Stacey lived a fairy tale love story. A photo could not encapsulate the joy she experienced the day she wed her husband, Anfal. They had an outdoor wedding on a sunny day, but her smile shone brighter than the sun. Her proud husband shared his wedding photos with Mimi, a coworker, who surprised him with devastating news over lunch.
“Some girls dream of their wedding day,” Mimi said, pouting between bites. “My parents told me if I marry a Muslim man, they would be dead to me.”
Anfal put his phone away. He could look at his wedding album another time. He exhibited remorse. “I’m sorry to hear that, but you’re Muslim now, so you have no choice but to marry a Muslim man. C’mon, my friend, it’s time for you to live happily ever after. Your parents will understand.”
Mimi opened up. “You’ve met my parents. They think you’re amazing, so young and so successful. They have Muslim friends, but they have a problem with Islam versus Christianity being practiced in the home. Without Christ, I am nothing to them.”
Anfal said with optimism, “I hope they understand Islam accepts the truth of who the messiah was without instilling worship in a Trinity. God is one, not three in one.”
“Sorry, Anfal, your words would fall on deaf ears. My parents don’t support my decision to become Muslim. It deeply saddens me, but congratulations on your wedding. Mabrook! All the pieces of the puzzle are coming together for you. You are living the dream.”
“Keep striving for the sake of Allah. You’ll persevere. Allah, the Turner of Hearts, will change your parents’ attitude in shaa Allah.”
“Thanks, bro. I don’t want to disappoint the rents. I just want to live my life without apology. I keep telling them they won’t lose a daughter, but instead gain a son. They don’t understand the beauty of Islam. Who knows? Maybe if I start a Muslim family, they’ll understand Islam better and even become Muslim themselves.”
“In shaa Allah,” Anfal said. He wiped the corners of his mouth. Lunch was delicious, but the conversation was both inspiring and depressing.
After lunch, Anfal continued to edit Mimi’s report. They collaborated well. Stacey texted Anfal the message: “thinking of you.”
They exchanged a flurry of texts. The work day came to a close, and Anfal was excited to go home to his new wife.
“Give Stacey my best! Please tell her beautiful wedding dress,” Mimi chose to be upbeat. She had obstacles, but she prayed for her parents’ hearts to open up.
“Will do! One day your parents’ hearts will open up.”
“I pray one day soon,” Mimi said. “I’m just happy for you!” Mimi logged out of her computer. She watched the sunset outside her office window. Anfal and Mimi went their separate paths. They both had hope. They balanced hope and fear. Fear of the future and hope for tomorrow. There is always hope.
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