On June 4th, 2016, the M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi® Dallas center hosted an event titled “Sufism and Islam – The Essence of Love“. At the request of the leadership of the Frisco Police Department, the event was held to foster a connection between one of the Neighborhood Associations and the M.T.O. Shahmaghsoudi® School of Islamic Sufism®. Based on guest feedback, the open and warm reception inspired a transformation in their view of Islam. They also appreciated the educational and informative nature of the program. The program began with an introduction to Islam, Sufism, and the history of the school. Attendees were then invited to visit several exhibits displaying the works of great Sufi Masters of the school and arts. The artwork exhibit included inlaid woodwork (khatam kari), mirror work (ayeneh kari), Persian calligraphy, and tazhib/miniature. Following the exhibit tour, the guests returned to the main hall for a brief demonstration of meditation followed by the Sufi practice or zikr. At the end of the program, the speakers held a Q&A session and the guests enjoyed gourmet Iranian delicacies. The guests were genuinely interested in the teachings of Sufism and had ample time to explore and ask questions. The feedback from the visitors was overwhelmingly positive and some even expressed interest in expanding the dialogue to break through misconceptions. The guests applauded the event as an opportunity to “break down misinformation, distrust and fear between people." The coordinator of the homeowner's association stated: "I left the serenity and beauty of your facility feeling that I had witnessed a rare presentation."