Dear Editor:

In the months before the conventions, we hear abrasive thunderous, hateful cries from some presidential candidates; we hear coarse and strident language condemning foreigners, immigrants and refugees with sometimes as much venom as a terrorist killer might display. Driven by fear and distrust, many Americans have made hard-line attacks in language that implies that Islam is a violent faith. Therefore, Muslims must be violent and too dangerous to have in our midst. This hostile and incendiary language is often aimed at people who are different from us. That response, though humanly understandable, is unacceptable, unfounded and false. That behavior is at the root of racism, sexism, ageism ... civil conversation on the subject — especially as it relates to Muslim immigrants — requires more solid and truthful information.

To that end, it is helpful to remember that there are three Abrahamic, monotheistic faiths (belief in God): Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Although these three faiths are diverse in the expression of their faith, and in the way in which they do their worshiping, they are more alike than they are different. All three faiths are peaceful and non-violent.

Sadly, there are extremist elements throughout the history of these God-centered faiths as there are in most faiths. The violent members of any faith do not represent the whole faith. Christians, Jews and Muslims worship one compassionate, merciful God who reveals himself in the early prophets — Abraham, Moses and Jesus.

Clearly, we are not at war with Muslims. We are, however, reacting to the radical elements and to extremists among them.

It is helpful to look at the core beliefs of Islam, found in their Bible, the Koran. There, the prophetic words of Muhammad define and express Muslim understanding of God, the source of mercy and justice, compassion and fairness. The oppression of anyone is never allowed. To violate the rights of any non-Muslim is a grave injustice.

Remember Peter, Paul and Mary singing "When will be ever learn, when will we e-ver learn?" In 2016, those words are not about Vietnam. But they do speak to the unspeakable carnage, pain and suffering of those caught in the many wars in our world now.

Just maybe we can and will learn how to treat people kindly who are different from us.

Rev. Bobsy Dudley-Thompson

Edgecomb