Mixed feelings

I believe in the freedom of religion. But I have to admit that when I hear about the Muslim religion, or about people of the Muslim faith, there is a brief feeling of fear that goes thru me. On a rational level, I know that the vast majority of Muslims are good, peace loving people, no different from me. But on an emotional level, I still feel uneasy when I see someone dressed in the traditional garb. I know that I was deeply effected by 9/11. And now we have the shooting at Ft Hood, among other things. I also know that if I look at any religion I can find murders, fanatics, those who twist their religious beliefs to justify violence in the name of their God. But even knowing that on a rational level, I personally don't have that twinge when I see someone wearing the traditional Jewish garb, or a Christian wearing a cross. So does anyone out there have any suggestions on how I can NOT get that twinge? Am I the only one that gets it?

My Pip has been trying hard to earn her keep. I was feeling bad yesterday so stayed home from work. Nothing serious, just cramps and back pain that has kept me up the past few nights. So yesterday, I laid on the couch most of the day and tried to nap. Pip was right there snuggled in on me. When got up to go to the bathroom, she followed me and sat on the floor until I was done, then she came back to the couch with me and snuggled in for more nap time. She stayed with me all day, only going outside when I was feeling up to venturing out to the mail box. Then she came right back in with me. I think she kind of likes me a little. And that's about how much I like her. Just a tiny little bit!!