Assalamu alaykum - finding my way to Islam while navigating white culture
Assalamu alaykum sisters, I’ve recently been learning about Islam during some travels and feel more drawn to Allah each day. I’ve begun practicing many things, but I don’t yet feel like I’ve fully embraced being a revert. I’m a 26-year-old white woman from Australia. Since returning home I’ve felt a bit uneasy - there aren’t many Muslims where I live and sometimes Australians can be racist. People stare when I dress modestly and wear a hijab (which I truly enjoy), and while I can brush some of it off, I’m hesitant to wear it around family or friends because I’m not ready to answer their questions. Even my husband is atheist and has said he’s uncomfortable, though he’s trying to be understanding. I find it hard to locate prayer rooms; often in shopping centres they just put me in a corporate meeting room. I’m not confident praying in public, like in a park, so I usually pray alone at home in my bedroom. I don’t yet feel “Muslim enough” to attend the mosque. I don’t want pressure to rush a formal conversion, and I’d rather not have to discuss things with men about this. Allah has been so patient with me and I want to continue gently on this path because it feels right. I’d really appreciate any advice. If there are any hijabis or sisters in the Brisbane or Gold Coast area who could spend some time with me, I would be very grateful. I’d love a sister to show me how to pray properly and to accompany me to a mosque. I don’t have Muslim friends here and sometimes feel quite isolated. Jazakum Allahu khairan for any support or tips.