A Canadian-convert on Canadian Converts

Canada is a country rooted in migration and immigration. Canadian diversity, rather than blended into a melting pot, thrives in its own multiplicity. This diversity is reflected in each individual as well as each community. That, unfortunately, is an oft forgotten fact. The Canadian Muslim community, like the great Canadian community, includes a diversity of opinions. While as Canadians, we collectively stand on guard for the True North Strong and Free, our interpretations of strength, freedom and standing on guard is as diverse as our people. Similarly, as Muslims, we collectively testify that there is only One God worthy of … Continue reading A Canadian-convert on Canadian Converts

Ramadhan 2014–goals and hopes

A blessed month of Ramadhan to all; May peace and blessings of God be bestowed upon you. As The Holy Month of the revelation of the Holy Qu’ran begins, I wish to share what my experience will be fasting in my small town as well as some goals and hopes I have for this Holy Month. First, let me ask for forgiveness for my shortcomings and thank God for allowing me to see another Ramadhan. As most of you now know, Ramadhan is a personally special time for me as the Greatness of God and Islam was revealed to me … Continue reading Ramadhan 2014–goals and hopes

Follow the yellow brick road…

It is with the deepest regret that I announce that I will be leaving Canada’s capital city, my home for the past 5 years. I had dreamed of moving to Ottawa since I was 12 and I still consider Ottawa to be my dream city. So why am I leaving? Because I have to follow the yellow brick road, of course! Let me explain: in the past months my relationship has completely broken apart, I lost my job for the 2nd times in a year and my employment insurance was withheld far beyond the 3 weeks it should have taken. … Continue reading Follow the yellow brick road…

Guilt tripping, shame and honesty!

Some people have had at me for being “shameless”. Shamelessness is usually a derogatory term used to guilt people into silence. I don’t understand this concept. I don’t understand living in regrets: life happens, we make mistakes, we ask for forgiveness and we move on — hopefully with the intention not to repeat our mistakes. I am not going to say that I have absolutely no regret and I am not particularly proud of some moments of my life. However, there is no use to denying that it is, indeed, my life and while it was not all glitter and … Continue reading Guilt tripping, shame and honesty!

Muslim men make my hijab haraam

I’ve talked a few posts back about the experience of being female and being subjected to hoot, hollers and howling: it bothers me… a lot! More recently, a friend discussed her desire to stop wearing hijab. Her reason? She has received more unsolicited comments on her appearance from men, in the form of cat calling and overt sexual interest, since wearing it than she has without. Some people were quick to blame her attitude, stating that she must be giving signs, opening herself up to it; others told her that hijab did in fact bring more attention on her than … Continue reading Muslim men make my hijab haraam