As salamu alaykum dear sister,

 

Shokran for writing to our live session.  I am sorry to hear the difficulties you are going through with your parents and sibling due to your reverting to Islam.  It is a common issue many reverts face.  Often times, a family needs time to accept that their child has reverted to Islam especially if that family is practicing a religion. It is not an easy process in some situations.  Sister, the best example you can offer of your dedication to Islam (opposed to it being anattention-gettingg change) is to live our Islamic principles in your every day life.  Along with our duties to Allah, our moral values and convictions, this includes kindness, patience, and tolerance. You should be kind to your family sister and patient with their misplaced anger and confusion.  After all, this was probably a big shock to them and they do not know how to deal with it.  Additionally, they have probably heard many false lies and horrible things about Islam on the news, in other media, and maybe even from their friends and religious place of worship.

 

You state you are not trying to “convert” them, however you can educate them on what a Muslim is by being a good example in your conduct and treatment of them.  Insha’Allah, they will see the changes in you for the positive and may one day come into an acceptance. Sister,m your parents do love you, they are just confused, angry and probably scared.  As far as being bullied by them, as I do not know to what extent this is happening but if it is such a condition that harms you, please do look into other living arrangements.

 

You state you are not married due to not being accepted as a Muslim, if I am understanding you correctly.  Sister, please forgive me, but this does not make sense to me. As a Muslim woman, a Muslim man would be your choice as a marriage partner.  I kindly suggest dear sister that you if you have not already, seek out Muslim friendships in your community, go to the Masjid, and engage in Islamic events and activities.  By building up an Islamic foundation socially and educationally, it will insha’Allah, provide you with solid supports.  Our sisters are a great source of strength and comfort. Your friendships with other Muslim sisters will prove to be most treasured in your journey in Islam.

 

Insha’Allah, as you incorporate more of your Islamic attributes at home dealing with your family, you will come from a position of security and peace as opposed to a position of defense.  Insha’Allah, your family will also “fall back” and adopt a more accepting and peaceful approach.

 

Stay close to Allah sister, and seek His mercy, guidance and protection throughout your journey in Islam.  We wish you the best.