Salam from Salma

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When We Assume The Worst of The Other Side

At my university, Australia: 

'You're going to live in America?'

'Yep, that's the plan.'

'Wow. That's awesome. It is a bit different though, isn't it?

'Well, I guess - '

'I mean, I heard the people can be a little self-absorbed - and then there are those gun laws. I hope you'll be okay.'

...

At a dinner party, USA:

'You have a cool accent. British?'

'Australian actually. I was born and raised in Melbourne.'

'Australia! Wow. The Down Under, huh? Want some shrimp on the barbie?'

'Haha, um actually we don't even say that - '

'Hey. How did it work out for you there. I mean, seems like there are so many rednecks. You must have had it bad with the racism and all.'

...

In my living room, Australia:

'We're going to miss you Salma.'

'I'm going to miss everyone too.'

'Be careful though. America seems lovely but... you wear the hijab and... racists you know.'

'I'll be careful.'

...

In a small village in Sri Lanka:

'MashaAllah, you're such a good girl.'

'Thanks aunty.'

'We thought maybe you would have become all modern.'

'Oh. Modern?'

'Tsk. You know. In those countries - like Australia - people lose their morals, no? '

...

In many places:

'You're Muslim?'

'Yes.'

'Oh.'

...

At a rally protesting the Muslim ban, USA.

'Hey Boss. The crew and I are getting out of here.'

*telephone speech*

'There's no story here. The Muslims are being peaceful.'

*telephone speech*

'Exactly. We're out.'