Embracing Islam

I was brought up in middle class England within a semi-religious family
and I attended sunday school as a child. I also remember that I enjoyed
singing in the church choir until my voice broke in my early teens.

During
my early twenties faith became secondary, as I was too busy enjoying
myself and the 70's were all about drink, drugs and rock and roll.
There were times when I did think about religion but these were few and
far between. I always did however, believe that something or someone
had created mankind.

I was going through a painful divorce in
the early 90's when a chance meeting brought me into contact with an
asian guy which was to change my life forever. My new found friend
Saleem, invited me regularly to his house where his wife prepared these
fabulous meals and I will never forget the smell of those wonderful
eastern spices.

It was during one of these visits that I was
introduced to his father who was a profoundly religious man. After he
had offered his maghrib prayer that particular evening, Saleem's father
and I became engaged in conversation which eventually was to lead to
religion and Islam. I remember asking him many questions and
he
was very forthcoming, nothing was ever too much trouble. He explained
that Islam contrary to what most in the west think, "Is a religion of
tolerance and love."

During subsequent visits and at every
opportunity over the months that followed I would ask him more
questions. Then one day he presented me with a copy of the english
translated Koran by M.M. Picktall. I have treasured this since he gave
it to me (all that time ago) and when I started to read, things became
so much clearer. The answers I had been searching for all my life were
in this divine revelation from Allah.
(swt) and I knew in my heart
that Islam was the chosen path for me. That following friday after
jumma prayer I recited the "shahada". Allah (swt) helps me every day of
my life and guides me. Do I always make the right choices, no? I make
mistakes but I pray that he will give me forgiveness as I strive to
strengthen my deen daily.

My advice to anyone contemplating
embracing Islam is that if at all possible find a mentor. Someone, who
will support and guide you on the path you are about to undertake.
Remember, that Islam isn't just a religion but a complete way of life
and many things are about to change forever. You will need a strong
support system to help you through otherwise you may feel isolated.

If you cannot find a muslim community or someone willing to help locally
there are resources on the internet including this particular website.
Inshallah, you will prevail.