muslim corruption- saudi arabia

I recently read about saudi arabias luxery haji train that is only for arabs- I have long been aware of how saudi was viewed as the prime 'example' of muslim leadership and how corrupt it is (extreme interpretations of the quran and so forth) and this report about the train and also the ultra expensive clock in mecca takes it to another level. Many anti islam articles list the injustices of saudi policies and laws and equate it with all muslims. I pray non muslims will know that not all muslims support saudi and they're practices. I haven't made haji yet and feel sad it is so profit based with the expensive packages- what happened to charity, particularly in association with such a beautiful and noble occasion. So many times non muslims feel muslims are not 'outraged' by particular events and that our 'voice' isn't heard but western media picks and chooses how they want to portray muslims and the 'evil muslim' imagery sells, despite many who do protest. Its hard to hear the cries of protest when its not present or allowed to be heard. Inshallah things will one day change

hijab and the law- boulder

The news story about the boulder hijabi convert has me wondering about freedom of religion- her stance is that she should be allowed to observe hijab in a police photo while boulder police feel this is too concealing. I believe that if the federal government allows hijab in passport photos then states should follow. There shouldn't be a debate over the allowance of a headcovering or attacks of the boulder hijabi because she is speaking out about it- I question why security issues center on not showing ears and neck when the face is revealed. So maybe from this story more hijabis will speak out. Of course hijabis shouldn't be in positions where they'll need police photos so there's that

New thoughts and goals

Life cutting back and no internet is trying : O  I have been finally getting around to spending my free time working on meaningful things that dont involve the TV. One is improving my deen through my many Muslim books I never had time for- I am relearning so much and have become more diligent about during wudu and my prayers more properly alhamduliliah. So inshallah I can be a good example for my son and for my own well being. I pray for God's guidance and mercy