"National Burn a Quran Day"

A church in Florida has decided to commemorate September 11, the date of the horrific attacks on the World Trade Center, by organizing "National Burn a Quran Day." The pastor, Rev. Terry Jones, of the church has spoken publicly about his desires claiming this sends a message to extremists in the Muslim community. Despite warnings from the top general in Afghanistan about the risks this potentially poses to our deployed troops, the Rev. Terry Jones has remained firm in his plan to engage in the burning of the Quran, which is Islam's holy book. What message is Rev. Terry Jones and his church really sending with the "National Burn a Quran Day?"

The United States has been attempting to repair its worldwide image. With wars in two dominantly Muslim countries, sensitivity to Islam is very important. The United States needs to express its acceptance of the peaceful religion of Islam the majority of these citizens in the war torn countries embrace. Although Rev. Terry Jones has stated his desire to "stand-up" to Muslim extremists, he is actually offending all Muslims.

Supporters of "The National Burn a Quran Day" are using past American flag and Bible burnings to combat criticism of their proposed actions. Although its true that these burnings have taken place, it shouldn't stand as a reason to engage in more burning of sacred items. The majority of Muslims would oppose burning of the bible, and just because one group of people engage in hurtful and offensive behavior behavior doesn't make it right for another group to engage in the same behavior.

General Petraeus, the top general in Afghanistan, has stated that "The National Burn a Quran Day" would endanger the lives of American troops fighting abroad and work to undo much of the progress that has been completed in the country. The pastor, Rev. Terry Jones, has acknowledged the general's statement, but Rev. Terry Jones plans to forge ahead with "National Burn a Quran Day." It appears that the lives of American service members are less important to Rev. Terry Jones and his church members than their misguided message.

"National Burn a Quran Day" is sending a terrible message to the rest of the world about the United States and Christians. Although Rev. Terry Jones and his church have the right to commit this behavior, it is not the correct choice. Lives of our troops overseas are not worth the attempt to prove a point. "National Burn a Quran Day" will not help to halt Muslim extremism, and "National Burn a Quran Day" could give more motivation to terrorists. "National Burn a Quran Day" should not take place.