2022 Theme Announced

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

The past 20 months have been demanding as we collectively cope with a global pandemic, giving rise to protests and conflict at home and abroad. These events have grabbed our attention as we witness the challenges our brothers and sisters endure and are awed by the determination and courage they possess. These months have not been kind on our bodies and minds, yet we are asked by our community to remain steadfast, to withstand these moments, and keep faith that this will pass.

Often, when we think of courage, we look to the physical and moral manifestation of it, imagining a fearless individual standing firm in a protest, or those willing to make the tough decisions in challenging situations. Philosophers such as Plato or Aristotle discussed courage as a trait set aside for those that do not fear death. However, we can look towards the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (may peace and blessings be upon him) on how we can remain strong and demonstrate courage in various forms. At a time where we are surrounded with injustices, "a word of truth spoken before an unjust ruler" (an-Nasa'i) is the best form of struggle. We remember maintaining self-control is where true strength lies for a believer for "the strong man is one who controls himself in anger" (Bukhari). 

However, sometimes our courage and our conviction to stand firm can be tested or shaken by the outcomes and consequences of our decisions and we may begin to question our yaqeen, our solid conviction (certainty). Instead of giving into despair, we can use this opportunity to become closer to Allah and have the courage to hold firm in our beliefs and not have our faith deterred as we have been told that "the strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah" (Muslim). As we experience tragedies and undergo failures that shake our core, we remain patient and accept the order of Allah for "Allah does not decree anything for the believer except what is good for him" (Ahmad). 

How do you define courage and instill this characteristic into situations that arise in your life? How can we harness our courage to serve our communities while taking care of ourselves? How do we strike the balance between the courage we inwardly and outwardly demonstrate? How do we navigate our vulnerabilities as a part of being courageous? What are ways to value and support those who have taken a stand when it's needed? How can we maintain our beliefs when making hard decisions?

We encourage you to creatively explore these concepts and more in online and in-person Regional and National competitions and workshops during MIST 2022. Remember that unique projects displaying creativity and insight will be judged most favorably.