An interesting development since 9-11 is the increased and intended visibility of Muslims. They voice it as an effort to normalize Islam in the U.S. public eye. More women wear the hijab, more participate in politics and elections, and in fact some boasts of Islam being the fastest growing religion in America (and Europe). I commend them for further embracing their rightful duties as citizens of this nation where there is still freedom of religion. I am also glad most distinguish themselves from the radicalism outside the U.S. I do wonder what the rest of the world thinks of U.S. Muslims when there are those who call the U.S. the Great Satan. One factor in the moderation of Islam in the U.S. has likely been attributed to demographics: many who come the America are more affluent and educated. I may sound quite optimistic, I want to hope they are making an honest effort to live at peace, but deep inside I remain suspicious of a religion and culture that seems so contrary to what I believe.

I cannot ignore the fact that the greatest geopolitical threat to Christians is Islam (2nd being communism). The top 10 nations persecuting Christians (by imprisonment, torture, murder, destruction of property, attacks, intimidation) are:
North Korea, Iraq, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Iran, Eritrea, China, Vietnam, Pakistan.
3 are communist nations. 7 are Muslim/dominantly Muslim.

So on the surface it appears there is a disconnect between the liberal and radical groups of Muslims. Morocco and Turkey are evidence of this. These are two nations where there is an internal struggle to keep Wahhabism at bay by separating state and religion, in the case of Turkey, or by the state directing religion and education towards moderation, in the case of Morocco.