× Register Login What's New! Contact us
Page 5 of 34 First ... 3 4 5 6 7 15 ... Last
Results 81 to 100 of 677 visibility 248903

Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

  1. #1
    brightness_1
    Jewel of LI
    Array Ansar Al-'Adl's Avatar
    Join Date
    Dec 2004
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    4,681
    Threads
    189
    Reputation
    16666
    Rep Power
    130
    Rep Ratio
    36
    Likes Ratio
    2

    Lightbulb Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here! (OP)



    If you are a revert please add your story here, because it is very inspiring Alhamdullilah.

    There are several stories on this site:
    http://thetruereligion.org/modules/xfsection/

    I'll post a few:
    Lara


    Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Raheem
    DISCOVERING ISLAM: A CANADIAN MUSLIMA'S STORY
    April 25, 1996


    As-Salamu Alaikum wa Rahmahtullahi wa Barakatu (May the peace, the mercy, and the blessings of Allah be upon you).


    I am Canadian-born of Scandinavian and other ancestry, and I was raised in Canada. I have been a Muslima since February 1993 when I was 23. While growing up, I was never affiliated with any religion nor was I an atheist. When I was in my mid-teens I started to think somewhat about religion and at that time I did believe in the Oneness of God (Tawheed). Christianity never interested me.


    My first contact with Muslims occurred when I was introduced to some Muslim international students in 1988. Through them I learned a bit about Islam, such as Ramadan fasting. But it was really not until 1992 that I became interested in Islam. In the summer of that year a Canadian newspaper published a series of articles attacking Islam by using examples of anti-Islamic behaviour of some Muslims in an attempt to vilify Islam itself. Non-Muslims tend to judge Islam on the basis of the behaviour (which is not necessarily Islamic) of Muslims. I was not yet a Muslima but the articles were so outrageous that I sent a letter to the editor in defence of Islam. Now I was curious about Islam. I re-read some articles I had picked up several months earlier from the MSA Islam Awareness Week display at my university. One was about 'Isa (Alaihe Salam) [Jesus] as a Prophet of Islam. Also, I asked a Muslim to get me some books about Islam; they were about the overall ideology of Islam and were written by two famous Muslim authors. Impressed, I thought, "This is Islam? It seems so right." Over the next few months in my free time while attending university I continued to learn about Islam from authentic Islamic books, for example The Life of Muhammad (Salallahu Alaihe wa Salam) by Dr. Muhammad Haykal. One certainly does not learn the truth about Islam from the mass media! Also, newcomers to Islam especially must be careful to avoid the writings of deviant groups which claim ties to Islam so as not to be misled. And just because the author has an Arabic name does not necessarily mean that he or she is a knowledgeable Muslim or even Muslim at all. Also, I learned about Islam from some kind, knowledgeable Muslims and Muslimas who did not pressure me. Meanwhile, I had begun to Islamize my behaviour which did not require huge change. I already avoided consuming alcohol and pig meat. Also, I always preferred to dress conservatively/modestly and not wear makeup, perfume, or jewellery outside my home. I started to eat only Islamically slaughtered meat. Also during this time I visited a masjid (mosque) in my city for the first time.


    Until I discovered Islam, I knew almost nothing about it. I say discovered because the "Islam" that I had always heard about through the mass media is not true Islam. I had always assumed that Islam is just another man-made religion, not knowing that it is the Truth. I had also assumed that a person had to be raised as a Muslim to be one. I was not aware of the fact that all humans are born Muslim (in a state of Islam - submitted to the Creator). Like many "Westerners" I associated Islam with the "East" and did not know that Islam is universal in both time and place. However, I never had negative feelings about Islam, al-Hamdulillah. The more knowledge that I acquired about Islam, the more I felt that I too can actually be Muslim as I found that many of the beliefs that I already had were actually Islamic not merely "common sense."


    So after familiarizing myself with what Islam is basically about and what are the duties and proper conduct of a Muslim person, as well as thinking and reflecting, I felt ready to accept Islam and live as a Muslima. One day while at home I said the Shahada (declaration of faith) and began to perform the five daily salawat (prayers), al-Hamdulillah. That was in February 1993, several days before the fasting month of Ramadan began. I did not want to miss the fasting this time! I found the fasting to be much easier than I had anticipated; before I fasted I had worried that I might faint. At first there was a bit of an adjustment period getting used to the new routine of performing salah and fasting, and I made some mistakes, but it was exciting and not difficult. I started to read the Qur'an (Abdullah Yusuf Ali's translation) when I was given one soon after accepting Islam. Before that I had read only excerpts of it in other books. Also in the beginning, I found The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam by Dr. Yusuf al-Qaradawi to be a useful guide.


    In January 1996 (during Ramadan) I started to wear the Islamic headscarf (hijab). I realized that I could not fully submit to Allah (SWT), which is what being Muslim is about, without wearing it. Islam must be accepted and practised in its entirety; it is not an "alter-to-suit-yourself" religion. Since becoming a Muslima I was aware that the headscarf is required of Muslim women and I had intended to wear it eventually. I should have worn it immediately upon accepting Islam but for many Muslimas (even some from Muslim families) it is not easy to take that step and put it on in a non-Muslim society. It is silly how so many persons get upset over a piece of fabric! Also, it is interesting to note that Christian nuns are never criticized for covering their heads. Never in my life did I have negative feelings toward muhajjabas (women who wear hijab) when I saw them. What made me hesitate to put it on was fearing receiving bad treatment from others, especially family. But we must fear Allah (SWT) only, not others. In the few months before I permanently put on hijab I started "practising" wearing it. I wore it when I travelled between my home and the local masjid on Fridays when I started attending the jum'a salah (Friday congregational prayer). (Of course, since becoming Muslim I always wore it during every salah). A couple of weeks prior, in du'a I began asking Allah (SWT) to make it easy for me to wear it.


    The day I finally put it on permanently I had reached the point where I felt that I could no longer go out with a bare head, and I thought "tough bananas" if others do not like me wearing it since I alone am accountable for my actions and am required to perform my Islamic duties, and I could never please everyone anyway. Sometimes opposition to hijab is a control issue: some persons just plainly do not like those who are determined and independent especially if it is their child.


    Upon wearing it I immediately felt protected and was finally able to go out and not be the target of stares/leers from men. At first I felt a bit self-conscious but after several weeks I felt completely used to wearing hijab. Sometimes other persons look puzzled/confused, I think because they are not used to seeing pale-faced, blue-eyed Muslimas! By the way, wearing hijab is da'wah in a way as it draws attention to Islam.


    Since accepting Islam I continue to seek knowledge about the Deen (religion) which is a lifelong duty for all Muslims--male and female. Currently, I am learning Arabic and hope to be able to read the Qur'an in Arabic soon, insha'Allah. Reading, discussing Islam with other Muslims, and the Friday jum'a khutba are all educational. Striving to be as pious as one can be and fighting against one's own evil traits (jihad al-nafs) takes effort and is continuous and never ending for Muslims.


    I find Islam ever-more fascinating, and I enjoy living as a Muslima.
    Last edited by Ansar Al-'Adl; 05-04-2005 at 01:40 AM.
    Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
    "Surely I was sent to perfect the qualities of righteous character" [Musnad Ahmad, Muwatta Mâlik]


    Visit Ansâr Al-'Adl's personal page HERE.
    Excellent resources on Islam listed HERE.

  2. #81
    Sis_ReNa's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    usa, minnesota
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    148
    Threads
    9
    Rep Power
    112
    Rep Ratio
    15
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Red face Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Report bad ads?

    Ok So I belive that Islam found me, but on the other hand I was guided to it. But on the other hand i was searching for. any ways here is my story i hope i dont bore you. I didnt go in great detil but inshAllah it is good enough:sister:

    Salam walakum, (peace and blessings to you all) :sister:

    All my life I have believed in a god . My mother and family were Christian and at the age of 5 I got my mom back to going to church. Then 10 years later I guess I got to smarter. Because it didn't make sense. They were trying to tell me 6+8=10002. I felt soo lost. Dealing with life physically hurt, physically hurt my heart. So I tried everything but jewism and thioism (remember I cant spell) but I tried buddist and witch craft and other forms of Christianity. I had just got done with looking in to wicca and duridism.

    Ten YEARS Later......

    January 04'

    I went to a book store to get my daughter some books. I told my mom I was just going to check to see if there is any religion I hadn't tried or looked in to. When I went and checked it out there was a huge section there was over a 1,000 books on witch craft and on Christianity (go figure) some on buddism. and way On the bottom shelf, down in the corner was Islam. Now keep in mind Iam so ignorant I didn't know what Islam was or what Muslims where. There there was such a think called Islam or Muslims. There was some Qurans and a book called Islam for dummies. I picked it up and I couldn't belive my eyes. It was all the moral, spiritual Islam had everything that I had all ready belived in. I was soo happy I brought it straight to my mom and said look look what I found and she was shocked. . She didn't understand how she raised a Muslim for a daughter

    Everything I had preached. Every thing I was looking for in a religion alhamduillah. And I bought a Quran that night. Started reading it . And then went to the libray and found the Islam for dummies book and studied that and took my shahhada in the 4 days of finding Islam. Wear Hijab (head Cover) right away Also



    So I went in to Yahoo chat trying to find fellow sisters and learn more about Islam. I learned very quickly that Islam is not in chat rooms. You might find Muslims but there is not Islam and no Allah. A person told me to go to this certain room at a certain time. There was a very smart man teaching others about Islam. I was soo happy. I was there for few months. And then he would say stuff like: the Hijab protects woman, and woman in the US deserve to be raped and beaten for the way they dress. And any one that would try to stand up to him or test his true knowledge he would tell us to iggy. And every time I would challenge him he would say I was a none beliver. And have sisters I thought were my "sisters" iggy me. That just broke my heart so I started to think that maybe all Muslims thought this way about woman. I mean he would treat woman like they were nothing, unless they followed every thing he said. We were like disposable cameras. I stopped Islam right then and there I couldn't belive it. But I had nothing to judge him by. Remember I know nothing about Islam until now. So I took a break.

    Nov. 04.... A friend that I was talking to about islam Know i was thinking of leaving islam, sent me a book (Purification of the heart) by Hamza Yusuf . How stupid am I , I allmost left the one true, last, beauitful religion. FOR what? for some reason i forgot Muslims where human too. I had to remember why I came to Islam. I came for the religion and Allah(god) not for any man or woman or what they thought was the "true" religion. So in Dec 04 I accepted Allah and the messengers and the quran and sunnah in my heart totally.. ALHAMDUILLAH

    The story is not done yet, its a NEVER ENDING JURNEY!!
    but later my mother of 60 yearsold on her 60th birthday. Sept. 21 2004 took her SHAHHADA.

    Allah uh Akbar!!!

    ONe down about 6 million to go Just kidding, I just hope I can be the example of Islam As Allah intended

    People tell me my next step is marriage LOL we will see but like i said its a never ENDING story. inashAllah we can be good exsamples of Muslims,and help the new converts find the islam that Allah intended.
    So that is my story and iam sticking to it lol

    Salam and peace to everyone, May Allah bless us all and guied us to his will and only is WILL Ameen
    Rena

    P.s

    It dont Hurt no more
    chat Quote

  3. Report bad ads?
  4. #82
    Umm Yoosuf's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Al-Athariyyah
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    4,851
    Threads
    193
    Rep Power
    132
    Rep Ratio
    50
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Masha Allah that was a wonderful story sister rena. Its amazing how Allah guides people in many different ways. How did your mother come to Islam (Alhamdulilaah she too reverted) did you give her dawah?

    Jazakallahu Khayraan for sharing
    chat Quote

  5. #83
    Sis_ReNa's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    usa, minnesota
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    148
    Threads
    9
    Rep Power
    112
    Rep Ratio
    15
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    format_quote Originally Posted by Jannah View Post
    Masha Allah that was a wonderful story sister rena. Its amazing how Allah guides people in many different ways. How did your mother come to Islam (Alhamdulilaah she too reverted) did you give her dawah?

    Jazakallahu Khayraan for sharing
    Salam walakum wr wb,
    No i just tried to be the best exsample of my faith and deen and decided it was best for her
    chat Quote

  6. #84
    - Qatada -'s Avatar
    brightness_1
    Spread this Avatar!
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    May 2005
    Location
    ...travelling to the hereafter..
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    11,346
    Threads
    798
    Rep Power
    157
    Rep Ratio
    55
    Likes Ratio
    5

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    wa alykum as-Salaam warahmatulahi wabarakatuh.


    masha Allaah! that waz a good story.. i've read of the guy who you were talking about on the chatroom, where he said that those women 'deserved to get raped' but i dont think thats true.. because society has such a bad effect on them and they dont look for the truth.

    This happens to allsorts of people but we all should realise that it is our duty to show people the truth, and if we all as muslims did do our duty by spreading islam (even if it was one ayah/verse like our beloved Prophet Muhammad sal Allaahu alayhi waSalam told us to do.) - life would be much better and it would let people realise the truth, or atleast get to know about it.

    Alhamdulillah i'm really happy for your mom too, because masha Allaah she brought you up as a muslimah without even knowin it.. Allaah the Most Merciful knew that you and your mom had alot of good inside of you, and then picked the right time to guide you and your mom to the truth.. subhan Allaah.


    jazak Allaah khayr sis.


    wa Salaam o 'alykum warahmatulahi wabarakatuh.
    chat Quote

  7. Report bad ads?
  8. #85
    Umm Yoosuf's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Al-Athariyyah
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    4,851
    Threads
    193
    Rep Power
    132
    Rep Ratio
    50
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    format_quote Originally Posted by Sis_ReNa View Post
    Salam walakum wr wb,
    No i just tried to be the best exsample of my faith and deen and decided it was best for her
    Thats great. Praise be to Allah. Keep on seeking knowledge sister.
    chat Quote

  9. #86
    Sis_ReNa's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    usa, minnesota
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    148
    Threads
    9
    Rep Power
    112
    Rep Ratio
    15
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    format_quote Originally Posted by Fi_Sabilillah View Post
    wa alykum as-Salaam warahmatulahi wabarakatuh.


    masha Allaah! that waz a good story.. i've read of the guy who you were talking about on the chatroom, where he said that those women 'deserved to get raped' but i dont think thats true.. because society has such a bad effect on them and they dont look for the truth.

    This happens to allsorts of people but we all should realise that it is our duty to show people the truth, and if we all as muslims did do our duty by spreading islam (even if it was one ayah/verse like our beloved Prophet Muhammad sal Allaahu alayhi waSalam told us to do.) - life would be much better and it would let people realise the truth, or atleast get to know about it.

    Alhamdulillah i'm really happy for your mom too, because masha Allaah she brought you up as a muslimah without even knowin it.. Allaah the Most Merciful knew that you and your mom had alot of good inside of you, and then picked the right time to guide you and your mom to the truth.. subhan Allaah.


    jazak Allaah khayr sis.


    wa Salaam o 'alykum warahmatulahi wabarakatuh.
    well i think its more thant that, i personly dont belive that anyone has a RIGHT to hurt another person EVEN if they think they have just caus but that is just me. LOL yea pretty funny how my mom was a christan and raised a muslim and LOL then became a muslim . alhamduillah Allah is soo good . Allah uh Akbar.
    thankyou
    Rena
    chat Quote

  10. #87
    Umm Yoosuf's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Al-Athariyyah
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    4,851
    Threads
    193
    Rep Power
    132
    Rep Ratio
    50
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Very strange i am sure i posted something about book here....i can't seem to see it! Sister i can't find the information on the study circles in paltalk amybe one of the mebers can be of any hlep

    Wasalaam
    chat Quote

  11. #88
    - Qatada -'s Avatar
    brightness_1
    Spread this Avatar!
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    May 2005
    Location
    ...travelling to the hereafter..
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    11,346
    Threads
    798
    Rep Power
    157
    Rep Ratio
    55
    Likes Ratio
    5

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!




    I moved the posts to this section sorry:

    http://www.islamicboard.com/basics-i...tml#post150115


    chat Quote

  12. #89
    M H Kahn's Avatar
    brightness_1
    Awaiting email confirmation
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    407
    Threads
    18
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    9
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!



    Are all the people we know as Muslims for their birth to parents (who also identify themselves as Muslims) are really so? I think, most of them are not in that becoming a Muslim pre-requires that one learn the tenets of Islam and accept the same as the only divine code of life. This sister has learnt Islam and accepted it. She has correctly pointed out that all Muslims are not Islamists. So there should be some people with dawah to the look-alike fake Muslims to accept Islam and be true Muslims. The Tablig Jamat is working from this philosophy in part, but their ordinaruy jamats are composed of more ignorant people than the those knowing Islam.

    So we each should keep on striving to be more and more pious, fighting against our own evil traits (jihad al-nafs) and inviting the fake Muslims and non Muslims to come under the shelter of Islam.The Tablig Jamat may also re-orient its activities.
    chat Quote

  13. Report bad ads?
  14. #90
    M H Kahn's Avatar
    brightness_1
    Awaiting email confirmation
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    407
    Threads
    18
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    9
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    4:17 God accept the repentance of those who do evil in ignorance and repent soon afterwards; to them will God turn in mercy: For God is full of knowledge and wisdom.

    4:18 Of no effect is the repentance of those who continue to do evil, until death faces one of them, and he says, "Now have I repented indeed;" nor of those who die rejecting Faith: for them have We prepared a punishment most grievous.
    chat Quote

  15. #91
    *Hana*'s Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Senior Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Sep 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    833
    Threads
    1
    Rep Power
    116
    Rep Ratio
    73
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Salam Alaikum:

    I just thought I would share my story with you. There is nothing special about it, but it might let someone else know another person has shared their thoughts or ideas, inshallah.

    Like many in the west, I was raised a Catholic Christian. I came from a fairly strong religious background, grew up loving my church and participating in Sunday School and the church choir. As a young girl growing up in the Catholic Church I had a lot of questions that could never seem to be answered regardless of who I asked, but I continued to believe because that's what I was told to do. "Just have faith" seemed to be the answer of the day.

    Things like original sin, the tri-union and blood atonement were a complete mystery for me and yet the very basis of my faith necessitated the following of this doctrine. To add insult to injury God said, "I am not the author of confusion." And yet, as I grew older, I was more confused than ever.

    I always loved and believed in God and never questioned His existence, but I began to reject the ideas taught in Christianity as I felt these were man-made and self-fulfilling. I continued on with life happy and content with my love and belief in God without following organized religion.

    The day came when the world was flooded with news stories of 9/11 and I, like most, was glued to the television for days watching the events unfold. All I remember hearing about the attack was Islam and Muslims. I had pre-conceived ideas about Islam and Muslims and they weren't good, but still I couldn't imagine any large religion like Islam, Judaism or Christianity, condoning this behavior.

    As I had suspected, within 5 minutes of searching I realized Islam does not condone the killing of innocents and I continued my research. The more I read the more I realized that the teachings of Islam is what I had believed all along and now I wanted to know more from the followers of Islam. That brought me to MSN Chat and the Islam room. I met so many wonderful people there and to this day they have remained my friends. They spent countless hours teaching me and I spent countless hours trying to defend the faith I grew up with and wanting to show them I could not have been wrong all these years.

    I struggled, and often cried, at the thought that all I learned and practiced was wrong. I was angry, frustrated and confused. But, after three years of learning I finally accepted the fact that the teachings of Islam is what I had always believed and it wasn't so far from what I was taught. I finally realized I had found the truth and it was time to embrace it and let go of any fears. I remember one fear was, "What if I?m wrong?" Well, I can't be wrong. I only want to be closer to God and to worship only Him. That can never be wrong and that is exactly what Islam teaches.

    Alhamdulillah, I reverted in February, 2004, and I am still learning the basics and will continue to learn every day, Inshallah. Being the only Muslimah in my area, there are times I struggle and stumble, but I know I have the love and support of my Muslim brothers and sisters to help me. That is one of the beauties of Islam. You gain a large instant family of brothers and sisters within the folds of Islam. Regardless of race or color you are welcomed with open arms by Muslims all over the world. Alhamdulillah!

    May Allah, swt, continue to guide us all to the truth. Ameen
    Hana
    :sister:
    Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!


    wwwislamicboardcom - Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    "Whoever is deprived of gentleness is deprived of all good" (Sahîh Muslim, Sunan Abî Dawûd)

    The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched...but are felt in the heart.
    -Helen Keller
    chat Quote

  16. #92
    sapphire's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Umme Umaymah
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jul 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    2,822
    Threads
    2
    Rep Power
    121
    Rep Ratio
    37
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Ameen!!!!May Allah keep us all on the straight path...may many more people see the beayty of deen inshallah!!!!Ameen....
    Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    wwwislamicboardcom - Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!
    chat Quote

  17. #93
    Emmy's Avatar Limited Member
    brightness_1
    Limited Member
    star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2006
    Location
    NY
    Religion
    Unspecified
    Posts
    9
    Threads
    2
    Rep Power
    0
    Rep Ratio
    32
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Asalaamu Alaikum everyone,

    Wow, this thread has 7 pages. Hope someone actually reads this. I actually wrote it a while ago.


    I am still relatively new to Islam, so forgive me If I sound naiive or inexperienced regarding the subject. Writing this has helped me come to terms with the changes in my life. It is the story of my stumbling in the dark before I discovered the true light of Islam. Read on if interested.
    I was born May 26th, 1985 in a small, culturally homogenous town in Upstate NY. Growing up I was the shy little blonde-haired blue-eyed girl that everyone adored. I always got what I wanted. My parents loved me. I was surrounded by friends. I was happy. I guess you could say I had the perfect American life. However, around the end of 8th grade, the storm clouds started rolling in.
    Then came the rain. Slowly at first, then in a downpour. I became increasingly depressed, withdrawn, and plagued by extreme anxiety. I was losing my friends, gaining weight, and constantly fighting with my parents. No longer did i wish to leave the house, or talk to anyone, as these problems intensified my already high tendencies toward shyness.. All these things going wrong made me hate myself, with a passion.
    "Why is this happening to me?" Screamed a thunderous voice in my head. "I'm supposed to be having the perfect life, just like everyone else! I should be out shopping in a mall surrounded by friends in a belly shirt and low-rise designer jeans! But instead im just sitting on my ass in my room, getting fatter and fatter and hating myself. What the heck is wrong with me?!"
    It came to the point that I did not want to live anymore. So why not just take my own life? This life is worthless anyway. Sadly, this logic made perfect sense at the time. However, I was lucky enough to have people around me who were concerned enough to get me help. I was involuntarily committed to 4 different psychiatric hostpitals over a period of two years. I was on 6 different medications. Anti-psychotics, anti-depressants, you name it, I probably took it. However, with what little strength and hope I had left, I made one last desperate attempt to heal myself.
    Unable to find comfort in anything during this dark hour, I felt that the only solice I could find was in God. "Hey, maybe this is the chance for Him to prove to ME that He does exsist! I thought with new found excitement. "Maybe he can cure me!" I intended to find him, but unfortunately, being the naive teenager I was, I made the costly mistake of assuming that " finding God" and "finding the church" were the same thing.
    I came from a family that was Catholic (I myself was originally baptized Roman Catholic) but had stopped going to church. I'm not exactly sure why. As a result, none of us kids grew up with even a basic understanding of who exactly God was. Nonetheless, my father was happy to take me to worship at St. Marys church, a rather square looking building a few blocks away from my house.
    Now, I don't really think its right to launch into a rant on Catholicism and Christianity in general, so let me sum up those three months of spending Sundays in church. They didnt help me one bit. I didn't feel any closer to God. I didn't understand or agree with a lot of the church doctrine, and ended up very confused about God and religion.
    "Why has God done such horrible things to me?" I wondered, disallusioned and perplexed. "I have always been a good person, and I come from a good family. Numerous people have told me that I am talented and smart. So WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THIS?!" Still in the grips of severe clinical depression, I was faced with two choices. 1: Believe in a God who hates me, and by whom I am confounded. Or 2: Reject God all together. Sadly, I chose the latter.
    In the 10th grade, I slowly pulled out of my depression. (al-hamdullah) Things seemed to be getting better. I returned to school, made some friends, and even lost some weight. I accelled in my academic endeavors, and graduated in the top 15% of my class. And as for this "God" guy, I truly had come to believe that ignorance was bliss.
    However, my happiness was superficial, to say the least. Something still wasn't quite right. Something I couldnt put my finger on. I felt full on the outside, but suprisingly empty on the inside. I still had trouble likeing myself, and was still haunted by thoughts of suicide. I had no idea about my life's direction, nor its purpose. So what did I do? I attempted to fill the void with material things. But the cheap happiness I got from expensive clothes, jewlery, and other fineries was but a poor substitute for what I really needed.
    What I needed was God, and bad! But of course, I was blind to this. I didnt really come to view religion with any sort of contempt, but over my almost 3 years as an athiest/agnostic, I firmly believed in the old communist line "religion is the opium of the masses."As far as I was concerned, all religions were equal. Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism.... they were all man-made, cult-like, and only served to cloud and misguide the mind. Sure they made you feel nice. But isnt it better to have your mind free to think for itself and discover your real purpose in life, rather becoming a zombie and a slave to religion? I wasnt about to spend my life in this disallusioned state.
    How Ignorant I was! If I had only known then what I know now, I probably wouldnt be writing this extensive essay. Of course I had learned about Islam in school, along with all the other major world religions. In fact, I still remembered some of its "pillars" from 9th grade history. But I had viewed it only objectively and academically, not really giving it a second thought. Then, 9/11. I had never heard of such crazy people in my life! Osama bin Laden, the Taliban, Al-Qaeda! What in the world were these whackos doing?! I didnt associate them with Islam, as I logically figured that they were messed up, since the killing of innocent people isnt condoned by any religion.

    My path to change started in August 2004, while I was attending college in Buffalo NY, a much larger and ethnically diverse city compared to the little white-washed village where I grew up.By this time, I was more mature, as well as confident in myself. I hated the college scene. The parties, the drugs, the scantilly clad women. By this time, I was more mature, as well as confident in myself. I had become friends with a muslim who understood my plight. I confided in her that I was looking to be in a serious relationship with a good man. So, she introduced me to one of her Muslim friends. We talked over the phone for about a month, before finally meeting and taking the vow of marriage.
    From the moment *name witheld* and I met eachother, we have been practically inseperable. Its like we were meant to be together. Staying around him 24/7, I immediately noticed the immense peace devotion to Allah had given him. I'll admit that I have always been intrigued by the Muslim culture and way of life, but never really cared to learn about Islam itself. I asked him a lot of questions on the subject, which he was more than happy to answer. I still was unsure about God's exsistance, but listened with an open mind. I kept him awake late asking him questions about God and Islam, as if I was some little kid asking my mother questions about why the sky is blue and why the grass is green. I would go to bed feeling warm and happy. The more I learned, the more I wanted to know. So I started doing some research on my own.
    When I read the first article on Islam, I felt totally blown away, as If I had gotten hit by a frieght train. All of the sudden, everything about God, the universe, and life made perfect sense to me. I was struck by how incredible simple yet deeply profound the religion was. I have always been a thinking person and here, for the first time, was something that was logical and flawless in its reasoning. It lead me to believe that God (Allah) really does exsist. Islam really was the true religion!!! I couldn't believe it. From then on, I read non-stop.Sometimes being up till 4am and forgetting to do my homework (oops!). I had never been so obsessed with anything in my life. But I did not make the decision to convert until one night, where I came to this startling revelation.
    In the past I had expressed anger, even hatred. toward God. I constantly was asking why He had made me suffer so much. I now realized I had suffered simply because He had willed it. But I also realized that He had willed something else, something that was perhaps a million times more important. He had brought me out of the dark and willed me to the right path, the path of Islam!
    After coming to this epiphany at the odd hour of 2am, I immediately woke my husband up and told him I wanted to convert. Of course he was thrilled, but since the poor man was half asleep, he told me to wait till the next day. And on that day, November 15th, 2004, I was born again. After saying the shehadda with the utmost belief and conviction, I broke down crying in my husband's arms. I was Muslim! I couldn't believe I was Muslim! I have never been more proud of myself.
    Now, more than a year later, I couldn't be happier. In submission to Allah, I have found the inner peace I have always longed for.

    To all who have read this, thank you.

    Ive come so far, but still have a ways to go.

    Ma'salaama,

    Emily
    chat Quote

  18. #94
    sapphire's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Umme Umaymah
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jul 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    2,822
    Threads
    2
    Rep Power
    121
    Rep Ratio
    37
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    subhanaallah.....9/11 seems to be a turning point for many towards islam rather than away!!!!
    Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    wwwislamicboardcom - Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!
    chat Quote

  19. Report bad ads?
  20. #95
    swanlake's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2005
    Location
    London
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    318
    Threads
    43
    Rep Power
    117
    Rep Ratio
    20
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    sis emmy

    Thank you so much for posting your journey. We do read it sis and alhamdulilaah that Allah guided you.
    chat Quote

  21. #96
    Sis_ReNa's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Location
    usa, minnesota
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    148
    Threads
    9
    Rep Power
    112
    Rep Ratio
    15
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    mashAllah that is beauitful sis welcome to islam and alhamduillah you found Allah, Allah uh Akbar, May Allah bless, guide, protect you in this life and in the next ameen
    Salam walakum
    REna
    chat Quote

  22. #97
    Umm Yoosuf's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Al-Athariyyah
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jan 2005
    Gender
    Female
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    4,851
    Threads
    193
    Rep Power
    132
    Rep Ratio
    50
    Likes Ratio
    1

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    format_quote Originally Posted by sapphire View Post
    subhanaallah.....9/11 seems to be a turning point for many towards islam rather than away!!!!
    Subhanallah ture

    Sister Hana & Emily Welcome to Islam. Alahmdulilaah Allah has guided you.

    Very interesting story
    chat Quote

  23. #98
    Takumi's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Senior Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jul 2005
    Location
    Luxurious loft with my Macintosh
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    633
    Threads
    4
    Rep Power
    114
    Rep Ratio
    29
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    For how long does one carry the label revert?
    Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Takumi Nakashima
    WattaquLlah(a) wa yu'allimukumuLlah(u)
    (Be Mindful of Allah and He will teach you)
    chat Quote

  24. #99
    Khattab's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    Full Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Dec 2004
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    454
    Threads
    41
    Rep Power
    118
    Rep Ratio
    17
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Subhanallah Nice post Emmy! May Allah (SWT) grant you steadfastness upon the deen ameen.
    Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    "Lo! the Hour is surely coming, there is no doubt thereof; yet most of mankind believe not." (Al-Ghafir:59)
    chat Quote

  25. Report bad ads?
  26. #100
    Takumi's Avatar Full Member
    brightness_1
    IB Senior Member
    star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate star_rate
    Join Date
    Jul 2005
    Location
    Luxurious loft with my Macintosh
    Gender
    Male
    Religion
    Islam
    Posts
    633
    Threads
    4
    Rep Power
    114
    Rep Ratio
    29
    Likes Ratio
    0

    Re: Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    format_quote Originally Posted by Takumi View Post
    For how long does one carry the label revert?

    Since no one can answer my question. I suggest that the forum start addressing our brothers and sisters as muslim brothers and sisters or al akh or al ukht fil Islam.

    This is more appropriate because it's really a pain that even after 18 years of becoming muslim, people still designate you as revert even after you have memorized al Quran and finished your degree in Islamic Studies.

    Do we have to be Hamza Yusuf or Siraj Wahhaj to have our pre fix revert or convert dropped?

    By labelling you create an unseen barrier between your brothers.
    Last edited by Takumi; 01-19-2006 at 05:50 AM.
    Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!

    Takumi Nakashima
    WattaquLlah(a) wa yu'allimukumuLlah(u)
    (Be Mindful of Allah and He will teach you)
    chat Quote


  27. Hide
Page 5 of 34 First ... 3 4 5 6 7 15 ... Last
Hey there! Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here! Looks like you're enjoying the discussion, but you're not signed up for an account.

When you create an account, we remember exactly what you've read, so you always come right back where you left off. You also get notifications, here and via email, whenever new posts are made. And you can like posts and share your thoughts. Stories of Muslim Reverts! - Post yours here!
Sign Up

Similar Threads

  1. Replies: 17
    Last Post: 06-09-2019, 06:03 PM
  2. The ikhlaas - Reverts & Non-Muslim
    By theikhlaas in forum New Muslims
    Replies: 4
    Last Post: 01-26-2008, 08:10 AM
  3. United colors of Islam (stories for our new reverts)
    By جوري in forum Comparative religion
    Replies: 3
    Last Post: 04-15-2007, 02:44 AM
  4. Youngest Muslim Reverts in The World. Children in England
    By Helena in forum Islamic Multimedia
    Replies: 0
    Last Post: 04-10-2007, 04:02 PM
  5. Texas Muslim Reverts
    By MinAhlilHadeeth in forum Islamic Multimedia
    Replies: 3
    Last Post: 04-15-2006, 01:43 PM

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •  
create