Seeking advice as someone interested in Islam and a Muslim woman
Assalamu alaikum - I’m not Muslim right now, but I’m asking for some guidance. I’ve thought about reverting before because of how my friend lives her faith and because I want to fully accept Islam and join a supportive community. Another big reason is that I’ve fallen for a Muslim woman and I want to respect her and her beliefs. We met as friends online through gaming and have been talking for a while. I kept my feelings to myself until recently when she brought it up and it turned out we both feel the same. We click on so many things, we both understand struggles with mental health, and I just really enjoy talking to her about everything. I want to show her respect and wouldn’t flirt in any sexual way - I don’t want to rush anything. A bit about my past: I wasn’t raised Muslim, so I didn’t grow up following Islamic guidelines. I’ve had a previous partner (not a wife) and I have a child from that relationship. I don’t regret my experiences, but I want to learn how to move forward correctly now. I’ve seen advice suggesting the respectful way is to speak to her father to ask his permission before pursuing anything serious. That idea makes me nervous - because of my past I worry he won’t accept me, and I’m not sure how to even ask for his contact since we only know each other online. I’m serious about doing this in a halal way and I’m willing to embrace her way of life. I want to earn her family’s respect and follow the proper steps. Unless she tells me she’s not interested anymore, I’m determined to try - I just want to do it the right way. I’m planning to speak to my cousin who reverted to learn from her experience as well. I’d really appreciate practical advice: how to approach asking her family, how reverts who have a past handled this, and any steps I should take now to show sincerity and respect. I prefer solutions and real-life tips even if there are expected problems. I genuinely care about doing things properly so I can be with someone I’m falling for - sexuality isn’t what I’m focused on, I care about the right approach and about faith.