How did Islam change my perspective on life?
The transformation I’ve experienced since embracing Islam has been profound. Reflecting on who I am now compared to who I was before, I can hardly believe the changes. I never imagined I would be where I am today or become the person I am now. Alhamdulillah, I am deeply grateful for this journey.
From the moment I embraced Islam, some changes were immediate, while others unfolded over the first couple of years. I know I am calmer than I was before. I would get angry and frustrated over things that were not in my control almost daily and would bother me several days later. Today, I handle life’s challenges with far more patience, though I’m not sure my husband would completely agree! If only he had known me ten years ago—he’d surely appreciate the difference.
Islam has brought positivity into my life. The Islamic teachings have opened my eyes to countless blessings, so many that I could never fully count them. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the importance of family, the significance of cleanliness in Islam, and the reasons behind certain prohibitions (haram) that Muslims are advised to avoid. Most importantly, I’ve learned that prayer is a powerful tool that will resolve any problem we face.
Since 2020, I’ve been taking private Islamic classes twice a week. A couple of years into my journey, I realized that any question I had—no matter how complex—always found its answer in Islam. When I say ANY question, I mean it. The answers are there, sometimes right in front of our eyes, and other times requiring a little bit more digging or guidance from someone more knowledgeable. The key is to approach with an open heart and mind. We often seek complex explanations, but in reality, the truth is usually simple.
REMEMBER: Islam equals simplicity.
When we complicate things, we obscure the answers and drive ourselves to unnecessary frustration. Islamic teachings are designed to be clear and accessible.
Understanding why Islam seems strict
At the beginning of my journey, I often heard people describe Islam as a religion full of strict rules. Friends would comment that praying five times a day must interfere with daily life. But it doesn’t. You make time for Allah SWT, and He makes time for you—simple as that. I had a friend saying it would be hard to give up ham. I remember laughing, thinking, Is that really all you’re concerned about? However I forgot about the most important part, that people often focus on the negatives, rather than the positives. Imagine you have someone telling you about a person ten good things but they also mention one bad thing. And all you remember is the one bad thing about that particular person. I guess this is just human nature and that’s how we think, unfortunately.
THE PURPOSE BEHIND ISLAMIC STRICTNESS
The hardest questions I faced were, “Why Islam?” and “Why is it so strict?” I used to say it’s a way of life, a different lifestyle, but that explanation never seemed to suffice. I struggled to put into words the deep sense of peace and fulfillment I found in Islam. Then I heard an Islamic lecture that perfectly captured what I was feeling, and I’d like to share that understanding with you.
As Muslims, we know that this life is a test from Allah SWT. Some might ask, “How do you know life is a test?” Well, think of it like school—where you must pass exams to move on to the next level until you graduate. Life follows a similar pattern: we are born with nothing, learn to walk and talk, attend school, find a job, get married, and start a family. This cycle repeats itself, often without us even questioning it. If life were truly in our hands, we might choose to do these things in a different order, but we don’t. This repetition is a test, one that prepares us for what comes next.
Is Islam really strict?
At first, Islam is the true religion. Yes there are many rules but if you view them as an obstacle then the harder it will be for you to see the positive side to it. In a lot of cases we are able to recognize Muslims by how women are dressed or how Muslims greet each others correct? The best way I can compare it is to kids from top prestigious private schools. Many top private schools have strict dress codes or uniforms. Personal grooming is emphasized, with students often expected to maintain neat hairstyles, clean nails, and generally tidy appearances. They are generally well-mannered and respectful towards others. Despite their achievements, there is often an emphasis on humility, with students being taught to respect others. Private schools often have diverse student bodies, and students are typically exposed to and respectful of different cultures, languages, and perspectives. When you see such a child you know he or she is from the TOP PRIVATE school.
As Muslims, we belong to the TOP RELIGION. Yes, we have rules, but so do private schools. The rules in Islam, like those in a top private school, are not meant to restrict us but to refine and guide us. They guide us to be the best versions of ourselves—spiritually, morally, and socially. Just as a school uniform is a symbol of discipline and unity, the modest dress in Islam is a symbol of our faith and values. It’s a way of living with dignity, self-respect, and consciousness of the one who created us.
Islam’s teachings are like the curriculum of a prestigious school—designed to shape individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also ethical, compassionate, and capable of leading with integrity. The rules around prayer, fasting, charity, and interactions with others are there to develop a strong character, just as the rigorous academic and behavioral standards in private schools are there to build disciplined and successful individuals.
Moreover, the diversity within the global Muslim community mirrors the diverse student bodies of these top schools. Muslims come from all corners of the world, bringing a rich blend of cultures, languages, and traditions, all united by a common faith. This diversity within unity is a strength, just as it is in a school environment, fostering a sense of brotherhood and shared purpose among Muslims.
So, when we follow the rules of Islam, we are not just adhering to a set of regulations. We are upholding a way of life that honors our place in the world and our responsibilities to ourselves, our communities, and to Allah SWT. Just as the student from a top private school carries their institution’s reputation with pride, Muslims carry the legacy of Islam with honor and dignity. The rules are not a burden but a path to excellence, leading us toward success in this life and the hereafter.