I remember perfectly that day as I anxiously walked down to the intimidating middle school I knew for years. I was in for my last year of middle school in eighth grade. I had entered with a new feeling that day; it wasn’t exactly terror, but a bold feeling as if I had defeated all of my fears with one simple choice. My insides churned with nervousness…

When non-Muslims swear while I am around, they’ll sometimes notice me and apologize while I smile on and say, “It’s okay.” It touches me when they apologize and adjust their language while conversing with me or around me. It is funny, though. They think that a hijabi will be offended if she hears swear words. If only they knew that I have witnessed people from my own Ummah doing the same, from three-year olds to other hijabi friends.

A few months ago, I was waiting for the dentist, wondering why they were taking so long to call my name after the appointed time. The answer came about forty-five minutes after my appointment – they hadn’t recognised me even though I was seated right in front of the receptionist.

I want my daughter to know that we worship none but Allah and seek only His approval. I bow before Allah and I hope that one day my daughter will do the same, insha’Allah.

As I thoughtfully gaze out of the window of my room, the beautiful and soft voice of the Adhan stirs me from my silent reverie. I hurry to perform my wudhu and pray Salah, although I feel sad to break from my moment of reflection, but I know that Allah always comes first before anything.