A difficult turn - seeking guidance
Bismillah Assalamualaikum brothers and sisters. I hope you are all well. I’m a young Muslim brother going through a hard patch and I wanted to share my situation to get some perspectives, InshaAllah. About a year ago I was talking with a sister with sincere intentions toward marriage. At that time, Alhamdulillah, she appeared devoted and had the qualities I hoped for in a future wife. We mutually agreed to pause contact so we could focus on our studies and finish high school, knowing it’s better to avoid early private talking. We planned to spend about seven months apart to work on our deen and our character, and then revisit things when the time felt right. After that period, when boundaries loosened, I reestablished contact. What I learned crushed me. She hadn’t left abruptly but slowly drifted - doubts and criticisms grew until she ultimately abandoned belief and moved toward atheism. I feel strongly that Islam is the truth, and I’m convinced she’s mistaken. I worry her pride pushed her away from Allah SWT. So I’m at a crossroads. Since we went back to the ‘time-off’ arrangement I’ve been waiting for high school to end. I’ve spoken to a few people and gotten different advice - some say move on, others say consult. My heart keeps asking, “Can she set aside what’s leading her astray and return to the deen?” I’ve been making dua constantly and trying to be patient. My mind says give up, but my heart urges me to wait and put my trust in Allah SWT. I’m hoping hearing others’ viewpoints will help me see things more clearly. Should I follow my heart and rely on tawakkul? I’d appreciate sincere advice, duas, and any practical steps I can take. If anything in my summary was unclear, please ask. Jazakum Allahu khairan.