Cat Stevens

        Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, was an influential singer of the 60’s and 70‘s.  He was born Steven Georgiou into a Greek-Cypriot and Swedish family.  He attended a Roman Catholic school in London, where he spent his childhood.  In his youth, he was a successful pop singer , however strayed from his image when he went on a spiritual quest.   He began to consider the meaning of life after being diagnosed with tuberculosis.   He reemerged with a newly contemplative image and began producing albums once again.  He believes that music has the power to unify people, which is why he was eager to return to his career.  His songs are inspired by “the urge to raise human consciousness and seek to find a better world, or make one.”
         After browsing some of Yusuf’s songs, I can see a connection between his early works and newer albums.  His albums released after his spiritual journey have greater religious undertones and are naturally, more mature compared to the work of his alias of Cat Stevens. 
        Yusuf’s website not only promotes his personal journey and music, it exhibits opportunities for others to experience their own journeys.  There is a section for understanding our existence and the importance of our spirituality.  There is also a guideline to help you reach your spiritual destination without succumbing to the pitfalls of distraction.  Some behaviors advised to be avoided include pride, envy, anger, greed and laziness.  Promoted values include humility, generosity, patience, diligence, and charity.  The entirety of the Islamic Law and religion are outlined.  The information is presented in a friendly, informative way, not in a formal and intimidating format.  Talk, articles and videos are also included on the site.  I think that this is overall, a very appropriate way to promote a religion and spirituality in general.  Yusuf’s own journey inspired him to share his knowledge and recommendations with others who wish to find a greater meaning. 
         Another attachment site is dedicated to a charity program led by Yusuf that provides living necessities, education, shelter and activities for children who are orphaned, the victims of a natural disaster or war, or born into poverty.  His programs are currently active in Albania, Pakistan, Montenegro, Kosova, Iraq, Indonesia, and Bosnia.  The web site does an excellent job for putting a face on the issues at hand.  It is clear that these programs are, indeed helping those in need, as seen in the pictures and testimonials included on the site.  All donations, large and small are accepted and the organization strives to produce strength in the face of adversity.
         It is one thing to share your story with others, but Yusuf takes it a step further and provides the necessary tools for those who wish to explore spirituality, or make the world a better place.  Yusuf has the ambition to back up his songs about peace and hope.  I think as a person, and as a website, Yusuf promotes admirable qualities and is doing his best to live up to his lyrics and journey of purpose and meaning.