Theme 2024

The Treasure of Fellowship: From Fragrance to Fortress.

A fundamental shift in society has occurred in recent years, emphasizing individualism and cold digital interactions. However, as humans are social creatures, it is crucial to recognize the significance of authentic connections among ourselves. Creating connections and building fellowship and companionship hold a significant place in the teachings of Islam. It is not merely a casual social relationship but a profound and spiritually uplifting bond based on compassion and virtue. In Islam, friendship is viewed as a divine gift that can guide individuals on their journey toward spiritual growth and righteousness.

We are reminded to choose our companions wisely as the connections we make impact our character and conduct, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "The quality of good company and that of bad company is that of the owner of musk and of the iron smith, and the owner of musk would either offer you free of charge or you would buy it from him or you would smell its pleasant odor, and so far as the iron smith is concerned, he would either burn your clothes or you shall have to smell its repugnant smell" (Muslim). We need to reflect deeply on our own actions as well to see if we uphold the values we wish to see in others, to treat people with respect and kindness, whether they share the same faith or not. If not, we may become isolated and lonely. This is a condition that affects far too many people and has been deemed a public health priority by the U.S. Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy.

A genuine bond is built when one is sincere in their intentions, loyal in their actions, advises one another through compassion, and is trustworthy in their words. As Muslims, we are encouraged to hone these attributes out of love, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, narrated that "None of you truly believes until you love for your brother what you love for yourself" (Ibn Majah). This love is a powerful force that inspires people to do the most amazing acts of kindness and empathy for each other, no matter how large or small these acts may be. This love further strengthens our bonds to one another, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, related to his companions, "The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion and sympathy are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever" (Muslim). By embodying these values in our relationships, we can then truly support and assist those closest to us.

How do you cultivate and maintain your ties with others? How do you define friendship? In moments of competing interests, how do you provide counsel to those closest to you? How do you help them? How do you know that those around you bring a positive impact to you? Do you bring a positive influence to those close to you? Do you love for your brother or sister what you love for yourself?

We encourage you to creatively explore these concepts and more in Regional and National competitions and workshops during MIST 2024. Remember that unique projects displaying creativity and insight will be judged most favorably

Previous Themes

2023: The Weight of Power: Ruling the Self to Serve Others

2022: The Conviction in Courage: Finding the Balance between Fear and Risk

2021: The Character of Community: Healing Together as One

2020: Trusting the Process: Contentment Through Adversity 

2019: The Honor of Humility: Discovering Dignity in Challenging Pride

2018: The Valor of Mercy: Summoning the Strength of Compassion

2017: The Challenge of Beauty: Striving for Perfection in an Imperfect World

2016: The Race Against Time

2015: The Clarity of Sincerity: From Outer Perceptions to Inner Reflections

2014: The Art of Generosity: Finding the Greatness to Give

2013: The Patience of Champions: Rising to a Better Self

2012: Family: Reconnecting our Hearts to Home

2011: Loyalty: The Key to Faith and Citizenship