How did I come to Islam?

 I'd always had a strict upbringing...no staying out late, homework had to be completed the day we got it, house chores, no b.f's etc etc...than the day came when my mum and dad divorced and myself (and my 2 younger sisters) stayed with my mum. It was at this time that I got my first taste of "freedom"...I was allowed out until late, I was allowed b.f's, I started drinking pretty much every weekend, smoking, skipping school............
I fell pregnant at the very young age of 16 and later went on to miscarry...I just had no respect for myself.

The only subject I was really interested in at School was Religious Studies. I had been brought up as Roman Catholic, although I had never been to church or even read the bible..so you can say, that my mind was open for any religion really.

I than met my husband when I was 15 and we became really good friends. I guess I saw him as the big brother I never had. He was there for me when I needed a good cry, someone to talk to etc (although he was 3 hours away from me!!!)
He told me that he was Muslim (although I kind of guessed that already) and I knew nothing about teh religion as it was never really covered in school.

I started reading about Islam but than college got in the way and I never really had time. Itw asn't until we got together and moved in when I was 16 that I really wanted to know what sort of religion he practised so I started reading and becamse really engrossed in books, videos, talks etc.

I realised at that point what had been missing from my life...Allah :D

I started to read more and more and decided this year on the 6th February that I was going to take my Shahada...ʾašhadu ʾan lā ʾilāha ʾilla (A)llāh, wa ʾašhadu ʾanna Muḥammada(n) rasūlu (A)llāhI must admit before I took it, I was soooo nervous but than after I recited it, it was like my prayers had finally been answered. I felt a sense of calm wash over me and the hairs on my body were just standing up..It was a very strange but uplifting feeling.

Since that day I have never looked back and I would not change who I am for the world.

Yes being a Muslim had meant that Ive had to make big changes to my life...like no tight, revealing clothing but than when I look at myself in the mirror, I see someone who takes pride in herself and wears it on her sleeve.

I've met some fantastic sisters in my journey and without them, I wouldn't of had a clue what to do and for that I'll be ever greatful and may Allah reward them for their Kindness

Much Loveage <3