When I say I am a Muslim

When I say I am a Muslim,
I'm not shouting: "Down with Christians and Jews"
I am whispering: "I seek peace"
and Islam is the path that I choose.

When I say I am a Muslim,
I speak of this with pride.
And confess that sometimes I stumble,
and need Allah to be my guide.

When I say I am a Muslim,
I know this makes me strong.
And in those times when I am weak,
I pray to Allah for strength to carry on.

When I say I am a Muslim,
I'm not boasting of success.
I'm acknowledging that Allah has rescued me,
and I cannot ever repay the debt.

When I say I am a Muslim,
I'm not claiming to be perfect.
My flaws are indeed visible,
but Allah forgives because his followers are worth it.

When I say I am a Muslim,
it does not mean I will never feel pain.
I still have my share of heartaches,
which is why I invoke Allah's name.

When I say I am a Muslim,
I do not wish to judge.
I have no such authority
My duty is to submit to Allah's all-encompassing love.