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Immediate conversion
By Kayla
My Path to Islam is rather non-conventional.
I read stories of some who journeyed for years to find their religion, and while these stories are often shockingly beautiful, they do not represent my experience.
At age 16, I was at a desperate point in my life. Filled with fear and anxiety, I was failing most of my classes in school, constantly fighting with my parents, feeling scared at night to the point of vomiting and crying everyday.
I knew that I needed to change my life. I started to read a book in school with Muslim characters. The book gripped me, and even though it was fictional, I felt something very strong.
How I Did It:
I almost immediately converted after starting to read the book. I didn't want to live another day without praying at sunset, without worshipping God and being part of a widespread Islamic community. There was not a single speck of doubt in my heart that this was the right thing to do.
I came into the religion blindly, with lots of passion and discipline, but little knowledge. As a result I made many mistakes in my practice at first, and sort of learned things as I went along. I do wish that I had taken some time to research before jumping right in.
But those first couple of weeks were absolutely the most vivid, beautiful times of my life. I remember running around with a new sort of energy, feeling incredibly alive. I took an English translation of the Qur'an with me everywhere I went, and couldn't go ten minutes without at least reading a line.
Eventually, this breathtaking passion settled down into a steady conviction that I had found something beautiful and was going to abide by it for the rest of my life.
Advice
Do take time to research Islam so that you can practice it properly and purely! At the same time, don't be overwhelmed by the wealth of "do's and dont's" you may discover when you do your initial research. Take things step by step and gradually it will come naturally to you.
-Take care of yourself when you start to fast for the first time. Drink lots of water and resist the urge to stuff yourself at the end of the day. Don't freak yourself out either, it will likely be a lot easier than you initially think.
Keep learning about Islam everyday. The journey is never over-there is always something new and beautiful
Reaction From Non-Muslim
Friends and Family Members Surprised by the suddenness of my conversion, but supportive
Changes I Had to Make in My Life
I had to view life as a chance to serve God.
A new viewpoint for me.
Holidays I celebrate Eid alone. Feel lonely sometimes, but joy and warmth too
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