Salamo Aleikom
About myself: Reverted to Islam 5 years ago. (2 months before 9-11). Same day I reverted began hijab.
Married 1.5 years ago.
About reverting:
Read Autobiography of Malcolm X. I figured, if a man can go from being a drug dealer to respected community leader (although misguided), then find the true Islam. If Allah can do all this for this man, surely he could elevate me from the situation I was in.
After reading Malcolm X I wanted to learn more about Islam. Bought an English translation of "Koran" (Penguin press edition). Despite less than ideal translation, the general idea came through, and had an overwhelming urge to learn more and become Muslim. Tried calling phone book of Arab sounding names.
Called numbers in phone book "Hello, are you Muslim?". First few calls the person hung up. In retrospect, the person on the other line probably thought I was calling to harass him/her. Finally, a gentleman responded "Yes, I am, how may I help you?"
An outpour of emotions to a complete stranger...."Please, I want to be Muslim, can't you help me? Don't hang up, I swear, I'm not crazy!"
Subhan'allah, the man on the other line was an Imam for a local prison. His main job description is teaching inmates about Islam. Allah SWT guided me to the person most suitable for helping me. He had all the basic info on Islam.
Two days later after reading about 5 pillars, got a phone call from local dentist office, (had filled out application 2 months earlier on a whim while waiting for an appointment). I figured this must be a sign. Gave my current employer 48 hours notice and accepted the job. Was introduced to dentists who, coincidentally were Muslim. Spoke to one of them about arranging for shahadah in masjid. A week later took shahadah at salatul juma3.
Since then have had many ups and downs.Alhamdu'lillah, the ups greater than downs. The rest of my life story I'll save for another day, insha'allah
Jazak'allakhyran for your kind attention.
Salamo aleikom wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh
About myself: Reverted to Islam 5 years ago. (2 months before 9-11). Same day I reverted began hijab.
Married 1.5 years ago.
About reverting:
Read Autobiography of Malcolm X. I figured, if a man can go from being a drug dealer to respected community leader (although misguided), then find the true Islam. If Allah can do all this for this man, surely he could elevate me from the situation I was in.
After reading Malcolm X I wanted to learn more about Islam. Bought an English translation of "Koran" (Penguin press edition). Despite less than ideal translation, the general idea came through, and had an overwhelming urge to learn more and become Muslim. Tried calling phone book of Arab sounding names.
Called numbers in phone book "Hello, are you Muslim?". First few calls the person hung up. In retrospect, the person on the other line probably thought I was calling to harass him/her. Finally, a gentleman responded "Yes, I am, how may I help you?"
An outpour of emotions to a complete stranger...."Please, I want to be Muslim, can't you help me? Don't hang up, I swear, I'm not crazy!"
Subhan'allah, the man on the other line was an Imam for a local prison. His main job description is teaching inmates about Islam. Allah SWT guided me to the person most suitable for helping me. He had all the basic info on Islam.
Two days later after reading about 5 pillars, got a phone call from local dentist office, (had filled out application 2 months earlier on a whim while waiting for an appointment). I figured this must be a sign. Gave my current employer 48 hours notice and accepted the job. Was introduced to dentists who, coincidentally were Muslim. Spoke to one of them about arranging for shahadah in masjid. A week later took shahadah at salatul juma3.
Since then have had many ups and downs.Alhamdu'lillah, the ups greater than downs. The rest of my life story I'll save for another day, insha'allah
Jazak'allakhyran for your kind attention.
Salamo aleikom wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh
