Love for all, hatred for none

Re: “‘One of New Zealand’s darkest days,’ ” March 16.

Terrorism has no regard for mankind. It does not care for religion, race or culture. It lacks respect for humanity in general.

On this occasion, when 49 individuals of Muslim faith have been murdered in Christchurch, New Zealand, I have received many messages of support and love. I thank all well-wishers from bottom of my heart.

Though, I must add that it is insufficient to stand in solidarity only when such massacres have taken place. It is our obligation to grow in respect and tolerance. It is important to shut down bigotry and hate speech when it’s taking hold. If we let even a small amount of hatred grow inside our communities, it spirals into something much bigger one day, eventually affecting the lives of many. Therefore, we must not wait for tragedies to bring us together; rather, stand beside each other at all times.

At this time, the words of World Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Community are very relevant. His Holiness says: “This tragic event should serve as a lesson and warning to other countries of the developed world that we must join together to tackle all forms of racial, ethnic and religious hatred with wisdom and with a firm hand.”

I end with a simple message for humanity: Love for all, hatred for none. Imam Tariq Azeem Missionary Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Delta