This is my new diary-like series. I will keep adding things as time goes by.
Can two different faiths live together in harmony under the one roof? Yes I believe so, but only when there is mutual respect for one another. This is not always the case for me; I respect my family’s faith but don’t always get the respect back.
I really believe that it wasn’t until I became a Muslim that I truly appreciated my family and all the good they did for me due to the high status parents have in Islam and the respect one must give to them, including if they are non Muslims. My family has done so much for me and I truly thank my mother for teaching me to always have a good character and a good sense of humor which by the way are Islamic characteristics to have. However when it comes to religion, things haven’t been so smooth.
Lessons learnt from my family
- Don’t think they will accept a certain practice straight away, for example cooking halal meat for yourself, you wearing a scarf etc.
- Give them time to think about your new way of life and ask questions. The media has made things more challenging as was the case for me.
- Never ever impose your beliefs onto them and respect their faith
- I have to be very patient and sometimes introduce concepts gradually where appropriate, for example why I can’t drink alcohol or go to Church with them.
- I can’t explain to them everything overnight, but I try to go with the flow.
- Set a positive example, particularly with a good character – Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) is the best example and there is no one is history that has been documented as much as him. See http://www.amrkhaled.net/acategories/categories161.html
- I tried to compromise without breaking any Islamic rules – for example, they feel extremely uncomfortable me wearing the abaya when with them (the traditional Muslim garment of many countries) but I can wear for instance a cool kaftan (popular with both Muslims and non Muslims) or western style blouse or jacket and long skirt.
- When faced with many circumstances, it really made me reflect about how I think of God. Do I think he will just punish me for not being able to follow something 100% to the best of my ability or do I believe that he is Most Merciful and will forgive and that I really should focus on the bigger things and just continue to try my best (yes I know that small things add up and that I shouldn’t neglect them but I have seen people lose themselves over the small things and neglect the very important things).
