SALAM PAX IN DC: Excerpt:

When my turn comes to step up to the podium for the archangels to question my reasons for entering this land of dreams, this heaven on earth, I get asked a question that will trouble me for a long time after the interview is over: “Sir, are you religious?”

Now, I am the type of Muslim who would tell you that even if there was an Allah hovering up there, he should be punished by collective disobedience because he has been doing a miserable job.

So the answer to Mr Immigration Officer would be a hearty: “Oh, no. I dropped that potato a long time ago.” But instead I keep looking at the little cross hanging from his neck and feel like telling him that this is none of his business. But I don’t. We all know why he is asking me this question and what my answer should be: “No, sir, I am not religious and I do not know how to prove that to you.” I feel ashamed that I have just said these words.

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via Iraq Blog Count.