by Maryam Funmilayo

Created on: January 16, 2010

Living as a Muslim in America

Born in the United States and raised in Nigeria, I have been able to witness first-hand, the similarities and differences in both cultures. Needless to say both countries have their ups and downs, good and bad, just like every other country on the surface of the earth.

I am grateful to my parents who brought me up in Nigeria after their college education in the United States. At the same time, I believe that whatever Allah has in plan for every creature of His, would definitely take place.

Every Muslim’s experiences are different, irrespective of the country of origin. Some were born into non-practicing Muslim homes and found out about the pristine Islam while attending high school or college. I am an example of such category. While growing up, I knew much about my culture and traditions than the religion I was born into.  It was at college in Nigeria that I regained my Islamic identity.

Now, after spending eleven years in the United States, I will be doing injustice to myself and to many others if I say that I have not increased in my Islamic knowledge and spirituality. Living as a Muslim in America, has opened the doors of credible, fascinating opportunities for me. These opportunities range from spiritually uplifting conferences, academic, professional and entrepreneurial settings. So far, it has been an experience that I hope to share with so many willing to listen to my story.

Yes, it is indeed a struggle to be a Muslim in America. With all the negative comments, stories, and awkward ideas instilled in people’s minds, it is so easy to remain solo and not be a part of the Muslim community at large. It is so easy to be a mere onlooker without any Islamic identity. It is very easy to “hide” to avoid any confrontation.

I say to my fellow Muslims: if you are a resident in America, know that this is part of your destiny. You are simply living your destiny. And to make such destiny wholesome, you cannot continue to live in isolation, thinking that you are practicing your Islam without any disturbance. Islam is not a religion for only you or your family. It is neither an ethnic, cultural nor tribal religion. It is a global religion. If you are a Muslim living in America, make your life look like a rainbow by adding colors to your day to day living. Step out of your cultural realms, and don on the hat of fellowship with the people around you.

For on the day of questioning, Allah will not ask you where you lived. He will ask you what exactly your contributions are wherever you lived.

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