Alam Zawar
32-A Sarwar Shaheed Rd, Icchra
Lahore, Punjab
Pakistan
5th May 2007
Dear Alam,
As Salam Au Alaykum my brother. If god wills, this letter will find you in good health. It’s been so long since we talked. You’ve been in Lahore for at least a year and a half now, and I hope you still remember the home you have in Swat. I know that you were angry with me when you left, but I hope that god has given you the strength to forgive.
I am writing this letter with the help of Mullah Ibrahim, who has become my mentor over the past months. He has instructed me to find peace with all those I have wronged. I’m sure that Mina has told you that I left our home and spent the last winter in Matiltan. Here, Mullah Ibrahim has opened a new madrasa that is teaching children our age the true word of god and the prophet (peace be upon him). I’m here with many children from the nearby villages and farms. We spend the day in classes and then help with chores afterwards.
Every evening after maghrib prayer, I bring tea and snacks to the main room. Here, Mullah Ibrahim and other enlightened people sit together and listen to a radio show hosted by Mullah Fazlullah. He is a wise man with some ideas on how to improve the state of our country and bring us closer to god. If possible, I recommend that you find a way to listen to his broadcasts and share them with your friends.
Once again, I hope you are in good health.
Jamal.
P.S. Alam, I am so sorry that you had to go to Lahore because of me. I hope you come back soon! I don't think Abu is angry at you anymore. He's angry at me now. Did Mina tell you anything? He was so mad when I left. I asked him if I can spend the winter at the madrasa, but Abu hates Mullah Ibrahim. He yelled at me and beat me with his stick. I ran out of the house and couldn't even take any clothes like you did. It's okay. Like the Mullah says, god sees all.
