The Cordoba Initative and the American Society for Muslim Advancement informed everyone in the court room that the building would house not only a mosque, but also a community center, swimming pool and recreation area where the public would be invited to join. They want to improve relations among Muslims and the West. A decision is expected to be made sometime in August.

How would you feel about this? Would you want a mosque close to Ground Zero? Would you feel this is degrading to those who gave their lives Sept. 11? The United States will never forgot those lost during that terrible day. We need to honor their deaths, their sacrifice and remember them all. However, to hold the entire Muslim community for the crimes of a group of terrorists is also wrong. Perhaps it is time to “turn the other cheek” and forge a better understanding of other religious groups.