"Be a community that calls for what is good, urges what is right, and forbids what is wrong: those who do this are the successful ones" (Quran 3:104).

Abu Saeed al-Khudri (may God be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of God (peace be upon him) had said: "Whoever amongst you sees anything objectionable, let him change it with his hand; if he is not able to do so, then with his tongue; and if he is not even able to do that, then with his heart, and the latter is the weakest form of faith" (Sahih Muslim: Book 1, Chapter 21, Number 79).

The world is facing unprecedented challenges. From global warming to the energy crisis, from financial meltdowns to never-ending violence, from the spread of diseases to ever-increasing poverty and hunger, today's world seems drowned in overwhelming problems and conflicts. Even in our local communities, we may face serious issues related to ignorance and intolerance or drugs and domestic violence. What can be done to face such daunting challenges?

Never fear, hometown heroes are here! Hometown heroes are informed citizens of their communities, of their countries, and of the world. They are everyday people who care and who have the courage to stand up and speak out with the firm conviction that they can make a difference. Hometown heroes are wise youth who understand they will be the leaders of tomorrow and realize they don't have any time to wait until they are older to start making a positive change. Starting with themselves, they try to do whatever they can to bring benefit to people, ever-widening their scope of service to their families, to their neighborhoods, to their communities, to their nation, to their world. Most importantly, hometown heroes use their wisdom to be both strong and gentle in due balance, and they hold themselves to the highest of standards before calling upon others to follow. Through success and failure, they remain poised, actively working towards victory but staying patient for the results.

Such heroes have changed the face of the globe since the dawn of time, and we know many of their names. Who are the heroes of the past, and what can we learn from their stories for today? What image comes to mind when people think of "heroes" nowadays? Compare and contrast these heroes with the description provided above. Who do you consider to be your heroes? Are heroes born, or are they made? Are there heroes serving your community? Do you have it in you to become a hero? What actions can you take at home, in school, and in your greater community to address the problems you see around you and around the world? Finally, what kind of perspectives do you think a person should have who is trying to make change?

We challenge you to take a deeper look into the North American Muslim community and analyze the various concepts surrounding this theme. Be creative! Projects and submissions with the most creativity and insight will receive the highest points. Remember, this theme will encompass all of the MIST competitions and workshops at both the regional and national levels. If you have any questions regarding this theme or anything else MIST-related, please do not hesitate to contact us!