Feeling Torn Between Hijab and Life Experiences – Seeking Advice and Support
As-salamu alaykum dear sisters. I'm going through some emotional struggles about wearing the hijab and I hope you won't judge me for sharing my feelings. I've been wearing the hijab since I was young, by my own choice, and I truly respect my faith and the wisdom behind it. But lately, I've found myself wondering what life might be like without it. Alhamdulillah, I have been blessed with physical beauty-not to boast, but I’m grateful for it-and I don't want to misuse that blessing. Still, sometimes I feel like I might be missing out on certain experiences, career opportunities, relationships, or the kind of attention and connection from men that might be harder to come by while wearing the hijab. I see close family members, like my sister, who removed her hijab and seems to be exploring life in ways that feel more open to her, and it makes me question if I'm holding myself back. I also worry that in the future, I might regret not expressing myself more freely during my youth or connecting with people I'm attracted to. But I know that Islam guides us to cover, and I don't want to go against my faith or disappoint Allah. Still, this feeling of frustration is real. I feel caught between wanting to stay devoted to Allah and wanting to experience life fully-including love, attraction, and connection. I’m hoping to hear from sisters who have faced similar feelings or struggles with the hijab. Did removing it help, or was it more challenging? Any advice or shared experiences would mean a lot to me.