[Glenda]

We've been friends in the UK with a Muslim family for five years and I would (somewhat hesitantly) agree with Adventurer's opinion to some degree based on what we have learned from this one family.

To the world our friends seemed Westernised. Western clothing, no hajibs, no obvious religious dedication - we even exchanged Christmas presents. The only difference seems to be the absence of pork and alcohol in their diet and the fathers insistance that his daughters, now they are early teens, do not expose their bare legs. We decided to go into business with them, had meals and barbeques with them, their kids played with ours, shared problems ... all the things friends do.

What we have learnt is that most Muslims know of many other Muslims in Britain, and they know who the extremists are, at best from rumours only. They consider Britain their home but would ideally like it to be more Muslim, and trust it will be in time, with good 'marketing' of their religion. A lot of Muslims are shocked by the violence and murder (as we are) but also because it undermines their influence in society. However, some do get a buzz from the thought of a 'holy war' speeding the spread of the Islamic word.

In some ways we emphasised with our friends as we wanted our children to grow up in a better society, as they do. We've supported them and they have done much to help us. Their religion has not been an issue in our friendship, although some comments made by them about their religious outlook on life have left us not sure on how to reply. It was at times like this that we became acutely aware of the bond they had with millions of Muslims all over the world. Looking at the larger picture, though, I can understand why a lot of people feel there seems to be an underlying threat with Muslims you do not get with Hindus or Buddhists, etc.

(Not much input there about Muslims in NZ other than if I was an employer, I would not hesitate to employ a Muslim who was suitable for a job.)

:-/