating dry flakes. I will not buy another jar again, I don't know what the hype is about. Maybe you need very dry skin around eyes to work. — 6 years, 7 months agoMakeupGuru | 444 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 6 of 7 people said helpful
Unimpressivethis is just like a moisturizer, you may as well just use your face lotion on your eyes - there really isn't a need to buy a separate eye cream actually - but if you do buy one, get one with some sort of a highlighter or light reflection in the cream. I personally like Murad's eye silk or olay definity — 6 years, 4 months agobeautyguru_24_7 | 283 reviews
This review is: Helpful | Not helpful | Inappropriate | 0 of 2 people said helpful
I liked it.It made the area around my eyes look ok, but i rarely get to buy it, little too pricey. It would be my number one choice for eye creams for younger women. — 6 years, 6 months agoluxylexi | 234 reviews
to top
My Reasons for Reporting This


text:
e-News April 19, 2012
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
© 2014 American Medical Informatics Association. All Rights Reserved.
JAMIA Access
If you are a member with a JAMIA Subscription, go to
If you do not receive JAMIA through an AMIA membership, go to
If you like to join AMIA