As-salāmu ʿalaykum - Islam through my own eyes

As-salāmu ʿalaykum. I’ve been Muslim since childhood and lately I feel like I finally understand what Islam means to me, so I wanted to share and talk about it. I’ve questioned my faith many times and at points even felt distant from it. I wouldn’t call myself extremely religious - I tend to keep religion and the rest of life separate. To me, the Qur’an can feel vague in places, and maybe that’s intentional so we interpret and find meaning in our own way. There are verses people label as “violent” or “immoral,” and I get why some read them that way. But putting things in context often softens how harsh they seem. Islam is fundamentally a religion of peace. When people or nations use the name of Islam to justify corruption or violence, that’s their corruption, not the faith itself. I’m truly sorry for anyone who’s suffered from that distorted version of Islam - religious trauma is real. I also see a lot of hatred coming from fellow Muslims. Please, don’t hate one another. Spread love and understanding. Before blaming someone, try to give them the benefit of the doubt. Whether believer or not, we’re all humans created by Allah, and I love each one of us for our differences. Not believing doesn’t automatically mean someone is condemned - being a good person goes a long way. Do good, and goodness will come back. To be Muslim, at the core, is to believe in Allah - that’s the foundation. Let’s stop shaming people for their sins; that’s between them and Allah. Allah is Most Merciful, and no soul is truly hated by Him. Allah does not hate, so we should not harbor hatred. Sometimes our thoughts conflict with what the Qur’an teaches, and that’s okay - Allah knows we are human. Morality isn’t something He force-feeds us; we have conscience to know right from wrong. Allah gives guidance and warns of consequences if we choose wrongdoing. I’m bothered by some Muslim influencers who spread hate. We need more compassion in the world, not more bitterness disguised as “faith.” Arrogance and corruption are what the Qur’an warns against, not humility and love. If you’d like, share your experiences or thoughts on what I’ve said - I’d love to hear them 🫶🏽🫀