In a recent edition of The Times two ladies expressed their fear of Muslim immigrants and Sharia Law. I wonder if either one is aware of the fact that Muslims have lived in this country since its founding and there has never been an attempt to force Sharia law on other citizens.

Followers of Islam have been an integral part of our societies. They are our doctors, firemen, teachers, lawyers, etc. and the ones I know love this country, its laws and religious freedoms very much!

If we’re to fear any group we should fear the many extreme, conservative, white, Christian, heavily armed, militant, anti-government groups –our home-grown terrorists — the ones who protest in front of mosques and feel they must arm themselves against their own government.

After all, it wasn’t a Muslim who bombed the building in Oklahoma City, killed the children in Columbine, shot the folks in Aurora, shot the kids in Sandy Hook, shot the parishioners as they prayed in their church in Charleston, shot the students at Umpqua College, and on and on. It was always a young, white male — probably Christian —with access to a gun.

When Christians fear and hate all Muslims based on select verses from the Quran they make a big mistake. The Bible and the Quran both contain verses that condone killing non-believers, but you will also find admonitions against killing in both books.

All religions say they believe in the Golden Rule. Instead of fearing each other, what if we all took the radical step of actually living by this rule and reaching out in friendship?

Attend an interfaith service and get to know some Muslims. Ask questions. They’re as concerned about terrorism as we are. They’ve been unfairly labeled and harassed because of the actions of terrorists. Perhaps we can find our common humanity and peace!