( A report by Sr. Nausheena Hussain, a parent at Al-Amal)
In a country where Muslim celebrity role models are far and few in between, NFL star and former Vikings player Husain Abdullah took some time off to spend the day with students at Al-Amal School on Friday, May 18, 2012. He shared his journey, gave advice while highlighting his American Muslim identity.
NFL Star Husain Abdullah interacting with Al-Amal students
"Listen to your elders, they've been through it." This is just one of the many pieces of wisdom NFL player, Husain Abdullah shared with the students at Al-Amal School. He explained to the much attentive students to heed the advice that parents and teachers give them because of the experience they have. Abdullah also shared that he used to love listening to rap music, gangsta music, as he put it.
He realized that the lyrics represented everything against the teachings of Islam. He stopped listening to such music and has substituted nasheeds from Native Deen, Zain Bhikha, and Yusuf Islam .
He is a Lakers fan which received several boos and one fist punch of approval. He advised the children to always have a back plan. His: Plan A NFL, Plan B get a Masters in academic advising, and Plan C janitor.
Abdullah had many stories to share with the students, and they were eager to ask questions.
Student: "How much money do you make?"
Adbullah: In 2007, when I finished college, I made $0 and now that I don't work for the Vikings, I make $0
Student: Is it true you fasted last year?
Abdullah: Yes, I hope so. I am Muslim, so I have to fast.
Student: How did you do it?
Abdullah: Just like you.
Student: Have you done hajj?
Abdullah: No, but I did for the first time leave the mainland and did Umrah.
Abdulllah's parents converted to Islam in their teenage years, so all twelve of his brothers and sisters were born into Islam, a proud fact he shared with his news fans. Four girls and eight boys.
Student: Have you been bullied?
Abdullah: People tried to bully me, but I got 8 brothers. Watcha gonna do?
Al-Amal National Honor Society (NHS) students with Husain Abdullah
Abdullah spent time signing autographs on school planners, footballs, and random pieces of paper. Taking pictures, greeting every student with a Salaam, and always wearing a pearly white smile. Even some moms and teachers squeezed in for pictures with the star! Special props go out to the students of the Al-Amal National Honor Society (NHS) for inviting and organizing such a wonderful opportunity for the community of Al-Amal.