Why Be A Convert to Islam? Wisdom from my 30+ Year Muslim Journey
Hint: It's About Passion
Ramadan Mubarak dear Friends!
I pray your first week of Ramadan has been blessed! After launching my new YouTube channel (@justgracenow) on the occasion of the start of Ramadan coinciding with my 31st convert anniversary, I experienced what I consider to be a Ramadan miracle. Starting from absolute ground zero with no views and no subscribers, in seven days, somehow the YouTube algorithm picked up my video and at this current moment, it has been viewed over 7,000 times and I have almost 700 subscribers! Among the 200 comments I have received, the vast majority coming from all corners of the world have been kind and supportive. Fewer than two handfuls have been less so, which is its own Ramadan miracle, lol!
All of it is a real-time learning experience for which I am grateful, and somehow, with the sacred energy of this holy month, I have managed to create and drop a second video. Definitely a third Ramadan miracle, I am certain. Here it is:
In it, I share my passion for my “convert tribe”, and also my belief that being a convert is all about a passion for truth and connection with God, whether you are new to Islam or a heritage Muslim (or neither!). I talk about why I believe converts are special, the challenges they confront, and what I have found to be the common traits that give converts the grit to make it - and stay the course. I also share a little bit about my own journey to Islam and a Ramadan miracle in my life that took 30 years to unfold.
Ramadan is a traditionally lonely time for many converts and I pray that this video will reach anyone who needs to see it. I wish you and your loved ones a blessed Ramadan full of Ramadan miracles!
May The Merciful bless you for sharing your story and all the good work you are doing. I never knew you Celine institute existed. My husband who is searching send me this link and it is such an eye-opener , this video and work you have accomplished will bring us closer it’s such a relief to have this available. Thank you so much. Ramadan Mubarak
I wish we had a community nearby just as they do for churches. I wish it was easy to get to a Masjid and sit beside anyone without a screen so that I cannot see the imam. I wish people would welcome one and all and show newcomers what to do and how. I wish the rituals didn't dictate behavior but that it felt like you're home and accepted even if your skirt was just at your knees.