Madeha Lashin Scholarship Award
2009 Essay Winner
2009 Essay Topic
“By the time, Verily man is in loss, Except such as have faith, and do righteous deeds, and join together in the mutual enjoining of truth and of patience and constancy.”
(Surat Al-Asr, 103: 1-3)
A human being’s life will only show profit if he has faith, leads a good life, and contributes to social welfare by directing and encouraging other people on the path of truth and constancy. (Yusuf Ali Commentary on Surat Al-Asr).
In January, 2009 the election of President Barack Obama made history. As the son of a European American mother and an African father of Muslim ancestry, he gives inspiration and hope to many young Americans Muslims. A central theme in many of his speeches has been the connection between faith and action. President Obama calls on all Americans to examine their values to bring positive change to their own lives, their communities, and humanity. President Barack Obama’s campaign included the slogan, “Change you can Believe in.” Although President and Mrs. Obama came from modest means, they were able to aim high in their personal lives while serving as community organizers for many years.
After examining President Obama’s inaugural address, please write an essay on one aspect of change that President Obama mentioned. President Obama will be in office for four years. What can you, as an American Muslim youth, contribute to this aspect of change during these years? Some examples include the current economic situation, environment, community service, and negative image of Muslims.
Make sure to include answers to the following questions:
- Why did you choose to write about this aspect? Describe why it is important to the society at large and why it is important to you personally. (one page)
- If this aspect of society has some base in Islam, quote hadith/ ayat that are related to it. Explain how this aspect was established in Islamic society. (one page)
- What can you do, personally, to make the first steps toward this change? This change can happen in one of the communities to which you belong (school, Masjid, extended family, Boy Scouts/ Girl Scouts, sports teams) (2-3 pages)
- The president has selected several experienced advisors to help him approach serious statewide, national and global issues. Who would you seek advice from and work with to achieve success in your goal? (one page)
URL for 2009 Inaugural Address by President Barack Obama (speech and text)
Background Information
To honor Sister Madeha Lashin for her many tireless years of selfless service to our school, the GIS Board has created The Madeha Lashin Scholarship Award (MLSA). Sr. Madeha is one of the early pioneers who taught at GIS from the first year and helped to build its foundation. She was then entrusted by our community to serve as Principal, where she devoted many years of her life to strive for her dream of making GIS among the highest ranks of Islamic schools in North America. May Allah Taala reward her for the many generous years she dedicated in serving our community.