tol·er·ance
[tol-er-uhns]
–noun
1.
a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward those whose opinions, practices, race, religion, nationality, etc., differ from one's own; freedom from bigotry.
2.
a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward opinions and practices that differ from one's own.
3.
interest in and concern for ideas, opinions, practices, etc., foreign to one's own; a liberal, undogmatic viewpoint.
The reason I’m starting this post with definitions is because I want those who read this to understand the meaning of this word, how important it is for all of us to look at our own actions and how important it is for all of us to have tolerance to ensure a respectful and fulfilling life.
A lot has happened since the last time I wrote in. It has taken me a couple of months to get back on track. I must say I’m definitely glad to be back so much stronger and hopefully wiser.
I would love to find out if anyone of you out there has been discriminated in any way for your race, religion and practices or nationality.
I experienced that recently and it was and has been one of the most painful experiences yet. I’ve always heard and read stories and even watched movies about people being treated unfairly and unjustly because they lived among those who did not have any tolerance for anything remotely different from what they know and practiced.
I am being discriminated because of who I am, because I am a Muslim.
I never imagined that I would ever have to experience something like this especially in this year of age. I was too naïve to think that people have evolved and broaden their views. I thought people had learnt to become more tolerant with one another especially after all humanity has been through because of religion and politics.
I expected this kind of behavior to be found in countries where the nation is comfortable living in ignorance. I never considered Malaysia to have such inhabitants being one of the most peaceful multi-racial nations. But how wrong was I.
There are still people today who believe that all Muslims are terrorists, conmen, manipulators, gold-diggers and hypocrites just because of the actions of a few ignorant and fanatic Muslims who believe in violence and terror.
These people who are guilty of intolerance and bigotry does not believe in getting to know me or in giving me a chance.
The fact that I am a Muslim is enough reason for them to treat me as they please. I was even attacked physically by one of them!
It’s so sad and discouraging to know that we still live in a world where bigotry and violence is permissible just because people can’t seem to find an ounce of tolerance in them.
My message to everyone is to please look at yourselves, your behavior, your attitude and your actions before judging others. We may think we’ve got it all together but that’s usually the common misconception that tends to lead us to being ignorant and hypocritical. Being blind to your own faults and addressing everyone else’s based on who they are and their religious beliefs and practices wouldn’t be the kind of lives they’d want to lead.
Please analyze yourselves and look into yourselves to find out what you really think about injustices such as this. Have you ever been a victim? Or have you been the guilty party at any point in your life? Do not discredit what you might find out about yourself. Make it a point to acknowledge it and try to work on being better.
Strive to be a tolerant, loving and caring human being. There’s more to gain than lose. Always reflect on yourself, your attitude and your actions. It will be one of the best things you could possibly do for yourself and your growth as a respectable, peaceful human being.
I have one last thing to say. I am proud of who I am. I am proud to be Natasha Ilyas. I’m proud to be a Muslim. And I’m proud to be brought up by my mother who has always taught me to be tolerant and respectful of others regardless of race, class, or religion. Thank you so much for that mama.
