Well the reason why I am here? I am here because as an Imam I deal with people on a daily basis, even ex Muslims sometimes. I see how Muslims treat people who were once part of our community, but for whatever reason left it, and I really don't like the way Muslims treat not only non Muslims, but apostates. It's one thing to disagree with a person, quite another to want to spill their blood for something that doesn't warrant it. I would like, perhaps with some of your help form an alternative view, and interpretation of Islam. All of us can agree that the current practice of Islam in most Muslim countries is lacking in what we see in Christianity, and other religions. Such as brotherly love, respect of not only fellow believers, but non believers, and a gentle, loving way of calling them to the faith. I have nothing against anyone personally. We are all human beings, we all relate to the world around us in different ways, and rationalize things differently.
What I hope to get out of this forum is pretty much get your opinions, and ideas on what is wrong with Islam as it is practiced today. I do love my faith, and I have alot of wonderful, kind people in my congregation, but I know that in the countries where some of you originate from, non Muslims, and those who have left Islam are treated like Animals, and worse. My ex wife is from Nigeria, and she's told me of several stories about what goes on between Muslims, and Christians there.
You may or may not be surprised to hear that I get a lot of Muslims contacting me and sharing their doubts and concerns. Many of them tell me they can't talk to anyone - least of all their Sheikh or Imam.
I think that is your number one challenge - to show those Muslims with doubts that they don't have to fear you - they don't have to fear their family or community.
That it's OK to have doubts.
It's OK to want to choose how one wants to live one's life
It's even OK to leave Islam.
Personally I would genuinely love to see the day Muslims can get over the fact that people can reject Islam and it doesn't mean they are evil.
Get to a point where they don't just say honour killing is wrong - but challenge the ignorant pride and sense of honour and misogynistic attitudes of the society that creates the backdrop for such things to take place.
Maybe you would get more Muslims coming to you - and fewer would come to confide in me.
Topic: The Deen of Allah