For some time, I have waited for someone to speak up about the issue of people who proclaim to be Muslim and committing crimes in the name of that faith.

I wanted someone who could speak with authority about the faith to refute these claims made by people who have twisted the words and meaning of the Muslim faith into words of hate and war.

On Dec. 19, I read such a response in your newspaper labeled Maine Compass (“Don’t presume Muslims to be dangerous for acts of a few,” by Kerem Durdag). It is well written with strong words and passion — a passion that counters the passion of those who claim to be Muslim but do not represent the majority of Muslims.

I applaud and thank Karem for writing it and to the newspaper for publishing it.

Frank Ober

Whitefield