Honorable Mention - Mustafa Ahmed

Once upon a time, there lived an 8-year-old girl named Sarah. Sarah was a very good Muslim who prayed each of her 5 prayers. She made dua to Allah every day and was kind to everybody she met. She had a friend from school named Mary. Mary was non-Muslim. On the Friday before the last day of school, Sarah and Mary were at recess, sitting on a bench. "Sorry I can't come to your house tomorrow," says Sarah.

They had planned to have a sleepover that next day. However, at sunset after Maghrib yesterday, Sarah's parents announced that on Sunday, they would be traveling to Makkah to see the Kaabah for a week. One of the Five Pillars of Islam requires every Muslim who can do so to perform the Hajj at least once in their lifetime. Sarah was delighted when she discovered this news, but then remembered that she was supposed to have a sleepover with Mary that same day they were leaving.

Still sitting on the bench, Mary asks, "I know that you have to go, but I want you to stay. And why do you believe in Islam? Why is it important?" Sarah was astounded after hearing this, but she comprehended that Mary was non-Muslim, and took this as a chance to spread the word of Islam. "Muslims believe that all the world should have harmony. We believe in our holy book the Quran, and that there is only one lord, Allah SWT. We also believe that the last prophet, or messenger, is Prophet Muhammad SAW," replies Sarah.

"Why do you believe in Islam over all other religions?" asks Mary. "Islam believes that our lord, Allah SWT is the source of peace. The Quran provides a pure and clear vision of Allah SWT. The Quran shows the reasons why Islam should be followed and shows Allah SWT's mercy and forgiveness." replies Sarah. "Why do you have to go to leave?" asks Mary. " I am going to the holy city of Makkah to see the Kaaba. A Muslim must visit the Kabba at least once during their lifetime if possible. My family has finally saved enough money to go to Makkah," replies Sarah. "Sarah, I have one more question. What are your lord's requirements? What does he reward Muslims with?" asks Mary. "Allah SWT's expectations for us are to pray salah five times a day, which are at different times and are each performed daily. He also expects us to make dua, to be kind to others, go to mosques, read the Quran, and try to spread the word of Allah SWT," replies Sarah. "I did not realize how great Islam was. I guess I now realize how important it is for you to go to Makkah," says Mary. 

Later, Mary finds more about Islam and its teachings. She then realizes Islam is the true religion. Mary later becomes a peaceful Muslim. Sarah was glad to have been open and honest about her religion with her friend.