Jazeera, abaayo u might wanna correct the links. The first link has an extra t and if u can erased it will just work fine. The second link has extra period at the end of 'htm'. Very interesting conspiracy theories there. Thanks Jazeera. Shaqsii sxb I read the article and find it very interesting. More about words of wisdom. ------------------ I HAVE LEARNED I've learned that you cannot make someone love you. All you can do is be someone who can be loved. The rest is up to them. I've learned that no matter how much I care, some people just don't care back. I've learned that it takes years to build up trust and only seconds todestroy it. I've learned that it's not what you have in your life but who you have in your life that counts. I've learned that you can get by on charm for about fifteen minutes.After that, you'd better know something. I've learned that you shouldn't compare yourself to the best others can do, but to the best you can do. I've learned that it's not what happens to people that's important. It's what they do about it. I've learned that no matter how thin you slice it, there are always two sides. I've learned that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them. I've learned that you can keep going long after you think you can't. I've learned that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences. I've learned that there are people who love you dearly, but just don't know how to show it. I've learned that sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel. I've learned that true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love. I've learned that just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to doesn't mean they don't love you with all they have. I've learned that no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that. I've learned that it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself. I've learned that no matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn't stop for your grief. I've learned that our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. I've learned that just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do. I've learned that sometimes you have to put the individual ahead of their actions. I've learned that two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different. I've learned that no matter the consequences, those who are honest with themselves get further in life. I've learned that your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you. I've learned that even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help. I've learned that writing, as well as talking, can ease emotional pains. I've learned that the people you care most about in life are taken from you too soon. I've learned that it's hard to determine where to draw the line between being nice and not hurting people's feelings and standing up for what you believe." Source: Unknown

You are very wlc Darman. Muxtarima Bulo u wlc sis. Nur, if u have minutes to spare plz add ur thoughts.

If I ever saw coward under a mask, it was on his face just before the war. I can't remembar what program (60 minutes perhaps) but he was giving an interview to Dan Rather talking big like a fighter. Who would have thought that the Arab lion he claimed he was will be caught like a "rat" in a "spider" hole without a fight. Worst he was opening his mouth under the whims of a soldier...whatta disgrace! Today from the col. who captured to all the way to the president all rushed to make a lasting and remembered statement so they can go down in history as statesmen. No sympathy for him but saddened by the opportunity his captivity provides to the likes of Bush.

Hope this will help all of us who, from time to time, got into some heated discussion in the Islamic thread. --------------------------- Presentation by Mohamed Baianonie, Imam of the Islamic Center of Raleigh NC, given at the CIC’s third annual conference held in Columbia, SC on Saturday, June 20, 1998) Normally, when we are in agreement, it is easy for us to behave properly with each other. On the other hand, when we are in a disagreement, we don’t know how we should behave. What makes it worse is that some of us try to cover their misbehavior with an Islamic taste. These people who do this, try to show that they are very concerned about the deen of Allah. When, In reality, they are ignorant in the Islamic teachings and how they should behave Islamicly. Before I talk about the Etiquette of Disagreement, I should explain what disagreement means and what is acceptable and what is not. Also I will mention some benefits that we can gain from acceptable disagreement. Definition: Disagreement is when ideas, positions, or sayings carried by an individual or group are different from the opinions of others. What is acceptable and what is unacceptable disagreement among Muslims? A. Acceptable disagreement is every different opinion in Islam carried by scholars. This could happen in the matters where there is no clear-cut evidence, because of the authenticity of the chain of narration, or by the variation in the understanding of the text. Most of the Islamic text is considered from this type. The result of that is that we can see many issues disagreed upon among the Islamic scholars. This acceptable disagreement in Islam will be rewarded by Allah (S.W.T.) at least one time with the possibility of being rewarded twice. This is because of what Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) said in an authentic hadith reported by Imams Bukhari, Muslim, and Abu-Dawud, "If the Hakim (ruler or judge) made his Ijtihad (by extracting the verdict from original sources of legislation) and he reached the correct verdict he will get two rewards. And if he reached the wrong verdict he will get one reward." And also in another evidence for acceptable disagreement in Islam what was reported by Imams Bukhari and Muslim that Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) ordered his companions after the battle of Al-Ahzab saying, "No one of you should pray Asr until you reach the village of Bani-Qurazah (A Jewish tribe)." While they were on their way, the time of Asr came. Some companions said we should not pray until we reach Bani-Qurazah. Some others said we should pray Asr now because the Prophet (S.A.W.) did not mean for us to leave the Asr prayer, but he wanted us to be in a hurry. So some of the companions prayed Asr, while the others continued until they reached Bani-Qurazah after sunset. When they went back to the Prophet, they mentioned to him the story and he did not blame ether one of them." This hadith shows clearly that the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) accepted both opinions, because if one of them were wrong the Prophet would have expressed it at that time. The Acceptable disagreement includes the different opinions carried by Mujtahideen (qualified Muslim Scholars whom extract the verdict from the Qur'an and the sunnah and do not follow opinions of others, like Imams Abou-Hanifah, Malik, Shfi'i and Ahmad Ibn-Hanbal), because that opinion was derived from the legislative sources. Acceptable disagreements can include the matters of Aqeedah where there is no clear-cut evidence. For example, what was reported by Imam Muslim on what happened between Ibn-Abbas and Aisha’, may Allah be pleased with both of them. In the matter referring to Prophet Muhammad’s (S.A.W.) seeing Allah with his naked eye during the night of Mi’raj. Ibn-Abbas (R.A.) believed that the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) saw Allah with his naked eye during the night of Mi’raj. He use to tell the people that. He used as evidence verse (12 &13) from Surat An-Najim, what can be translated as, "Will you then dispute with him (Muhammad) about what he saw. And indeed he saw him at a second descent (another time)." And when Aisha’ heard about his opinion she said, "The hair on my head stood up" meaning she was shocked. Then she said, "Whoever claims that Muhammad (S.A.W.) saw his Lord in the night of Mi’raj, brought a big lie on Allah (S.W.T.)." She supported her opinion by Verse (103) in Surat Al-Ana’m, what can be translated as, "No vision can grasp Him (Allah), but His Grasp is over all vision. He is the Most Subtle and Courteous, Well-Acquainted with all things. " In this case the disagreement is between Ibn-Abbas and Aisha’ may Allah be pleased with both of them in a matter of Aqeedah. This disagreement resulted from different interpretations of the text, not because of its authenticity. B. Unacceptable disagreement is every disagreement in the matters of deen where there is clear cut evidence. This is because of the authenticity of the chain of narration, or when there is no room for more than one understanding of the text. This also includes any different opinion carried by people that are not scholars in deen. Those who get involved in such type of dispute or disagreement are falling in a sinful act motivated by desire and Satan. Some good benefits that come from acceptable disagreement: 1.This acceptable disagreement allows one to know all possible opinions proven by the evidence. 2. It gives more options of opinions giving more flexibility for the people to implement Islam in their lives. The Etiquettes of acceptable disagreement in Islam: 1. The Muslim should avoid disagreement as much as possible. Simply because the agreement should be the original situation and disagreement should come only when there is a valid reason. 2. That the Muslims should only have acceptable disagreements among themselves based on what has been mentioned. 3. In case of a dispute Muslims, or disagreement in any matter of deen should referee to the Book of Allah and the Authentic sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). However in any matter of worldly live should be refereed to those who specialize in the matters. 4. The Muslim must be ready to accept the verdict from Allah (S.W.T.) and His Messenger with complete submission after the truth becomes clear to them. In this case they should not stick to the wrong opinion. 5. The intention in the disagreement should be only pure for the sake of Allah (S.W.T.), not to satisfy one's desire or arrogance. 6. Everyone in this disagreement should believe that there is a possibility for the others to have the truth or the correct opinion. 7. People, who disagree, should have the good Etiquette and behavior in their discussion. This should include that they look to the matter objectively, not to go out of the subject, choosing the accurate word, clarifying the meaning of the term that they will use, and also that they select the best words and statement avoiding the bad ones, that they listen to the other opinions carefully with an open mind, and finally, to avoid interrupting others when talking while giving enough time for them to express their points. 8. People who disagree should not continue with aimless arguing, they should end their discussion soon after the opinions are proven clearly or when believing that the others are hardheaded with their opinion. 9. Muslims in their disagreement should restrain themselves from accusing others of deviation, corruption, or other accusations, and should instead believe that they are good and sincere in their opinions. 10. The goal of the discussion should be only to reach the correct opinion and that it is not important to reach the correct opinion through you or others. 11. If no agreement is reached, then they should respect each other’s opinion with finding an excuse for that person. This is in the frame and methodology of the people of the sunnah and jama'h. And also to cooperate with other points agreed upon. 12. Supplication to Allah (S.W.T.) to open our hearts and minds to the truth. O’ Allah show us the truth clearly and help us to follow it and love it. O’ Allah show us the false clearly and help us to stay away from it and to hate it. ------------------------------------------------ All the contents of this Web site are protected by Copyright Laws and International Trade Agreements. Viewers are entitled to print and distribute the contents as long as they are clearly marked as the Intellectual property of IAR. Copyright © 1996 - 2001 IAR All rights reserved.

Here is a challenge for all nomads especially the ones who adviced us to: 1. Refrain from personal attacks. 2. Stop to tell others how to practice their Deen. 3. Stop insulting others and their intelligence. 4. Stop name-calling. 5. Stop forcing others to adopt our ways. 7. Observe good manners when doing preaching. 8. Stop the character assassination. The challenge is to find instances where these rules were not observed in this thread. I would appreciate if u provide examples. It is one thing to point out the faults of others and advice others about them. It is quite another thing to make unsubstantiated claims. I thank Opinionated for being civil toward me in our discussion. I trust same can be said about my screen character. Opinions vary! I understand u were amused not intimidated by the any stretch of the imagination even though some thought of u as a victim in need of uncalled support. This is just a forum on a screen. U understood it as such. **** tipping my hat off to Opinionated **** Hugz n peace

Bashi, instead of looking at hibo's q to mean that a man who sees a strong woman runs literally, u gotta read btw the lines. It means that, many men see a woman with intellect who challenges the status quo as a threat to their ideal way of thinking (someone clearly demonmstrated hibo's point) No Jewel I didn't look it that way. You thought I did. Hibo's point is well-taken. I just don't agree with the "...many men see a woman with intellect who challenges the status quo as a threat to their ideal way of thinking" line. I think it is the other way around. Many Somali men do respect that kind of women. Thier dream is to have one with these attributes as their wife. Some of them got lucky and went home with qallanjo. Some, in the selection process, got overlooked. Some find these qualities attractive but find the overall package unacceptable (looks, cambative, arrogant) to their taste and exercized their perogative to move on to find someone else more appealing to their liking. What I don't understand is y'all generalizing the whole thing and making it as balck and white. There are more than that to it. Is there a room for preferences?

Nur, I like your approach very much. I for one hold back my refutation and read along with other nomads this imaginery dialogue you and Bashir are having. I trust you will touch all the basis with him.

I shall refute Bashir's thesis at once Insha'Allah when I come back this Monday.

Waar Baashi anaa kuu garaabaayo oo dee waan arkaa in forumkale lagaa waaleey.Arrinkaagu waa ala aboow ka yar iga qabo oo ka weyne igu soo daa.Bal markaad xaggaa iyo Islamic threads ka soo fara xaladid baan wax kaa qori doonaa Dagaal gondahaagu ka dhashaa yaa igu dhacday. Allow maxaa iga qabsaday. Maxaad tirsiga dadka musawirka ka muuqda faraha ugu daalin iyo calamaa sheeda ka muuqdadu tari mar hadii Qaacidkiinii la baacsadey

Baashi: Would love to see you do that, prove me wrong I mean but u should be aiming for Abu Dhabi not Mpls Abu Dabi? Too expensive...altruism has its price cap Why don't we all listen carefully what Underdog has been saying? He is making an important point. I think he is from the school of hard-knocks. The same school from which I and countless nomads graduated and earned our high-priced diploma. If I'm not mistaken the point is: the majority of nomads don't get intimidated by the lady's sheer intellect, her credentials, or for that matter her personal strength. Dating, shukaansi, akhris or hasaawe is a mutual social activity undertaken by two consenting adults. It is a selective and discriminatory process. In this case we should look the both sides of the coin - to be fair to our hommies tried here in absentia Hibo the ones that u met and passed on ur judgement as a bunch of sissy boys easily intimidated by ur stature and strength might have other reason to right u off as a potential mate. Is there any chance that might be the case?

Originally posted by Gediid: Anigu kaftan yaqaan baan ahey so Guraad bal tan iga jawaab saaxiib....Is L.A (Las Anod)that lil city with laba sakadood oo iska soo jedaa on the Mogadisho-Hargeysa highway.I heard it was a great stop known for its hilib.Madama ee badhatamaha ku jirto ,I'm sure meesha loo bado uun baa leysugu biyo shuban.Either way it will be follower:D Any chance you might consider changing your nick to the one I mentioned in my last post? Waa tahay Gediid bal aan aragno ilaa xadka kaftan-dhablahu inalla tago. That might have been the case but things have changed lately. My guess is LA is not the same city it used to be before the civil war. It got alot bigger, it has attracted the investment of its diaspora natives and now is power house known for its consistent rejection of Hargiesa pandering efforts. Waa run oo Hargiesa, Booso, iyo Mogadishu mid uun baa la raaci. LA kaliya raaciyo noqon meyso ee Burco, Berbera, iyo gidi magaalooyinka Soomaaliyeed baa raaciyo wada noqon doona hadii Alla idmo. Oops! I included Booso hehee it must have skipped your memory to include your distorted prediction. Hadii Hargeisa ay noqoto mid gaar u taagan alleylehe inaad ogtahey inaan LA raaciyo u noqoneynin ee malaha waad is khaafineysaa. Mee AYOUB-SHEIKH bal inuu ku dhaamo

Libaax thanks sxb. It is all good. *** Smiled at the last posts…considered advices posted…and then paused and did some reflection in silence…. smiling again and declining their heartfelt advice but acknowledges and sympathizes their noble intentions.*** Another reminder: two opinionated and consenting adults having discussion (in Op.’ words: amusing one) in a forum should be allowed to continue their discussion. Again the points of contention are neither intellect nor one’s piety nor are we doing any preaching to enlighten her – at least from my part. I just want to understand few things and hopefully it will benefit all of us in the long run as far as our foruming here is concerned. Opinionated, For the sake of understanding let me recap where we at: We successfully refuted the allegations, and they were many, and to mention few character assassination, dictating how you live your life, and poking our noses of how you practice your deen. Now we can safely say that is not the case. I assume we agreed that posting comments in a public forum warrants responses from colleagues with whom you are having discussion. You now raised another complaint that is targeting post directed to you from the exclusion of all others. This can’t be rectified because selective response is inherent to the nature of foruming. We choose whom we want to engage and what topic and thread we want to post our pieces. I chose you because you are one of kind of character. Back to the issue. Mahram is the topic but the issue drifted to bigger and more important questions: Do we expect from Muslims to question the relevance of, dismiss or disagree an Islamic directive not from out of ignorance nor in an effort to advance their knowledge nor in search of clarification but supposedly under the influence of strong opinions? I for one don’t and to be honest I’m astonished to find one among us. I’ve seen, belief me, many many non-practicing Muslims. This is a different I must tell you. So far my observation is you fit this strange description. ‘Disagreement’ and ‘questioning’ are two completely different animals linguistically but they are same when it comes to the article of faith or religious directives. Reason being the object of these two verbs is the religion on itself - disagreeing the dictates of the religion or questioning the wisdom behind it. As a confident believer of the truth of my faith I don’t distinguish their difference once I notice their meaning, which is basically a rejection. Whether you convey that in a nice way is no concern to me. What concerns me the most is the fact that you are disrupting for those who want to share Islamic knowledge - the only contribution you managed to add to the mahram question is just that disruption. If you have strong opinions and want to post your take on the matter at hand is fine. Let’s discuss it and put them on the hot seat. Do we as online nomads have a vested interest to see questions concerning our religion being answered to the satisfaction of the enquirer? Absolutely! For those of us who lack the knowledge of providing the answers themselves are better off to direct the enquirer to someone or website that can give enquirer answers one is seeking. Another way to help is to stop the distracters like Opinionated from disrupting the Islamic knowledge to be shared. For that reason I have targeted you first to understand where you are coming from and later to expose you. Oh! Have you been a moving target! The disruptive nomads who tried to shut our minds were nuisance to this effort.

he said somali women are strong, value their culture and religion and can deal with just about everything. they care about their families and those around them and often Juggle with work studies and house work. I knew he meant it since i've known him for a number of years. i also asked a friend of mine what he thought about somali women in the western world he said you would think they are arrogant and easly offended when you meet them for the first time but once you get to know them and learn to avoid sensitive subjects you would treasure every moment you spend with them. i thought that was sweet. That's just awesome. It is true characterization of the ones I met. Granted not all of them fit that description but it is safe to say the majority are like that. Hibo, qallanjo u r right there r timid, wimpy Somali men out there. It is unfortunate u keep meeting them at every corner u tend to socialize . But it is fair to say that they are a minority - sort of exception than the rule. Let me assure u that most nomads I know who r looking wants the best mate. If u ask them what they consider 'best', the answers u got varies. But they all have one thing in common: religion and education. Lack of self confidence, timidity, and low self-steem are triats that trascends ethnicity, race, and nationalities. When and if I come back to Mnpls I will try to prove u wrong

Originally posted by Opinionated: Thats what I think of the issue that was being discussed. Now, did I make negative remarks to OTHER nomads? Nope. Did I question their entire faith outside this issue? Nope. Did I make references to their Nicknames? Nope. I don't see why they should. Now whether you take my stance on the issue as negative or positive is your perogative. This is a forum. See where I am coming from? You might not like my reasons but I did not cuss people out! Oh well thought. This is getting all too redundant for my taste anyway. peace Yes u posted your take on the issue. No u didn't make any references. No u didn't make any negative remarks to other nomads. But I afraid u did question their entire faith by simply questioning this particular issue. I must inform u that Islamic creed formula (Tawhid) dictates to believe and acted upon each and everything that prophet brought to us with no exceptions. Mistakes are expected as we are humans but attonement should follow when corrected or reminded - the message says. Now, if this is a forum and you take the liberty to question others'(including me) faith, why would u feel violated if I or others take the liberty to point out some inconsistencies from ur thought process. It seems to me that u are so spoiled by the reluctance of SOL nomads and their tendency to look the other way or turn their other cheek for some more slaps from u. By all means express your thoughts, post under the influence of strong opinions, be inquisitive but for crying out loud don't u shed baby tears when other nomads express their thought in response to urs or post under their own dose of the same influence of strong opinions. Take a leave if u must or whenever it gets too redundant for ur taste but do remember plz what is good for the gooze is also good for the gander. This should be the lesson we all take from this exchange. Gimme hug now and forgive me cuz u know I'm a friend and admirer of ur nonsensical posts except when it questions something I hold dear - my faith.

Humans are different from animals for they are endowed the faculty of knowledge. Rape is an act condemned by all men at all time - throughout history -present and past. This article doesn’t do justice to the position of Islam on Rape for it gives currency to the notion that depicts men and women as lions and lamps in the same fence. Rational of this notion is that if we are to prevent lamps to be eaten by the lions we ought to separate from each other or have the lamps put straight metal jacket on. It puts the burden on the lamps always. No! Rape is a societal problem as stealing, slander, and murder are. It is a crime. There are coherent laws put in place to deter and punish the transgressors and to protect the victims. While the criminals bear the full weight of the law, the members of the society are expected to be prudent. To be sure, your assets are safe from criminals for instance, it is prudent to hide it or secure it. In other words, don’t neglect your assets. Not that negligence would excuse thieves but you are better off if u take the neseccary precautions to protect it. The same analogy can be made about denying opportunity to perverts. Not they are weak or their acts are excusable but their existence is good enough to be vigilant. To be safe u might not want to hang out with a drunker after hours. We all have compelling interest to look after our safety.

When do pple cease to project their negative outlook to others. I and Op., are two mature opinionated nomads and we are chatting here and will continue to do so untill one of us feel otherwise. I think we are making progress in understanding each other. I know I do. Originally posted by Opinionated: I'm glad you mentioned respect. And where in this thread did I disrespect S.O.L.ers without instigation? Now, let see! Calling the mahram 'idea' a bunch of crock is not a respectfull thing to do or is it?. Equating women who embrace mahram as an obligation of their faith to a children in need of protection and 'chaporoning' is a form of riducling and belittling everything that Islamic directive stands for. What u practice is your perogative and u know what u do and practice is not an issue here. You don't have a license to libel - that's all. is demanding the respect of my personal values too much to ask? :rolleyes: NO, it is not my darling; and I'm willing to oblige ur wish. Opinions of what others practice is another issue, however. Did I dissrespect u or ur personal values in any way or form? cuz if I did I'm nomad enough to retract it and extend my sincere apology.

Yes and I'm top of it. What better thing is there than to expose someone who make habit to riducle Islam. Demanding respect of other nomads' 'sacred values' is not too much to ask. I'm working...making bundle and the some time I'm enjoying the company of all of u.

Originally posted by Opinionated: Baashi, What part of "I don't practice the mahram concept" do you not understand? I don't have to tell you what 4 scholars I follow, as there are many scholars that existed after the 4. Now, I would like to see you ask ALL the people that disagreed along with me asked the exact same question. **shaking my head** I stand corrected. "I don't practice it" and "I don't agree with the 'idea' " are 2 different statements. Would u help me identify these people u are refering to...I will let the forces of 'preventing vice and enforcing virtue' do their job On a serious note though don't belittle or badmouth our religion as the Lion-teaser pointed out. Whether u practice it or not is little concern to me.

Good one MMA. For those who have difficulty in understanding written Somali, this is satirical piece. The author weighs on several issues: language barrier (old folks), clash of cultures, humaliation faced by poor refugees, and the life in the west. A lot of humor, true and sad accounts of Somalis in the west. I commend the writter how he managed to put this misery in a lighter note. More power to Samatar Sooyaan.

“Minds are like parachutes” wise sage once said “ They only function when they are open.” Some nomads are resisting to do just that - open our minds. No character assassination is engaged here and no one is telling anyone what to do or how he or she should behave or in that matter practice his/her religion. We are having discussion and it seems the discussion took a turn of its own. A sister came to this site and asked simple question. I personally prefer to direct my inquiries to those who are best equipped to answer them - Ulama u Deen. Nevertheless, she posted her question. Some made the effort to provide answers to the sister. Opinionated disagrees the Mahram “idea” in general and her contribution was only negative name-calling. She invokes the existence of four Islamic jurisprudence schools and how that is relevant to this (If one disagree the whole idea, variations of that idea are irrelevant) is something I’m very interested in; considering she hasn’t answered this: Which Islamic scholar does Opinionated agree with on the question of the Mahram? and what is his position on this question? Those who wanted to get clarification to this seemingly strange position has been accused of many crimes: curtailing freedom of expression, character assassination, dictating how others live thier lifes, questioning what others practice, and the last but not least arrogance, pomposity, and self-righteousness. CLOSE this topic some commanded the admin because they supposedly disgusted where things are heading. I personally would like to see Opinionated answer these questions without crying wolf because no one is out to destroy her. What is this talk of fairness that’s being thrown into this discussion anyway? Yes, others have posted different interpretation of the Mahram and provided sources.

Originally posted by SmithNwestern: Bashi, thanks for the post its a fair analysis of the place. But do not confuse Somaliland/Puntland dispute with that of Galkacyu, Galkacyu North and south I am not sxb.

The real problem lies border demarcation. Here are the facts: 1. The autonomous provincial government of Puntland borders are based on clan kinship. The argument is the Somali state (the government and its institutions) collapsed and it is broken in its constitutient clans. Puntland's authority and its existence is based on the consent of the affiliated clans who inhabit this area. Its existence will serve as a building block in future united Somali state. 2. The breakaway republic of Somaliland borders are based on the British Somaliland colonial map. The argument is the Somali state (The State and the country) collapsed and one region of the founding partners has a fully functioning government. The authority there have declared independence based on two things a) The legality of the 'Act of the Union' is questionable. b) The absence of represented government for the Somalia that existed prior 1991. The irony is the articulation of past grievences falls on the Col. Riyale shoulders. The border issue is a problematic because the alleged borders of the two entities overlap. The political atmospher doesn't look good either. Col. Riyale is walking on a knife edge and he is really in a tight rope. At issue is which Somaliland is he seeking recognition for. Former British colony or the region inhabited by tribes who give alliegence to Hargiesa? He managed to dodge that question before this week but not anymore, it appears. Col. Yusuf wished to let some steam out of Puntland by giving loyal tribes piece of the action: governers, mayors, and provinces. His timing is as bad as his move. He is biting more than he can digest because Puntland is in dire economic situation. War from the Northern front is last thing he wants to see. And the frienship from the South of Galkacyo is questionable and vulnerable for incitement by the some of Mogadishu bosses. Clan politics continues. Wadeeca Alla!

Is a buncha crock all thats worrying you and the rest? No. But heads turn when one disagrees performing salat five times every day or the need for hijab or in this case mahram. Am all for freedom of expression, having inquisitive mind, having different views, and what not. But treating Islamic directive as any other opinion...that's when I can't help but having few questions and opinions of my own. 'cause it seems to me, they all came to the same conclusion anyway. And conclusion is? PS. Am I next on da hit list? No darling. Neither u nor Opinionated is on it cuz there is no hit list. This list is all made up in ur head. Y’all perceived this discussion that way and as they say perception is not necessarily a reality. Lemme know 'cause I'll get ma ammunition and weapons of mass destrustion ready No need for ammunition/WMD...ur penetrating logic alone will do the job if need be...at the moment there is no need for the ‘shock and awe’ show that u have in mind!

Originally posted by Athena: Kheyr :rolleyes: , If you refer to an Islamic ruling as a buncha crock or say it no longer applies = same thing. Not quite! Rejecting Islamic ruling on the basis of deductive reasoning != Intrepretation of the directive by citing Prophets' saying through Bukhari and acts of Sahabah. One (Opinionated) is belittling and badmouthing Islamic injuction. The other (Rahmah, Qori Xabaalan, and Bulo) is delineating the fine prints of the same legal imjuction by citing primary sources - Khalif Omar, Al-Bukhari and among others. PS: != means not equal

How's ur day folks? Great I hope. I have a taste for wisdom and this week I will like to share this piece full of wisdom with u. Be cheerfull! ---------------------------------------------- Desiderata Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble, it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and every- where life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the council of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive him to be. And whatever your labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.