Auto-translated

Struggling to Connect Despite the Call

As-salamu alaykum. I've been exploring Islam for quite a while now, though I admit most of my learning has come from short videos online. I'm blessed to live in a place with a sizeable Muslim community, but the wider area leans heavily conservative, which adds its own layer of unease. My background is Latino-born in Mexico, raised here. For most of my life, I was really outgoing and had a wide circle, including many sisters I considered dear friends. Around 2017, I stepped back from almost all of them because their lifestyles revolved around drinking, smoking, and things that didn't align with where I was heading. Since then, I've thrown myself into work, basically seven days a week for years, with only rare breaks. Muslim communities seem so warm and close-knit, but I've become pretty antisocial; I honestly prefer my own space now. I don't date, smoke, or drink, but my routine feels so plain that it makes reaching out and building new friendships really hard. Plus, working all week even scares me away from attending Jummah, which I know is a must. I'm at a crossroads: I want to take my Shahada and eventually marry, which requires going to the mosque and getting that certification, but I'm so accustomed to solitude I fear I can't fully commit. Living in this political climate also makes simply going outside nerve-wracking-I only leave when absolutely necessary. It's a frightening time to be here, honestly. My thoughts are a bit scattered, but I feel trapped. TLDR: My work schedule and antisocial nature make me doubt I can meet my Islamic obligations. Any advice?

+26

Comments

Share your perspective with the community.

Auto-translated

I get it, the solitude becomes a comfort zone. Maybe reach out to a local imam online first? Eases you in without the big social jump. The shahada is between you and Allah-the rest will follow insha'Allah.

+2
Auto-translated

Man, your story hits close to home. The isolation is real, but trust me, taking that first step to the masjid will break the cycle. The community is waiting for you, not judging you. May Allah make it easy for you.

+2

Add a new comment

Log in to leave a comment