Think about food.

Many of us know what’s good and what’s not, but there are still times we just “can’t help” having that cake, or ice cream, or hot dog.

Other people simply eat what they want. They might not even think too much about whether or not that food is good for their body.

Then there are those people who realize the relationship between what they eat and their overall health.

They research, study and even do their best to implement what they learn, with determination to take excellent care of their bodies. These are often the most successful, health-wise. They are also the fewest.

Islam has the perfect recipe for excellence. If one follows it diligently it will positively impact all aspects of the way they live, no doubt.

It encourages kindness, moderation and a real connection with our Creator. It not only fosters spiritual health, but also physical as well as social health and well being.

Almost all creatures in the universe naturally live according to their programming. They do what they are meant to do.

Take angels; they are intelligent creatures, yet they do not deviate from their purpose and nature. They obey God.

Humans on the other hand….

Well, you already know humans are nothing like angels.

Muslims are no different. We’re still human!

Some are born in a Muslim family, but never search to learn about the purpose of life, how to know God, and the difference between right and wrong according to The One who created them.

Some are like the person who wants to eat healthy, but they frequently give in to their desire for potato chips.

They know they should be good, but it’s just so hard!

Then there are the others, who are convinced and determined to live a wholesome life and fulfill their purpose.

They sincerely try very hard, but this doesn’t make even them infallible. They will flag, waiver and fall at times too.

They are more tenacious and struggle against themselves to stay on the upward path and that is what sets them apart and gets them better results.

Aside from these three, there are also the junk food companies. They deceptively use the concept of health to sell their garbage.

They use pretty pictures, nutrition facts and statistics to make people believe their food is healthy- even though its actually harmful.

Some people use Islam in the same way, they have a goal, an agenda; and they pick and choose and twist aspects of Islam to fit and promote their cause.

If someone really wants to know about Islam, they can’t get the big idea from observing Muslims. Just like you can’t get a good idea of the perfectly healthy lifestyle by observing the average American.

You have to go to the sources. The Quran most importantly, and the Sunnah, or the way of the Prophet Muhammad.

The fact that people often fail, does not invalidate the test.

And just because someone slaps a label that says “Islam” on something, doesn’t mean that’s what it really is.