Young Saudis ask, 'Where is the love?'

Intriguing perspective into a largely secretive society.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/05/11/mideast/saudi.php?page=1

The Sunni-Shiite Terror Network

Though ideologically at odd, the hate of America unites radical Islamists in their armed Jihad against the Western values of democracy, freedom and justice.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120675195927473485.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Muslims in U.S. turn to home schooling

Concerns over education go far beyond the Muslim community. Still, it is important to note that the cultural differences and integration into American society should not come at a cost of self-exclusion.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/26/america/muslim.php

Islam and Free Speech

The outcry is there against Islam's backwards ways in the Western world. Now it is time to determine how to address them.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120649269618764219.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Secular Jihad

Turkey's secularism is essential to its stability and prosperity.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120648058852163507.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Saudi king calls for dialogue among different religions

Interreligious dialogue is key for global understanding and progress. This initiative by King Abdullah is a good step for the region.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/25/africa/ME-GEN-Saudi-Interfaith-Dialogue.php

A Wall Street Journal Extravaganza

The Wall Street Journal today is peppered with excellent opinion pieces ranging from the 2008 presidential race to Islam in the West.

Toleration and Islamic Law
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277887999260839.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Canterbury Tale
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277071333660405.html?mod=opinion_main_europe_asia

The Clintons' Terror Pardons
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277819085260827.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

McCain and Talk-Show Hosts
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120277844588960675.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Getting to 270
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120268013352957191.html?mod=opinion_journal_political_diary

Turkey's Parliament lifts scarf ban

This is an important step for Turkey and improves its prospects of entering the European Union as well as garnering respect in the Western world. At its core, religious expression and practice is a fundamental freedom that must be protected and not a cause for concern in over-secularization of society.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/02/09/europe/10turkey.php

Justices to weigh what’s a humane execution

Capital punishment is an issue that will always dissuade from America's moral leadership.

I have yet to find a position in this debate. On one hand, I recognize certain violators of the law must not be a part of our society for their heinous crimes. On the other hand, is it really up to man to determine his fellow man's fate? Is that final judgment not up to God?

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22527985/

Farewell 2007, Welcome 2008

What defines who we are? Humanity has struggled with this question for years. Is it our successes, our failures, our relationships, our aspirations?

In 2007, I tried to address this issue in the context of my own life. My transatlantic venture to the Czech Republic last January proved much more self-revealing than any other trip I have taken. Although I participated in an extensive conference dealing with international relations, I still managed to find time to enjoy the beauty of Prague and reflect on my place in life. One brisk winter evening while crossing the Charles Bridge, I came to the following conclusions:

High school and college have proved a dramatic metamorphosis in my transition to young adulthood. I have made exponential progress in my education and created enduring friendships. This is what has truly shaped me into who I am today. My commitments on campus and in the community challenge and propelled me to new levels. This underlying purpose to my life outside school gives me direction and responsibility. Unfortunately, this somewhat distances me from the people I care about most – my family and friends.

Relationships nurture our development and effectiveness in society. For me, I have made them a barrier. I am generally a very reserved person; it takes a great deal to gain my confidence. This is somewhat a defense mechanism, but I have found that it has worked to my disadvantage. Many of my relationships simply come naturally within my commitments and compliment my objectives. I have taken the initiative to become more open to others and feel comfortable in doing different things with different people. I hope to get to the point where I value my relationships more and their essential role in my long-term strength.

Reasoning is our ability to transcend, learn and grow. This capability to mature is what characterizes us as humans. At this point, foresight, vision and innovation are what drive me forward. I hope to never lose this quality and always use it to my benefit. My voracious hunger for knowledge inspires me to break from my comfort zone and into the adventure zone. I look to Winston Churchill when he said, “To be really safe and happy, a man must have three or four interests.” We must be able to take our experiences and absorb all that we can to make us better people.

Religion also plays a role in who we are. Now, this is not a manifesto for the Judeo-Christian God, but rather, a personal set of values and goals. It can definitely apply to faith, and how it fits into one’s life. However, I am referring to a deep commitment and sacrifice for success. This genuine drive and determination must be resilient regardless of the situations and what is at stake. What your passion is will be up to you. Find it and pursue it, never giving up and always putting one's best effort.

In essence, this is what I am calling the Doctrine of the Common Man. These three “R’s,” if you will, are a formula to assist in the evolution of a high school/college student to a responsible adult. It is amazing how a simple walk on a five hundred year-old cobble stone bridge inspired such poignant thoughts in me. Take some time to outline your mantra, cherish your friendships, and value your understanding. Remember to be flexible and yet steadfast.

My personal revelation was likely years in the making. This cathartic look at my existence made me realize what I value most. In our materialistic society, we tend to overlook the events, people and ideas that shape our personas. I now challenge you to find yourself and see how the three R’s apply to you.

Iranian Jews find new homes in Israel

To this day the Jews are searching for their homeland. It is unfortunate that they cannot feel at home in this day and age. This should only strengthen our support for Israel.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/meast/12/25/israel.iranianexodus.ap/index.html

Blair converts to Catholicism

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has converted to Catholicism. As a Catholic myself, I feel that it is not so much the religion and tradition that helps people enter the Catholic Church, but its universal values and respect for life and liberty.

Deus Lux Mea Est

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22368586/