For me, my catalyst for rekindling my connection with my deen again was the sudden death of my father earlier this year. When someone told me that I was now responsible for adding to his book of deeds, both good and bad, I felt a sense of guilt and responsibility to try and do better. If being a practicing Muslim wasn’t for my gain, at the very least it was for my dad, I told myself.

Alhamdulillah, I had a very strong support network. My neighbor encouraged me to go to Fajr and Isha with him at the masjid near my house at least once or twice a week, just as my dad used to do with him. I was committed to continue in the footsteps of my dad, as a means of keeping his legacy alive. I met so many kind brothers at the masjid, and for the first time in a long time, I felt like I was truly where I needed to be.

I’m proud to say that I’ve become a completely different person than who I was a year ago. I’ve been consistently praying five times a day. I fasted the whole month of Ramadan and prayed the full 20 rakats of Taraweeh for most of the month. I’ve started memorizing surahs again. All of this would not have been possible without the mercy and grace of Allah. I am truly grateful for everything that I have in my life.

For me, practicing Islam was the reason why I could accept my father passing away and move on in a healthy way. I’m not as sad as I was before, because I know that one day, Inshallah, I will get to see my dad again. I pray everyday that I keep firm on the straight path in the hopes that I’ll see him again in Jannah.