Previous Themes
2007: “Scattered Images: Reflecting Faith, Reclaiming Our Future“
Today, more so than ever before, Muslims and Islam are in the public eye, and people are constantly being bombarded with a thousand different images regarding who Muslims are and what they represent. These scattered images, awkwardly taped together, create a convoluted and inaccurate reflection of our faith. How do we, as youth, create a better image of Islam that aids us in reclaiming our future as an Ummah?
Whether people are getting their information from the media, from their friends and family, or from the internet, the responsibility of disseminating accurate and representative information lies solely on the Muslims’ shoulders. The image of a group is the sole responsibility of its members: whether Muslim, Christian, Jew, Hindu…etc
However, even if we are to say all the right things, our actions have a tendency to speak louder than our words, and beyond that, the very way we present ourselves also has a huge impact on how we are perceived. A realization of this fact can potentially make a person very paranoid to always act right in front of the critical eyes of others. Should we always concentrate on our outer images? How do those, not of our faith, see us as Muslims? Should we even care? The answers to these pertinent questions lie within the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is our perfect example for guidance on how exactly to be honorable people. He was blessed with a handsome physique and a beautiful scent, always dressing nicely, but remaining humble at the same time in his refrain from the extravagant. Rarely was he ever seen without a smile on his face. He always carried with him the utmost respect for his fellow comrade in the human race, whether they were followers of his message or not. He was ever-willing to help the immediate need of his neighbor or relative. His message was not spread by the sword but was spread by example. The conclusion for a Muslim, thus, seems fitting. When a Muslim acts in a manner that is favorable to Allah (SWT), such actions also make him/her eligible to be seen favorably and honorably by others.
Therefore, in the face of such divergent and scattered images telling others who a Muslim really is, the responsible Muslim takes the higher route towards promoting understanding: by always reflecting the values and teachings of the faith that he/she professes, the Muslim would be reclaiming a future filled with the hope of a world where principles such as peace, tolerance, love, and respect reign free, and where everyone is free to worship their Lord.
However, some critical questions remain: Should Muslims concern themselves with how they are perceived, or should Muslims solely concern themselves with their image before God, or is there a middle path between these two choices? In this age of fashion and glamour, what image do we really want to portray of ourselves and how do we go about portraying a positive image of Islam?
Remember, this theme will pervade all of the MIST competitions and workshops at both the regional and national levels. Be creative when reflecting upon and applying the theme because projects and submissions with the most creativity and insight will receive the highest points. If you have any questions regarding this theme or anything else MIST-related, please do not hesitate to contact us!
2006: “Character: Our Diamond in the Rough”
Definition:
“Diamond in the Rough” (n): Someone or something with potential or talent but lacking training or polish. This phrase refers to the fact that diamonds found in nature are rough and uneven. They must be cut and polished to bring out their true beauty.
Explanation:
Just like those diamonds found in nature that are rough and uneven, our character is also rough and uneven and in need of polishing to truly shine. In order to be successful contributors to our society, community, high schools, and homes, we all need to strive to reach our highest potential as humans. Hence, the MIST 2006 theme concentrates on striving to perfect our character.
There are many different aspects of character, including faith, mercy, patience, forbearance, courage, sincerity, modesty, honesty, and many other traits. Concentrating on our character and its perfection, using the traits above as guidance, think about what it means to be a human being in the 21st Century.What makes good character? If Character is a recipe, what are the ingredients? Which aspect is your character missing? How can you improve your own character to truly shine? How can reflecting upon and internalizing the 99 Attributes of God impact our character? What can you learn from
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and other great people from the past and present that will help you in your struggle to perfect your character?
If we were more patient, how would our world change? If we were more merciful, how would our society change? If we were more respectful, would our parents suffer so much when raising us? Be creative when reflecting upon and applying this theme. Projects and submissions with the most creative thought put into them receive high points, so make
sure you really examine and think about this theme. If you have any questions, please contact us!
Additional Reading:
Ethical Standard of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)
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