By Discovering Islam, Anna Stamou Real So "Patients" of Philosophers

Anna Stamou

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID , ATHENS - One of the leading Muslim international awards in Europe recently given to a Greek woman.Public relations manager of the Muslim Association of Greece, Anna Stamou, regarded as one of 10 Muslim women with great influence and the most positive in Europe. 

Originator of the award, is the European Muslim Professionals Network (cedar), which is supported by the Institute of Strategic Dialogue, also known as the "Three Club". Award ceremonies conducted late last year in Madrid, Spain. 

Not many know, six years ago he was a convert to Islam. He found Islam after wrestling with the anxiety itself. 

"My search was long, I always look for an answer. In my search of the truth, I can not get a satisfactory answer," he said, about his inner journey. 

Since high school, Anna had a high interest in science. In these subjects, he was always superior. Impact, in finding answers to her inner uncertainty, he was playing logic. 

"So, I consulted to several schools of philosophy, meet many philosophers. I dealt deeply with Pythagoras," he explained smiling. 

During this search, she met her husband now. At that time, they are both joined as a volunteer organization Doctors of the World, during the war in Iraq. From this man, he finds a lot of knowledge about Islam. 

However, he did not receive raw omongannya. Anna began researching deeper teachings. "I think it's because of the knowledge I gained from the school that Islam is a religion inferior and distorted. Islam although it has given me an answer, I said to myself that I should learn more about this religion," he said. 

In Greece, Islam is often confused with Turkey. The reason is, most Muslims in Greece came from Turkey. Islamic books, generally use their own language. "Although there are thousands of Muslim Greeks, I do not understand why no book published in Greek," he said. He studied Islam from books written in English and French. 

He's lucky to have a transition from the old religion to Islam was accompanied by a receipt from the family and friends. "I have not seen a negative reaction. Some people may have questions, but never have a negative tendency," he said, who claimed to be happy to explain his new religion. 

On the other hand, he also maintains relations with those of different religions as well, including his family. "Now I wear the hijab, and not a problem for them," he said. He will also be present in the middle of her family as they celebrate religious holidays. 

"Hijab is part of faith. Remember, only a part, you can choose to follow or not. It is your choice," he said. He said the Western public opinion is wrong to equate the headscarf as a symbol of female oppression. "Hijab is a matter of choice. I support those who fight for their right to wear it." 

He said the basis of all problems is for peaceful coexistence and tolerance. "During Ramadan, we eat together with our Christian friends, this is something that is not easily found in Europe. Also, my daughter loved and excited for Christmas. They also exist in the family Easter event," he added. 

At Eid al-Fitr, the same thing done to him. In fact, his students took turns to greet and hug him. "I was fortunate to be part of Greece. Democracy is here," said chemistry professor at two universities this Greek.