A Battle of Values

Today Tony Blair said, "Whatever the outward manifestation at any one time -- in Lebanon, in Gaza, in Iraq, and add to that in Afghanistan, in Kashmir, in a host of other nations, including now some in Africa -- this everywhere is a global fight about global values.

"It's about modernization within Islam and out of it. It's about whether our value system can be shown to be sufficiently robust, true, principled and appealing that it beats theirs."

According to Blair, the Muslims the West is fighting base their actions "on a presumed sense of grievance that can motivate people to divide against each other. Our answer has to be a set of values strong enough to unite people with each other.

"And this is not just about security or military tactics -- it is about hearts and minds."

Hearts and minds. Where have we heard that before?

If I could address Mr. Blair, I would tell him about my own experience. Growing up in a typical American family. Attending church and Sunday School every week. Enrolling in a seminary with the intention of becoming a minister. Becoming disillusioned with the church, for a variety of reasons. Studying Islam, along with several other religions. Converting to Islam after a hot and sleepless night of prayer and meditation. Learning to submit to my Creator.

Along with thousands of other converts who grew up with Western values, I could clarify the difference to Mr. Blair. I think he would be surprised, if he was actually willing to listen.

Tomorrow I'll talk about the values--the ones I grew up with, and the ones I follow now as a Muslim. The similarities and the differences.

Tony Blair and his friends make many assumptions about Muslims and Islam. But they have no experience. All they do is talk.