Keeping My Iman Quiet at Home - Anyone Else?
Assalamu alaykum. I wanted to share something and see if anyone else can relate. I recently reverted to Islam after being raised Catholic - I’m from the Philippines where most people are Catholic, and my family ranges from very devout to nonbelieving. I’ve been struggling with keeping my faith hidden because my lifestyle used to be so different. I honestly feel like I’m a better person since embracing Islam, but I’m afraid to be open about it. My uncle, who I love like a second father, has said ignorant things about Islam and didn’t understand the difference between religion and culture. When I tried to explain, he just brushed me off, which made me scared to tell others in my family. They’ve often acted like Catholicism is the only right way and can be dismissive of Muslims. For now I pray quietly in my room and try to practice modestly without drawing attention. I’ve stopped eating pork even though it’s in so many Filipino dishes - I even tried it once after reverting because I didn’t want to reveal anything, but I didn’t enjoy it. I don’t feel I can fully live as a Muslim while I’m still at home, so I’m waiting for the day I can move out and practice openly without hiding. JazakAllahu khayr for reading - any advice or similar experiences would mean a lot.