Considering Embracing Islam – Looking for Some Advice and Guidance

Assalamu Alaikum everyone, I wanted to open up about my journey and ask for some advice as I’m seriously thinking about embracing Islam. My interest in Islam began when I was 11 years old, after a tragic attack on a mosque in my country. That event really touched me and made me want to learn more about Islam. Over time, I grew to appreciate what I was discovering. A few months after the attack, I started wearing the hijab out of respect, but later I felt I wasn’t doing it for the right reasons, so I took it off. Now, at 17, I feel drawn to Islam again. I’ve started reading the Qur’an out of curiosity, and a Muslim friend from school has been helping me understand things better. I also follow several Muslim content creators, especially those who reverted, and I feel connected to their stories. I’m also Māori, from Aotearoa New Zealand 🇳🇿, and I’m wondering if I can still be involved in my culture’s traditions like kapa haka (Māori performing arts) and tangihanga (funeral ceremonies) if I become Muslim. Some challenges I expect to face include: • Temptation & sexuality – I’m bisexual, and sometimes it’s hard to lower my gaze. • Friendships – Most of my close friends are male, and we’ve known each other for over 7 years. I’m unsure how to maintain those friendships while observing Islamic boundaries. • Halal food – My family isn’t religious and eats pork regularly (I personally haven’t eaten it for years). I recently found out my favorite snack is halal 😂, but I’m still learning which foods are allowed. If anyone has advice, personal experiences, or guidance to share, I’d be really grateful. JazakAllahu khair to everyone who takes the time to respond.