Veiled in the Bible Belt

My whole life, I knew I was different from every one else. I was told by my grandmother, who is an Orthodox Roman Catholic Puerto Rican, that God selected me to become a nun. Throughout grade school, middle school and well into high school, I was groomed and well versed in my vocation. Now, I would be lying if I said that I did not believe I was God's child because I have always felt His presence and Love. However, I was never able to reconcile the Christ story or all of the reckless devotion to various saints.

As the time drew nearer for me to enter the community, my questions and fears bubbled up, choking off my air and patience. I felt suffocated and unsteady. I proceeded to go on a 30-day water fast on my 18th birthday for guidance and direction. I knew that all I needed to do was seek out God's Will and He would make it apparent in my life.

By His divine mercy, I was allowed the opportunity to meet and share my life with a devout Muslim family. They permitted me to share their home on weeknights for study and reflections. It was no wonder that when I decided to begin personal fast, it was the season of Rahmadan.

Towards the end of Rahmadan, I went with the wife to the mosque for Jummah services and I heard for the first time the Shahada..." There is no God but God and Muhammad is his Messenger" I immediately fell to the floor and knew I belonged to Allah. I too, made Shahada that night, ten years ago.

It took awhile for me to start wearing Hijab and it was a big struggle but I feel the joy of Allah everytime I adhere to His laws. I recently began wearing Niqab simply because I knew it was how Allah intended me to be since the beginning. My heart is humbled daily as I am constantly reminded that my life is His. Allah has always had a hand on my heart and a voice in my mind. I finally just chose to listen.