Opportunity for Collaboration

With plans for the building of a Mosque moving forward near the WTC site, it is interesting how this is becoming a political issue, not just a religious issue or even about remembrance and tribute. For many Americans, a Mosque near the site of the 9/11 attacks symbolizes infiltration and giving ground to an unknown evil (or often the word terrorist is invoked, which really is for most people a word for an unknown enemy that is most likely Muslim). Is a Mosque really the incubator for terrorists? Is this a question of the chicken or egg? Clearly there are people in the world who want to do evil, and they will do so whether they are Muslim, Christian or agnostic. The real issue here is seizing on an opportunity to bring together two sides and let a community split by the horror and tragedy of 9/11 bring some healing to one of the most diverse and celebrated cities in the world. Diversity is what NYC is all about; a place where the world is on showcase. So, why wouldn't there be a Mosque, let alone near the WTC? Instead of attacking the idea and making it about politics and religion, let's turn this into a story of Americans joining together and building something better.