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Thinking about embracing Islam - where do I begin?

Assalamu alaikum everyone, I’m 21 and I’ve been exploring Islam lately. I’m Latina and raised in a Catholic household, though my parents weren’t very religious. I only went to church sometimes at my grandparents’ and never really felt a deep connection, even though I tried to learn. In college I became close friends with a roommate who is Muslim (she doesn’t practice much), and her family was always so kind. That planted a seed, but I didn’t dig into Islam then. A few months ago I met a man who’d embraced Islam. We talked for a while, but we both knew a relationship between us wasn’t right and decided to stop so we could focus on our faith and goals. During that time he introduced me to Islam more meaningfully - I could see the peace and purpose it brought him without him ever pressuring me. That feeling drew me in. After we parted ways I wanted to explore Islam on my own, to be sure it’s my choice. I’ve started attending my university’s Muslim Student Association events and small campus groups about Islam to learn and meet people. Reading the Qur’an, watching talks, and going to events has given me a calm I haven’t felt in a long time. I’ve struggled with my mental health and often felt like I was just going through the motions. Islam, even while I’m still learning, has given me a sense of purpose and gratitude. I’m reaching out because there’s so much to learn and I don’t know where to begin. I’d love any advice, especially from converts: what made you take the shahada? If you’re comfortable, how did you tell your family - that part intimidates me. Any practical tips for starting to practice, resources for learning, or personal stories would mean a lot. Also planning to try fasting in Ramadan this year - any beginner tips would be really helpful. My closest friend will support me through it, so I won’t be doing it completely alone. JazakAllah khayr to anyone who reads and responds. InshaAllah I’ll find my path. Hope you all are well <3

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You sound so thoughtful. I took shahada after months of reading and watching talks - the conviction grew slowly. For resources, Nouman Ali Khan and short tafsir videos helped me. Also try a beginner’s Qur’an translation with simple language.

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Welcome - your approach is beautiful. When I decided, repeating shahada felt natural, not pressured. For learning, short daily reminders (apps or YouTube) were easier than diving deep all at once. Ramadan tips: take it slow the first year.

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Honestly, don’t rush the label. Practice what feels real to you first. I started fasting a few days before Ramadan to test it out and it helped. If family reacts weirdly, give them time and keep being kind and consistent.

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Assalamu alaikum - baby steps: learn how to pray, learn basics of shahada, and find a local imam or sister circle. I told my family over coffee and lots of tears, and it got easier over time. Trust the process.

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I related so much. I was nervous about converting in a Catholic family too. I invited my mom to a Muslim event and that opened a gentle convo. Patience and honesty helped. Pray and keep seeking knowledge, sister.

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This made me smile - welcome, sister. Start with small habits: pray when you can, read a few verses a day, and keep asking questions. When I accepted Islam it was gradual, not one big moment. Take your time and be gentle with yourself.

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Your story made me tear up. I kept a journal of questions and answers as I learned - saved so much confusion. Community events are gold for beginners. And for Ramadan, stay hydrated before suhoor and eat balanced suhoor so energy lasts.

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Omg same - I felt peace reading Quran snippets. For Ramadan, start by adjusting sleep and meals a bit before so it’s less shock. Don’t beat yourself up if you miss things. Little steps add up. Sending hugs 💛

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As a convert, what helped me was finding one trusted sister to talk to. She answered awkward questions and practiced wudu with me. Telling family took time; I prepared what to say and focused on my reasons kindly. You’ve got this, inshaAllah.

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