Tears, phone calls, e-mail messages, smiles, cards and flowers are how many Americans across the country have expressed their regret for harassment and threats against Pakistani Muslims as well as sympathy for the community since September 11.

Given this outpouring of support at such a critical time, it is crucial that we express our thanks and appreciation. Prophet Mohamed (peace and blessings be upon him) said that "He who does not thank people does not thank Allah" (Ahmad, Tirmidhi).

Here are a few simple ways you can say "thank you" to the good-hearted friends, neighbors, co-workers, classmates and teachers who have been supportive:

1. Say it with a card or note

While you could just pick up the phone and say a simple "Thanks", this will not make much of an impression. A thoughtful card or letter to the individual who has been supportive would be more appreciated. It could also be something they remember you by.

You don't have to write anything too long. Perhaps you can quote the above-mentioned Hadith or a relevant verse from the Quran that expresses how you feel, along with a short note thanking them for their support. Give this note in person, if possible, to make sure it reaches your friend.

2.Give a gift of literature

If you'd like to take it a step further, you could include a small gift with your note. The ideal one at this moment would be some kind of Islamic literature and maybe even a short book about Pakistan.

Many, many Americans are thirsting for knowledge about Islam, given the amount of media coverage, negative and positive, the faith of over a billion human beings, is receiving. They are also paying more attention to Pakistan which has gained world attention since the events of September 11 and the bombing of Afghanistan.

You could give an English-only copy of the Quran. Or a brief, well-written book in English introducing Islam. You can check out this page for more ideas. You could also buy a book about some aspect of Pakistan that might interest them.

3. Invite them out for coffee or a meal at your home

Food is a great way to bring people together. Eating together allows defenses and barriers to come down and helps people relate better to each other.

Go out for a meal with an acquaintance or co-worker who has expressed sympathy and support or invite them over to your place for a meal. Make the menu more American than Pakistani, unless you know the person enjoys trying new kinds of food. Go easy on the spices.

4. Put an ad in the newspaper or write a letter to the editor

This is more of a general thank you gesture, for thanking a larger number of people. If, for instance, your co-workers have been especially cooperative, write a letter to the editor for publication in your local newspaper about how much you appreciated their kindness and sympathy. Send the same letter to your company's newsletter or as a memo to everybody at the office.

On a larger scale, if you and a number of Pak-Americans can pitch in and collect enough funds, buy ad space in the local newspaper and write a note thanking the local community for their kindness to the Pak-American community of your town or city during this time.

If that's too much, then you can simply put a thank you notice in the announcements section of the newspaper.

5. Just say it

The least you can do is acknowledge the support with a phone call or in the midst of a conversation with your colleague, classmate or friend. The important thing is to acknowledge the goodness, especially in the face of the hatred, anger and racism that have been dominating emotions for a number of Americans who have lashed out against Pak-Americans since September 11.

Date/Time Last Modified: 6/17/2002 3:37:21 PM

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