On that beautiful day, Mohammed and I (a couple of physcians sitting alone in our office) watched on television as the second plane crash into the second tower of the World Trade Center. He ran from the room yelling– “they destroyed everything I have worked for!” I quickly ran after and grabbed him; I needed an immediate explanation. Mo’s view was simply that his family would be discriminated against…that his financial ruin would be certain.
Fast forward 6 months. I now have an opportunity to ask Mohammed if his life has changed. His response is a simple “no”. I point out to him that I assured him that his life would be stable—after all, this is America. The same country he came to 20 years before and took advantage of the economic opportunities and religious freedom. To quote, “…to practice Islam” appropriately as explained by my dear old friend.
Later, I pushed him about his feelings on 9/11. As a “moderate” Pakistani Muslim who has embraced America economically and as a religious haven, I expected an opinion supporting the US.
His response was immediate condemnation of America’s relationship with Israel and the oppression of his Palestinian brothers. I asked if he stood up at his mosque or with Muslims in his community and condemned the attacks on America. Silence.
Absolute silence…
Mohammed and I no longer speak to each other. There is no reason no purpose. His American citizenship is a not a reason for a common bond. On the contrary, we have nothing in common. I view his presence in America as an abomination… such is the effect of 9/11
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