Thinking About Embracing Islam - A Sister Seeking Guidance
Assalamu alaikum, I’m a woman exploring faiths and hoping for some advice. I’ve been looking into different spiritual paths and right now I’m studying Islam. I’ve read parts of the Qur’an and some hadiths, and something inside me is nudging toward becoming Muslim. It feels meaningful - I like the direct relationship with Allah and the way the Qur’an speaks about Jesus and guidance. Still, there are practical things holding me back and I’d like some honest input: - I drink alcohol socially. I know Islam forbids it, and giving it up would be difficult. Would it be acceptable to cut down gradually at first, as I adjust? - My social life includes mixed gatherings with men we’re just friends with. There’s nothing inappropriate going on, and these friendships matter to me. Is it really problematic to spend time with unrelated men if boundaries are respected? - I’m unsure about wearing hijab. I come from a Catholic background where covering hair isn’t required for most, so I don’t fully get why hair covering is emphasized. Is it possible to try hijab part-time at first until I feel comfortable? - I have a long-term boyfriend who is Christian and not interested in converting. We’re happy and stable but not married, and I don’t want to leave him for religion. Why is a non‑marital relationship viewed negatively, and wouldn’t a happy relationship be better than an unhappy marriage? Given all this, does it make sense for me to convert now? I’ve heard it’s better to be a sinful Muslim than a righteous non‑Muslim, but I worry about regretting a rushed decision. At the same time the pull toward Islam feels strong. Should I keep researching and taking my time, or consider entering the faith now and working through these changes gradually? Or would staying in my current Christian practice be wiser for my situation? Thanks for reading - sorry for the long message. I’d appreciate any sincere advice or personal experiences from sisters who’ve been through similar dilemmas.