On the YRAC Name

By: Nadirah Angail
You R A Creator Editor/Journalist

What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Juliet said that. And I agree, to an extent. Names don’t define or alter the worth of the things they identify, but if you have a choice, why not choose one that’s fitting?

And so “You R A Creator” was chosen. We needed something that represented the God-given talents this site works to unearth, something that highlighted Muslims’ natural inclination to produce and cultivate. We wanted to unite the worldwide ummah, to create connections where there were none, all with the help of Allah (SWT). We wanted to serve Allah (SWT) by creating peace and productivity on our site, hoping that it would leak into other spheres. This was our intention in choosing this name.

Despite our intentions, some believe that “You R A Creator” means something else. They aggressively suggest that our name attempts to link us, mere humans, to the Creator. They see the word “creator” and become incensed. I appreciate and share their lack of tolerance for blasphemy, but a closer look at the name shows that their energy is unwarranted. It’s all in the article. The difference between “a” creator and “the” Creator is immeasurable. The word “a” implies a general, lower case term, just another one of many. “The” implies a specific, upper case term, the one and only. We believe wholeheartedly that you are a creator, never the Creator. YRAC would never support or promote anything that associates itself with the Creator. Before anything else, each and every one of us is Muslim, dedicated to Allah(SWT) and fully aware of the one unforgivable sin.

Sure, we could have chosen another less controversial name, but our purpose is not to be non-controversial. If that is what it takes to awaken the natural spirit in us all, let there be controversy. As long as those involved have pure hearts, intelligent discussion never does any harm. In fact, it is welcome. Active members know YRAC has been the host of many controversial topics, all of which were discussed in a candid yet respectful and Islamic manner. Disagree all you want. It is your right, but know that we love Allah (SWT) just as much as you do. Know that were know our place as His servants and would never blur the boundary.

Nadirah Angail
Copyright© 2009