Feeling unseen and unattractive - need some comfort, assalamu alaikum
Assalamu alaikum, this is a difficult thing to share but I need to get it out. I've worn the hijab for 10 years here in the West, and I choose to. It started when I was young and felt natural because of my upbringing, and as I grew older I understood it more and made it my own choice. Now I'm in my mid-20s and I often feel so unattractive. I notice people don't treat me the same and I can't tell if it's because of my hijab or if I'm just not pretty. People are polite at a surface level, but hardly anyone ever shows real interest or tries to get to know me deeper. I want to get married someday, but how can that happen if I seem unapproachable or if no one finds me attractive? No one has ever shown even a small amount of interest. Part of me feels guilty about wanting attention because we are taught not to crave a man's notice, but I'm only human and it hurts when I'm ignored. I feel torn between desire, guilt, and hopelessness. It makes me feel invisible and ugly. I have a personality - I'm bubbly, friendly, and I know I'd be a good wife and partner if anyone would give me the chance. I wish I knew what people think when they look at me. Do they see me as too modest to approach? Do they think I'm unattractive? I try to remember that my hijab is part of me for a reason, not just family pressure. I accept it as a test and a commitment to what Allah asked of me. I believe this life is temporary and that patience will be rewarded in Jannah. Still, living in a culture that often values the opposite of modesty is hard. I am a person and I deserve space. I am beautiful. So why do I feel so hideous and invisible, and why does it feel like men will never notice me? If anyone has advice, duas, or similar experiences, I'd be grateful. JazākAllāhu khayran.