Sam Ashby's Blog

Understanding Islam

samashby12 — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 23:01:13 +0000

More than a billion people are adherents to it. It is arguably the fastest growing religion in the world. Yet there seems to be a cloud of apprehension and fear that hangs over a lot of people in the United States when it comes to Islam. There has been much discussion and debate about the misconceptions about Islam and where they come from. Some say it is the media’s lack of positive coverage on the religion, while others suggest it is just a simple misunderstanding and ignorance of the faith. Whatever the case, I was curious as to why a religion and a culture that billions on the planet embrace and live by is so misunderstood and stereotyped against by some in the U.S and around the world.
I started to gain an interest in Islam and the Middle East shortly after the Iraq War began. Television reports were focused almost daily on the fighting and on the battle to oust Saddam Hussein. For the next few months and years, the world’s gaze is fixed on the Middle East, much like it is now. By the time Election 2008 had rolled around, Islam was a subject that many had trouble understanding and grasping. Although the Iraq War focused my attention on Islam, it wasn’t until the past Election that I began to have sympathy with Muslims in America. Everyone remembers it, the rumors and chain e-mails that circulated throughout the internet that stated that then-Senator Barack Obama was a Muslim and that he had taken his oath for the Senate on the Qur’an. Although the noise finally subsided after a while, there are still some out there today who claim our President is a Muslim. But what if he were? Would it matter? It shouldn’t. This is what former Secretary of State Colin Powell brought up in a now famous interview on “Meet the Press” in October of 2008: “He’s always been a Christian. But really the right answer is, what if he is [a Muslim]? Is there something wrong with being a Muslim in this country? The answer’s no, that’s not America.”
Fast forward to summer of this year. After the elections in Iran, reports of election fraud began to flood social media sites and major news organizations. Then the protests began. Young and old Iranians alike began to fill the streets of Tehran and cities all over the globe demanding the world take notice to what is happening. It was at this moment, watching the brave young people of Iran risking their lives for democracy and freedom, that I became inspired. The next few days millions across the globe watched as helpless Iranian citizens were mercilessly beaten and silenced by a cruel regime. Many gave up their lives for what we here in America sometimes all too often take for granted: freedom. Then after a week or two, the reports stopped. The protests quieted down, and everything went back to the way it was. That wasn’t the case in Iran though. There are still young Iranian students and civilians fighting for their freedom, waiting to be heard. Many have been jailed and tortured for simply speaking out against the Supreme Leader.
After the noise quieted down, I began to focus my attention on Muslims here in the United States. What was being done to spread the knowledge of Islam and defeat the misconceptions and prejudices? My search came close to home, right here at Middle Tennessee State University. The Muslim Students Association is one of the most active clubs on campus. Their goal is to “educate Muslims and non-Muslims about Islam through a variety of activities and events.” It’s safe to that the MSA has an uphill battle to climb when it comes to educating those who may not know a lot about Islam. Like the citizens of Iran, they too face an important struggle. One that is just as urgent and necessary as the battle for freedom in Iran. The battle to help Muslims who are fighting for freedom in Iran and around the globe starts with those who are educating others about Islam, an example being the MSA. These students know that knowledge is power, and with that power comes the chance to improve the lives of millions around the word.

All Eyes on the United Nations

samashby12 — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 03:36:32 +0000

I haven’t forgotten about you guys. I’ll have a new post up within the next few days. In the meanwhile, I suggest everyone check out these links below. Some major stories happening.

U.S. Census Worker Found Hanged–A.P.

Ahmadenijad speaks at the U.N.–A.P.

Information Nation

samashby12 — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:44:00 +0000

Note: This article was published as part of my column in the September 21, 2009 edition of MTSU Sidelines. Visit mtsusidelines.com for more information.

I am not one for uncivilized discourse. I have always had the mindset that if two parties involved in an argument cannot see the bigger picture of an issue and what is needed to resolve it, then there is no point in engaging. The word “civility” seems to be a concept that many have thrown out the window. Before the past few months, I was an optimist. I really did believe those who engaged in shout-fests and name-calling was reserved for the young people like ourselves, who sometimes get caught up in the heat of the moment, and for political pundits on television who are just looking to increase their ratings in the end. That all changed for me during and after the Presidential election of 2008. Sound bites and political scare tactics seemed to become the name of the game. Phrases such as “terrorist”, “socialism”, “Joe the Plumber”, and others began to break their way through the surface. People around the nation instantly took grasp of all these, and ran with them. To me, it seemed like the final line had been drawn.

Where it did go wrong? Where is it headed? To be honest, I really don’t know. Many people seem to have taken the route I have chosen though: to become a sideline observer. After the election I began to tell myself that if I just watch everything and not get involved with the arguing and name calling, then maybe I could positively benefit from all of it. I thought, if I can keep a straight head about myself and try to find the truth then maybe I could have a better-informed opinion when I do want to make a case for a certain argument. Many Americans, like myself though, seemed to feel let down. Not only by the politicians who they elected to serve them, but by also the news media. I believe this is one component in a series of events and attitudes that have changed the way the public views not only public policy but also world events, entertainment news, etc. With all of this happening, with all the noise coming in from every possible direction, it’s easy to say “that’s enough” and never engage in any of it.

One problem many recognize is the seemingly increasing rise of non-objective news. Every night, millions of television viewers turn on their TVs to watch Bill O’Reilly, Glenn Beck, Wolf Blitzer, Lou Dobbs, and countless others deliver the “news”. Americans are smart, we can see through the slant they present. But unfortunately it seems now many only want to hear the things that back up their beliefs. Many seem unwilling to listen to opinions that are different from theirs, for fear that their own may change. In the end this will only have a harmful effect, not only on those who don’t want to know the other side, but also on the entire nation. When we are given the freedom to choose the information that we can listen to and internalize, we are given an awesome power. When choosing information, it might be important to ask a series of questions, such as “does the information come from a reliable source?” and “does this give an accurate picture of what is really happening?”

There seems to be a silver lining in all of this though. With the rise of social media, many have taken the responsibilities of reporting the news and made it their own. Websites such as iReport and YouTube’s “Citizen Tube” channel offer regular, everyday people a chance to tell the story that is actually happening without the influence of spin doctors or big media executives. Additionally, channels such as PBS are usually (not all the time, though) said to have more of a “non-biased” point of view with news programs such as Frontline. Ultimately, we as consumers have the power to choose in the end. It is up to each of us to decide just what we want to think, and ultimately contribute to this country and the world.

American Perceptives

samashby12 — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 01:31:00 +0000

Note: This article was published as part of my column in the September 14, 2009 edition of MTSU Sidelines. Visit mtsusidelines.com for more information.

After the third or fourth time, I had had it. Sweat pouring down my face and my back aching, I told myself that I didn’t need to think about it so much. But for someone like myself, thinking things over is almost impossible. The garbage cans always weighed what seemed to be 60 pounds. I’m a small guy, I could barely lift it over my head let alone throwing it into the large green dumpster. The food reeked, and there always seemed to be a tear in the bag regardless of how hard I tried to keep it from ripping across the ground. I am convinced that when working in a restaurant, you see the worse in people. People seem to become very stingy and rude when it comes to their food. I don’t blame them though; I can see where they are coming from. It’s hard to take on this perceptive when you are the one throwing away their leftovers at the end of the business day.

This was my initial thinking behind my leaving my restaurant job. I didn’t want to be part of something that seemed to forget about the bigger picture. The bigger picture being that while we eat this food, there are millions around the world who would give up their own life for a plate of what we may eat every day to ensure that their family will survive. Although it’s a strong way of thinking and is definitely something that will leave one seeing the world in a different light, it wasn’t until I read an article in the National Geographic by Robert Draper about Somalia that gave me an entirely new perceptive on this all-too-common dilemma in the modern world. The one sentence read, “Food is power in Somalia.” It hit me like a brick to my face. All those times carrying out garbage, sweating over that 60 pound can, I was literally holding in my hands the course of an entire nation, whether it be Somalia or any other nation in a similar situation.

Many citizens of the modern world, countries like America, Great Britain, Canada, etc., etc., tend to sometimes overlook the power of the everyday items they use. We are lucky that we aren’t faced with the problems many nations around the world have to endure: crumbling infrastructure, dirty water, and malnutrition. The list goes on and on. We are in a fortunate position. This can lead to danger though. It can lead to a fatal perspective. It’s important that we not become too comfortable with our lifestyle, that we sometimes take a step back and realize how fortunate we are to live in a country that is not plagued with the problems many others face on a daily basis. It is our duty then to take some time out of our busy schedules once and a while to not only help those who are less fortunate in the U.S., but also around the globe. In an age now of reality television, celebrity shows, and entertainment news, it seems that many Americans have lost touch with what is really going on in our own country and the world.

Losing perspective can be easy, it’s happened to all of us, but there are ways that we can regain our composure and see what’s happening around us with fresh eyes. First, volunteer every once and a while. There are plenty of opportunities on campus and off campus to get involved. During the process hopefully you’ll gain a new outlook on what you have and the things you are thankful for. Second, watch television that seeks to informs viewers and not entertain them. Yes, I like to be entertained but it’s more important to be informed and “in the know” if you ever want to make a positive contribution in your classes and to your nation. Programs on channels such as PBS, National Geographic, and the Discovery Channel usually serve to inform viewers of different political issues, cultures, religious beliefs, and events. Lastly, join organizations that spark an interest in you. Not only will you meet others who share the same likes and goals as you, the organization might provide service activities for members to get involved with.

With the position we are in as a country with vast influence on the global stage, we would be foolish not to contribute to the world around us. A better-informed American citizenry not only benefits this country but also is a giant step forward in improving the conditions many face every year and creating a more cohesive and positive global community.

Third Time’s a Charm

samashby12 — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 04:28:00 +0000

Well, after giving it some thought I’ve decided to once again change my major. I’m pretty certain that this will be the last time. I am currently an English major but want to change to Electronic Media Communication and one day go into broadcast journalism. There are several factors that have led me to this decision. First, I have grown up watching the news. When sons watched football games and NASCAR with their fathers, I was watching the NBC Nightly News and Nightline with mine. Second, I love to tell stories. I have always loved writing, and have been told that I am a good writer/storyteller. Lastly, it just feels right. I know that sounds cheesy but it feels like it is my calling. I love to travel and I love meeting people and experiencing the world around me. I think journalism offers an excellent opportunity to do just that. I knew entering college that I wanted a career that would be a catalyst for change; and journalism, like politics, is another engine for change. I believe journalism to be a public service just like politics or becoming a doctor. The American people put their faith in the press to deliver them the truth and to hold our public officials accountable. Although it seems these past few years many have become hostile toward many journalists, I do believe the majority of them are working hard every day to deliver the truth and to keep us informed, not only of what’s going on here in America but to also give us a perspective of other events happening around the globe. In addition, I want to go into broadcast instead of print journalism because I also love visuals. I’m a fan of movies and photography, and I believe a story can have a lasting impact with the use of carefully crafted photos and camera work. So, in a nutshell that’s why I’m changing my major once again. I have kicked out the thought in my head of graduating in four years.. as that doesn’t seem plausible anymore. But that’s okay with me. There are billions in the world who don’t even have access to education. I think I’ll take my chances.

War of Words

samashby12 — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 03:20:00 +0000

Tonight on AC360, Jim Greer was the guest along with CNN political analyst Roland Martin. Mr. Greer is a member of the Republican Party in Florida. Supposedly President Obama is to speak to students in Florida this week or next on the issue of education. (I could be wrong about this, I don’t remember exactly where he will be speaking, I just know it is to students). Mr. Greer, in the interview with Anderson, states that President Obama will make “political” remarks that shouldn’t be appropriate for school-aged children, discussing policy initiatives such as healthcare and the economy. The problem? Mr. Greer hasn’t seen the speech. This. This is what is tearing this country apart. Politicians have become masters of the art of word twisting, saying things the right way to get people to agree with them and hate the other side. Or, in Mr. Greer’s case: making assumptions or predictions based off non-existent evidence. Ultimately this is harming our country. I think this is when our press, the media should step in. But unfortunately, it seems it’s come to personality-driven pundit shows that rate as top sellers. It seems accountability is just a foreign concept almost. What happened? Why has accountability been almost completely erased form the American political system? This is something that will come back to haunt us, and it is something that is essential to this democracy. If the press won’t hold politicians accountable, if politicians won’t do it for themselves. Who do we look to, then? The answer is ourselves. We as citizens have to start taking an active role in making sure the information we receive is true and balanced. But how might one go about doing this? First, we need to be educated. Not just about WHO political players may be, but the system in which they are involved with. Politics in America is like a machine. There are many parts and aspects to it that work behind the scenes to project the image that we all see of politics and the players. The carefully crafted speeches, how an argument is made, even the way one looks. All of this is thought about. Politics is theatre. You would be very naive to think otherwise. And that’s why America relied on the press and our journalists: to tear down the theatricality of politics and show citizens what is really going on so that we may make an informed decision that will be vital to the progress of this country. Unfortunately, it seems like the press has deviated from this all important role.

EDIT: Here is the video, it has been uploaded on YouTube. I’d also like to note that Roland Martin is a well-known Republican, just in case someone wants to throw out the whole “two liberals ganging up on one GOP member”.

Video

Fascination TV

samashby12 — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 04:33:00 +0000

“I can’t believe they cancelled Megan Wants a Millionaire” “She does NOT deserve him at all!”

These are just some of the things I see on my friend’s statuses on Facebook. Yes, they are concerning reality television. I am one to say that I have been lucky enough to not become intwined in this crap. Yes, that’s what I think it is: crap. Has it gotten so bad that we are actually concerned with the lives of D-list celebrities? Have we totally turned a cold shoulder to quality television? What is going on? I think we haven’t. In a world now that is connected, we want our entertainment in fast, dramatic bursts. Reality television provides us with these on a daily basis. My problem with reality television is that there’s no depth to it whatsoever. It requires no thinking at all in part to the viewer. They just want to be entertained. Well, what’s wrong with just wanting to be entertained? I say nothing. But, when we replace entertainment for quality thought stimulation happens on an almost constant basis, I think that’s when a problem is created. Growing up, I was lucky enough to have a father who watched programs such as Nightline, Siskel and Ebert, Meet the Press, and the like. When I think of television, this is what I think of. Because it’s what I grew up watching. I am in no way putting down people who do watch reality TV, I just think it comes to a point though at times where some begin to become almost obsessed with it. And they talk about it as if it were their job or their family. To me, that’s incredibly sad. Hopefully though some will begin to see the light one day. Hopefully.

Death of a Lion, End of an Era

samashby12 — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 04:21:00 +0000

Note: This article was published as part of my column in the August 31, 2009 edition of MTSU Sidelines. Visit mtsusidelines.com for more information.

The name “Kennedy” has become ingrained in the landscape of our American culture. They are a family that we have been fascinated with for the past half-century. It’s safe to say that the Kennedys have seen their share of tragedies over the years: the assassination of a President, brother, and son, the death of another brother running for the same office, a drunk driving episode that left a young woman dead and another’s own political ambitions to be questioned, and the countless others that have reverberated throughout the years. Edward Kennedy, or more affectionately referred to as Teddy, was one in a long line of players who shaped the American political culture throughout the latter part of the 20th century. He passed away Tuesday night after a lengthy battle with brain cancer.

Kennedy is admired because he embodies what many Americans seek in their politicians today. He had a sense of purpose, calling health care reform the “cause of his life.” Although he never passed any legislation that provided major sweeping changes to the health care industry in the U.S., he did, however, pass bills over the years that added small steps toward change in the area. Some of these include the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, which “ensures access to health care coverage for an estimated 25 million Americans who move from one job to another, are self-employed or have pre-existing medical conditions,” according to a statement listing his accomplishments released by his Senate office.

Other systemic health care reform bills include the 1960s act that placed community health centers across the country that specialized in serving low-income families and those who may not be covered under a health

insurance plan.

Health care reform was not the only issue he pursued adamantly. He was a voice for the disadvantaged, and was also a strong supporter of national defense. I don’t want to spend the rest of the time listing his accomplishments, but I think it’s important to take note of a part of what he has worked to change here in America since his first election in 1962. Why, one might be asking, was Ted Kennedy such a giant in the American political landscape? Why did he convey that sense of hope, long before Barack Obama came along? The answer is far greater than his last name, or in the deeds of his famous brothers.

It lies in his character and in his passion and love for this country. Edward Kennedy came from a privileged family, and many might argue that this may leave him out of touch with the everyday working American, but Kennedy didn’t let his wealthy upbringing stop him from understanding the issues that millions of Americans face on a daily basis. He never gave up, and he always did his best to understand the issue at hand. That is what Sen. Kennedy will be remembered for most. That his is legacy, and that is why so many Americans look up to him. I am in no way saying that Ted Kennedy wasn’t a seasoned politician, because he was. He knew how to play the political game, and he played it well. He believed that as long as things were moving forward then progress was being made.

Although the passing of Sen. Kennedy marks the end of an era in American politics, it also marks the start of a new one. It is obvious that many Americans looked up to Kennedy and other politicians like him.

Luckily, there are signs that many across the country are taking on the spirit that Ted Kennedy was known for. One can see it every day on college campuses, in the workplace and at home: a passion for America and a drive to serve those who are less fortunate. As long as we keep our eyes on the important objectives, as long as we put aside our petty differences and continue to work together as one nation, then we will continue to live up to the spirit of Sen. Kennedy and so many that have come before and after him.