The Blessings of Being Muslim: Finding True Happiness
Salam everyone. I was born in a non-Muslim country, in an area with barely any Muslims, to a family that isn't practicing. I constantly face temptations from the haram that's all around me, and there's pressure and even oppression from people and the government when I openly practice my faith. I've been mocked, harassed, and threatened. But you know what? I wouldn't give up being Muslim for even a second! Being Muslim is truly amazing! It solves so many problems that people in the West struggle with. I'm healthier than my peers because I don't drink, smoke, or do drugs. That saves me a ton of money too-no wasting cash at clubs or on cheap thrills. I'm free from STDs since I don't sleep around. I don't deal with constant heartbreaks and drama from casual relationships. And I don't fall into despair over existential crises! I know where I came from, what my purpose is, and where I'm going. I don't feel like I'm missing out on anything. Everything this corrupted world shows off as 'freedom' is just a cheap imitation of what a Muslim truly has. No drug can relax me like prayer can. No hookup will ever satisfy me like marriage will. No amount of money will bring the happiness that giving zakat does. All of my problems have answers and guidance to fall back on, along with 1400 years of people like me navigating an imperfect world. Keeping the sunnah refreshes my body and mind, and I have a good chuckle when I see non-Muslims 'discovering' the benefits of mindfulness, meditation, fasting, etc. Every health trend they rave about, I've already been doing in the best form by emulating our beloved Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. I love wearing clothes that identify me as a Muslim. I wear a kufi, keffiyeh, and thobe, and keep a big bushy beard. I'm always fully covered, and even though I'm confident and proud of my body, I don't wear those tight clothes and shorts I see other men wear to show off their muscles. When people see me in public, they know who I am and what I believe in. The cowards who attack and harass our sisters don't do it in my presence, because they're afraid of those who only fear Allah. Sometimes it feels like there's an agenda online to post misery and doom and gloom. Many people feel frustrated and trapped. But remember, this world is like a prison for the believer! But our sentence is short, my brothers and sisters. The condition of the Muslim is like someone jailed for 5 years, being envious of lifers and death row inmates who have couches, TVs, and game consoles in their cells! May Allah grant us all paradise. As-salamu alaikum. TLDR: The only things you miss out on by being Muslim are things that are bad for you-instant gratification and short-term pleasure with long-term pain. I've found great peace in Islam, despite the struggles of being a visible Muslim in a hostile environment.