Reflections

Assalamu Alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuhu.

As the second anniversary of my shahada rapidly approaches (only a month away!!), I reflect often on my journey and struggles this far.  There have been many ups and downs, many friends loved and lost and many new ones gained.

I have been called names and most recently, accused of working as a spy for "them". I have been and continue to be the subject of random stranger's hateful comments and stares. But on the other side of the coin, I have been told by friends who have stuck around that they feel inspired by me and the strength that I show in following what I believe so openly with courage and conviction. In sha Allaah I have also been a source of inspiration to other Sisters to follow their hearts and live the life that they feel is right for themselves. To not give up, and to make du'a for those who work against them, no matter how hard that may seem to be.  

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

 “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.”  - Martin Luther King Jr.

My dear friend and inspiration to start this blog, Aisha, lost her battle with an aggressive and hereditary form of lung cancer a few weeks ago. She was a rock and a light in my life as she guided me and taught me more and more about the religion that I have came to love beyond measure. I miss her greatly but know that she is with her loved ones again in Paradise basking in the light of Allaah, subhanah wa t'ala. Mashallaah I am also surprised how quickly the blog that I started only a few months a go has gone so international! What started as mostly a kind of diary of sorts for myself and what I thought would only be a couple of readers at most has become an amazing look at how a message can travel in this day and age! I know Aisha would be pleased to see all of this. You all are awesome!

From a terrified, small town girl to a niqabi woman, I learn something new every day and I welcome each new experience with open arms. Sure there are rough days but I continue on along the path that Allaah has placed me on with faith that He knows better than I what is best for me.

"Allaah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bare.." - Surah al-Baqarah 286