Ali Baba's Book Series on

I started Ali Baba’s Book Series on Artistic Flags in 2016. Along the way, I have used the colorful flags of different countries as a tool to convey my feelings and to express my thoughts. There are between 200-250 countries spread across all five continents. There is no doubt that each country has its own unique sets of cultural norms, customs, beliefs, and the socioeconomic status. In fact, diversity is one of the human ‘s greatest assets. And, I may add that searching for a common ground and coexistence has been one of the human’s greatest challenges. Fortunately, I can recall many instances in which people have risen above their differences and reached out for commonalities and similarities.

In my previous books, I highlighted two major events- the Olympic Games and the World Cup Tournaments to exemplify as how our spirit of cooperation and humanity have brought us together. I have paid pictorial tribute to all nations by displaying their beautiful and colorful flags for their sincere efforts and contributions. My intention was to celebrate our coexistence and our victories in overcoming obstacles and adversaries.

This book is not any different. I am trying to focus on remembering and celebrating lives of those who have been lost so innocently and tragically because of affiliation of the victims to certain religious groups. The victims have ranged from those who faced forced mass migration and mass killings to those who have who have fallen victims in their own towns, streets, schools, and the houses of worships.

I recall my late mother Maryam dearly valued the freedom she experienced in her visit to USA in 1987. She was particularly amazed to see people from different cultures who were able to practice their faith and their traditions openly in America. She wished the same joy of freedom and dignity for everyone around the world.

Amazing, centuries ago, Virgin Mary had great inspiration for promoting and elevating human spirits. Judging from the Jesus’ spirit of peacefulness and forgiveness, one can easily conclude that Virgin Mary cultivated love and kindness in his heart. Her name is synonymous with tolerance, respect, and acceptance. I do believe Virgin Mary ( or Mary) and my mother Maryam (or Mary) wished friendship, love, equality, freedom, peace, prosperity, grace, happiness, health, humility, and humanity for all of us everywhere on the Earth. This book is a pictorial tribute to honor their wish. This book is all about Mary’s wish.