AS the Muslim world celebrates the holy month of Ramadan by fasting — avoiding food, drink and bodily pleasures — it is also the most important period in the Muslims' life calendar. Isn't a Muslim supposed to be completely surrounded by blessings and mercy when he concentrates and fully devotes his time, effort, mind, soul and heart to be a better person? It is a month of reflection, giving and devotion. These are traditions, these are the values, these are the objectives and these are the historical heritages of the blessed month passed on from one generation to another. These are the common threads that unite Muslims all over the world during this holy month. It's a month of extraordinary circumstances in the life of the Muslim, in which he partakes in 30 days of prayers, fasting, giving, surrendering; it is indeed a very special time of the year for every Muslim. A Muslim fasts from bodily pleasures and desires but that is not all, he is ordered to control his thoughts and sayings so they are not at all offensive or bear any harm to anyone. These are the teachings of the Prophet, peace be upon him. So it is a shock to Muslims when they see such shocking crimes committed in the name of their beloved religion, crimes that defy logic and defy any explanation. The people who committed these crimes are nothing but criminals and they should be treated as such. One and a half billion Muslims must not and should not be held hostage to crimes committed by a few criminals. The Muslims, no doubt, have a great responsibility to promote the real virtues of their religion and not allow it to be hijacked by criminals. Ramadan is a holy month with great values, anything done outside that is a criminal act and not a Muslim one.