Hmmm, sounds almost too good to be true. One of two in 50 years and he came to your town? He is pressuring you to choose for the rest of your life? I say, remember all choices are for now, not for ever. You make the best decisions you can with what you have at the time. Allways remember your mind is yours to make the decisions you feel are right. Instruction is good, but make sure you still have the veto power in your mind to make your own choices.

From what I know of you, you do want to go into politics, so why not persue that. You may thank youself in 20 years. And if not, you can retrain. What he offers to get you into top schools, etc, I recon you can do that on your own. Be wary of shiney promises. If you aim to be prime minister, if that's why you listed it in subjects, I really don't think Canada can have a Muslim PM unless it becomes a Muslim country, or you conceal your religion.

Remember life is a journey, and you gather knowledge along the way. It's good that he welcomes critisizm, don't idolize anyone, for everyone has their faults and fears. Be observant, and reserve judgement.

That's my advice.

I agree.  This sounds like an incredible opportunity, and however it goes, you will learn much.

Go forth, my padawan learner, and God speed.

IT

Russ

Sorry I couldn't help laughing when you said he knows the way of the sufi but he doesn't know how to get a date.

Besides that though, enjoy!

waterfall

Thought.  Maybe he was an engineer in a former life?  That would explain wise but inept.

IT

Russ

I think this sounds like an interesting and unique opportunity -- quite amazing how life works out that way sometimes!

I do suggest you listen to Elanorgold's advice... though this is an amazing opportunity, remember that YOU are in charge of YOUR life.  I imagine he speaks in such a manner because he is willing to call in some favours for you, so he wants to make sure you are fully committed.  But always remember, this is YOUR life.  I really hesitate when someone says to choose for the rest of your life -- you personally know from my many private emails to you how often "the rest of my life" has changed due to circumstances and events and new knowledge -- and I am not a unique case by any measure.

All that being said, I hope that you get what you want from this newfound teacher/student situation.  I think you have been given an amazing opportunity for spiritual growth.  You may have also found an amazing opportunity for setting your career in the direction you want (but like I said, approach with caution).

I wish you the greatest in all of this.  Just don't forget your friends (ME!!!) when you become a political power.  I think a couple months ago you promised me a cushy job doing peace work...

Hi Omni:

Make sure he's not an imposter. Some psychopaths or schizophrenics can be very convincing—for a while.

Tell him he's full of shit. If he agrees, then he's genuine.

 Hahah I think I gave the wrong impression with my first post.  He is married! 

Thanks everybody!  I know that I am in control of my life, or rather, that God is in control of my life.  And I understand that if things start going down a road where I feel pressured unjustly, or pushed into a position I don't want to be, I will walk away, or at least stand up.  

I will update as there are things to update with!

As-salaamu alaikum

-Omni

"He has given me a strict deadline to decide what I want to do in life.  He said that if I want to become involved in Canadian politics he can help me get into one of the top ivy league schools and introduce me to some major players. "

Hmmm.....just beware Omni, you shouldn't become overly indebted to him. It can be big control factor over someone.

Did you actually write a dating add for him or were you joking? I didn't get that.

Omni - I've been wondering where you were (and hoping you weren't frozen solid up there ). It sounds like you have made a really interesting friend! You seem like a very smart guy and so I am sure that you will listen to whatever it is that your heart is saying about this man. Your heart will steer you in the right direction - whatever that may be.

Good luck - and have fun with this!

 I was kidding about the dating add :P  And thanks somegal ^^

As-salaamu alaikum

-Omni

i add my voice to those who feel sceptical about this guy.

he is one of two such educated people and he lives where??  in a town with no Mosque??  one of only two of the same faith in town??

there is a break in logic here for me Omni.

I think perhaps the wool is being pulled over your eyes .  Con men exist in all cultures and all faiths

 I would be want to disagree with you on the grounds that he has not demanded anything from me that I'm not willing to give (money for example).  His wife is a Muslim too, and he has several times mentioned that he was very much wondering why he was moving up here (it was at the behest of his wife who I actually know, she is the daughter of a beloved passed on teacher I had in highschool).

But I am approaching this with a critical mind don't worry.

As-salaamu alaikum

-Omni

One thing I've always known about you, Omni, is that you have excellent judge in character (after all, we're friends ) and you always are aware of what's going on around you -- so if you say he's a good guy, then he's a good guy.  Have fun expanding your mind!!!

This all sounds very good. I wondered what was keeping you away as well! Glad to see you again Omni.

He may be a master ... and  you will learn.

He may be exaggerating or a con-man ... and you will learn.   The lessons will be different. 

Either way ... it will be an interesting journey Omni.  Keep your wonderful critical/evaluative thinking hat on though.   

This is good news for you Om and a great opportunity. Milk it for all it's worth and God's blessings be upon you.