ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Daughters of Another Path (experience of American Women Choosing Islam) Accepting the Choice There are those families who were open and accepting to their daughter's choice to convert, especially after initial concerns were dealt with and the parents felt assurance that their daughters would be okay. +After my conversion, I presented myself wearing hijab. I explained myself to them. I never worried much about my family.

I knew they would accept what I was happy with. I had one brother who would tease me and tell me to take of my scarf. I think it was easy for me to become Muslim because I knew I could depend on my family not to turn their back. I explained and answered questions freely. I gave my dad the Qur'an to read. +My choice to be Muslim has not affected my relationship with my family of origin. My mother is glad that I am a more religious person. She is happy for me.

She doesn't know much about the Islamic religion, but she knows that I believe in the one and only God so she has been accepting of my conversion. We don't live close to my family of origin. When I came to Islam and told my parents, my father was understanding and supportive. My mother was apprehensive.

I feel she was apprehensive because of several factors: (1) her love for me and wanting the best for me; (2) the stereotypes associated with women's role in Islam; (3) a journey to Beirut [she made] when she was younger; and (4) a serious relationship she had with a Muslim man. I think my mom wanted me to be certain of all aspects of the religion before I made a decision.

Most mothers want the best for their children and want to protect them, and we all are aware of the attitude toward Islam in today's society. I would like to stress that not once did my mom not support me in my decision; she only voiced her concerns, which is just what I was looking for when I told my parents-questions, concerns, and comments. +Unfortunately we haven't yet been able to visit my family in Switzerland (however, it is in our plans).

They had to come to the United States when I converted and married. Once they had reassured themselves that I was okay, that my husband was lovable, they accepted my decision. Questions abound however. We probably will be talking a great deal. My prayer is to have my father become Muslim, since in his heart he already is. +1 have no family of origin except a brother whom I haven't seen since long before my conversion.