Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Evangelism (11/01/07)
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TITLE: Akim's Journey in a New Land | Previous Challenge Entry
By Marty Wellington
11/07/07 -
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To: [email protected]
Subject: Update from America
Date: September 30, 2007 11:31 PM
Dearest Brother,
I am sure you have been wondering how we are here in America. The university has a beautiful campus with stone buildings. There are many trees and the climate is moderate, much like our father’s farm. We found housing near to campus. There is a small community of Saudis here and we recently connected with several of them. The town even has a mosque which I visit regularly.
I passed my literacy exams. Shatha is still having trouble with her English and has not received a high enough score to begin classes.
Have you seen our son lately? Shatha misses him terribly. I’m sure he has changed, even in just these few short weeks.
The people, at least where we are staying, are not the monsters many of our countrymen would have us believe. We have been shown every kindness. I even have a new American friend. His name is Mark. He took Shatha and me to a local international food store so we could buy groceries. We have also been to his home for dinner. His wife is a wonderful cook. Shatha has trouble with all the new foods. I, on the other hand, have enjoyed trying the new dishes. Many are very delicious.
I must go now. It is very late. I hope you and your family are well.
Assalamu alaikum
Azim
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: Update from America
Date: October 2, 2007 10:11 AM
Attachments: Saeed1.jpg, Saeedgarden.jpg, SaeedFather.jpg
Azim,
It is good to hear from you. I worry for you sometimes living so far from home. I am glad to hear there is a mosque nearby for prayer and support. I am not so sure Father would approve of your American friend. Though they may seem kind, they are still infidels. Be careful that he does not lead you astray of your faith. Allah be blessed.
Mother and Father came to my home for a visit last week. Your little Saeed is growing. Our Father is so proud of him. Mother took pictures of him in the garden playing. Photos are attached for you.
Be careful. Study hard and return to us safely, little brother.
Assalamu alaikum wa barakatuhu
Hussein
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: News
Date: November 27, 2007 10:42 PM
Attachments: dinner1.jpg, dinner2.jpg, horse.jpg
Hussein,
Today Shatha and I were invited to spend the day with an American family. It is a national holiday called Thanksgiving. A time to show thanks to their god for blessings and family. Good, yes?
Shatha was a little frightened about whether she would be accepted by the woman of the home. All was well, though. The food was interesting. We had our first taste of turkey and pumpkin. We felt most welcomed. The man even invited me to ride his horses with him. We enjoyed a wonderful ride through woods and up a big hill where we could see beautiful sights. Shatha is afraid of horses, but she soon gained courage and took several pictures of me on the horse. I attached the photos for you.
This family showed a strong bond through their family and faith in the christian god. We learned much of their traditions and religion. Most interesting day. I would like to spend more time with them.
Must go now.
Akim
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: RE: News
Date: November 28, 2007 8:14 AM
Akim,
I am worried for you little brother. Your note sounded like you were excited about the American’s religion. Be careful. Nothing good can ever come from that religion.
I will pray to Allah that you and Shatha remain pure in your faith. Be strong and may Allah be with you.
Your brother,
Hussein
-------------------
Akim stared at his brother’s words on the computer monitor. They were stark and to the point. He knew Hussein would never understand. However, Mark and the American family had made him think about many things.
Shatha was also curious about the Christian religion. Her conversation with the woman had centered on spiritual matters and Shatha wanted to learn more.
Akim leaned back in his chair and sighed. Tomorrow he was meeting with his friend Mark. The world was indeed much larger than Saudi Arabia and Islam. Maybe there was truth outside his world that deserved exploring.
Tomorrow he would ask his friend Mark for an Arabic language Bible and see for himself.
Notes:
Assalamu alaikum – peace be upon you (Arabic)
Assalamu alaikum wa barakatuhu – peace be upon you and blessings (Arabic)
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