I walked in the door to the Islamic Center of Waco, and Afzal Siddiq proceeded quickly to prepare me a lunch plate of beef stew and rice and a slice of pizza. Mr. Siddiq is president of the center.

I had been in an Islamic center only once before but not in a town where I live. This visit was like meeting neighbors I didn’t know I had.

Mr. Siddiq is a U.S. Army veteran, and he spoke to me about the greatness of the USA. As we celebrate the USA’s Independence Day, I think it is important to note how people from all over the world have come to this place in the world to worship and speak freely and to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.

I am of English and Scandinavian descent; Mr. Siddiq is of Pakistani descent. I am proud to know him and to salute his service to humanity.