Personal Journey of Faith

Introduction

• The speaker shares a personal account of their spiritual quest during their first year at university.
• Faced multiple challenges: parents' separation, death of a dog, and loss of a friend.

Initial Questions

• Questions about life purpose and existence arose:
  • "Why do I get up in the morning?"
  • "What is the purpose of life?"

Exploration of Religions

• Christianity:

  • Attended various Christian denominations: Catholicism, Anglican, Baptists.
  • Noted numerous interpretations of Christianity.
  • Confused by differing beliefs among clergy.

• Hinduism:

  • Engaged in discussions with a Hindu colleague at work.
  • Explored concepts like Ganesha, found it challenging.

• Mormonism:

  • Had a close friend who was a Mormon.
  • Found some appealing aspects but struggled with the leap of faith.

• Judaism:

  • Personal connection as the speaker's original name was Ruben.
  • Did not find fulfillment in this religion.

• Buddhism:

  • Found a peaceful community but realized it wasn’t a theistic religion.

• Islam:

  • Initially prejudiced due to misconceptions about Islam.
  • Eventually walked into a mosque, marking a significant turn in the journey.

Encounter with the Muslim Community

• Experienced warmth and hospitality from Muslim brothers, notably Hamza.
• Engaged in theological discussions, found answers rooted in the Quran rather than personal opinions.
• The brotherhood and community support were appealing.

Spiritual Moment

• Sought a sign for faith, felt disappointed by the lack of dramatic signs.
• Found profound realization in a verse of the Quran about the signs of God.
  • "Look around you... these are the signs for the people of knowledge."

Embracing Islam

• After six months of investigation, decided to become a Muslim.
• Attended the mosque on the first night of Ramadan, overwhelmed by the community.
• Experienced spiritual cleansing during the Shahada (declaration of faith).

Transformation and Family Reaction

• Personal transformation post-conversion:
  • Changed appearance and behavior.
  • Became more reliable and responsible.
• Initial concerns from family about changes in behavior and beliefs.
• Positive feedback from family, especially the father, who acknowledged the speaker's improvements as a person.

Conclusion

• Emphasized the importance of community and faith in personal growth.
• Affirmed the positive impact of Islam on their life and relationships.