Assalamu alaikum,

I came from a non religious family, however they still believed in God.

I grew up with friends of different nationalities and religions. My mother taught me the value of being kind to everyone, no matter what there colour of skin. I thank her for this...as i was far from ever being racist.

As i grew into my teens, i became very depressed with my life. I felt as though there was no meaning to it. Yes, i had life..but why was i here?

I would keep a diary of all my thoughts and emotions...i realised later i was one lost soul.

I would go out to nite clubs as a way of escaping. I would be so happy, laughing and enjoying the night with friends (or so i thought). Then when i had to return home again, i would sink into depression.

My conversion to Islam came after my cousin and grandmother passed away.

I questioned God.."why did you do this ????!!!!", and decided that i would no longer believe in Him.

I became more and more depressed, even hating myself...i felt all alone.

I went to see a doctor for some anti-depressants...i tried them once, and did not want to take them again.

I had friends who were born again christian...so i went to there church...as i guess i somehow, deep down still believed in the existence of God. I came back feeling as though everyone was fake.

I began asking people about there faith, and what they believed in.

I remember asking " if there is a God, please guide me to the truth " as i found all these religions confusing...and didnt know what the truth was.

SubhanAllah, it was maybe only weeks later that i went down to an islamic council and asked for some information on islam.

I was so nervous, but yet so excited. As i began to read up on this wonderful way of life, i felt as though it was the truth, and that Allah had guided me, when i needed Him the most.

A while later, i took my shahadah, and cried..it felt amazing !!!! I told my parents (stupid me, thinking they'd be so happy for me)..that i was now a muslim...they freaked out..and couldnt understand why i did such a thing. I asked them just to give me some time, and i would show them (through the teachings of islam) how i would change for the better, and how i would honour them and respect them.

Alhamdulillah, i have been muslim for so many years now, and have changed for the better..masha Allah. Not only that...Allah (swt) with His mercy has guided three other of my family members to Islam

Allahu Akbar.