Posted by ladyjane:
"...You are not the only one having that same (Muslim cold shoulder) experience..."
The most peculiar thing is that these suddenly closed-rank Muslims have been trusted for YEARS. I find myself apprehensive to share potentially-sensitive information with them based on their disconcerting changes and recent nasty attitudes.
Here is an example:
It is no secret that I am a firearms enthusiast. Coworkers have gone shooting with me and became enthusiasts themselves. Well, one of my recent-isolationist-behavior Muslim acquaintances asked me for "tips" that I use to hide firearms around the house. I couldn't believe my ears!
Am I being hypersensitive to believe he may be casing my home as a source of guns to steal? The question was out of left field. I responded that my firearms are stored in a safe, in a locked interior room, with a comprehensive alarm system, all protected by my 85 lb. dog. Some of these facts are true, others aren't. I wasn't going to give an honest answer due to the increasingly anti-social and bizarre behavior I've experienced from my Muslim workmates.
I shake my head ruefully because I've worked shoulder-to-shoulder with these people for so long. They seem prepared to absolutely throw this respectful relationship out the window on a moment's notice...but I suppose that is how domestic terror cells (e.g. Lackawanna, NY) operate. I haven't done anything to "let on to them" that I've grown distrustful, but I'm keeping notes with regard to suspicious behavior.
[/rant mode]
~ Blue Jays ~
As a co-worker once said to me in a similar situation..."I wouldn't trust him on my airplane."
Don't count on that. Your response sounds like a female voice on the answering machine saying "WE'RE not home right now..."
Here is another explanation: Your coworkers are worried that if/when another attack comes *they* will be in danger of a backlash. They are thinking about buying firearms to protect themselves and their families - not trying to figure out where you keep yours. They may be just as worried about the crazies as we are but don't want to speak out.
I do suspect however they know that another attack is coming sooner or later and are withdrawing from their co-workers.