Converting.

So, if you know me personally then you know-- i wasn't born muslim. i'm writing this post to answer all the question's i've been getting about it && to clear the air on the whole situation.

I decided to convert to islam and become a muslim when i was at school back in march. this all came about in Dr. Booker's african american studies class. we were studying different scholars, parts of africa, the black family, etc. i became very interested in our lesson on islam and it's teachings. i have always loved Malcolm x && i was all about the black movement and black panthers-- even though all those things combined don't have to do with islam nor being a muslim. my cousin rasheeda is the only muslim i knew previous to my conversion && we didn't talk about it in as much depth as i'd wanted in class so, i ventured out on my own on the internet && in the library; researching.

After reading about the teachings and more about the religion, i made the decision to convert. everyday i was either in a book, talking to a muslim, or researching on the internet to become knowledgeable of the religion && the people. i have learned the prayers-- although not in arabic; && i took the steps i needed to take to convert. i just recently found two mosque in NC that i plan on attending when i'm home, but i'm definitely going to try to find one closer to school. now i'm not claiming to know everything, but i have a lot of people around me that are helping me the best that they can && teaching me what they know. i'm learning something new everyday.

Everyone has been asking me about my name-- Alula; it means first born. i know everyone isn't going to call me by Alula because it's new. i've been Brittany for twenty years && i have more than enough nicknames that people call me on campus or in the street, but it's all good. the hijab and i are in deep though && a difficult position [hijab is the covering worn on the head btw.] due to my mother && my friends. my dad can't stand me in a scarf or not having my hair done && i don't want to put anyone in an awkward position when they're out with me, but i feel like if i'm going to commit to the deen [religion] i need to go all the way. most muslimah's wear their hijab in pride, yet i have no one around me who understands that so they feel shamed or embarrassed to be seen with me wearing it. so for now i'm not wearing a hijab becuase i'm in my parent's home for the summer && i don't want to disrespect them as well as the fact that i have no money to buy hijab's online.

hopefully this answered/explained any questions or concerns. if there's more; feel free to ask.

-- B. Alula