6 Ways to Connect with Yourself as a New Muslim this Ramadan

When you look in the mirror, you will always have some sort of recall or evaluation. You may recall the good and bad times. The times you are proud of; and those times you may not be so proud of. Upon recalling those moments, evaluate yourself. Let Ramadan be the time you are the most critical about yourself, so that you may better connect with yourself.

Look and ponder over those people, places,and things that distracted you from your purpose in life. We all have parts of our past that we may not be proud of; after all, we are human. Upon those recollections, thank Allah for where he has brought you. The fact that he has given you the strength to make the right decisions in those hard times is a huge accomplishment. Let’s not forget to show gratitude to Allah for that.

If you feel sadness and regret about the past, to keep from getting stuck, use that as fuel to seek forgiveness from Allah and never give up on yourself. 

Although Jacob was sad and in distress for the loss of Joseph and his brother Benjamin, he told the remaining children 

Say, "O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful." (53)

Admitting to yourself about yourself is nourishment for the self. Be aware that admitting and accepting those shortcomings and knowing that that is the first step to healthy transformation and a pillar of humility. 

Also have a person that believes in you; a person that you trust, that will be honest about your shortcomings. Someone that will not judge you on this decision to become a Muslim. 

Recall that moment you were determined to do what it took to be a better version of yourself. Was it when you heard about Islam that served as the catalyst for you to be better? Was it an event that made you realize that you need to change then Islam came along and sealed the deal?                                                                                            

What was it that made you say: ”I want to do this” ? What was the feeling then? Think back when you told the person: “Yes, I’m ready to become a Muslim." How did it feel? Think of the unknown future on how it will be to live as a Muslim.

All praises to Allah that he has brought you this far; it could have easily been different. The opportunities to be a better version of yourself are endless! You have proved that you have the strength to move forward to better yourself. Have hope in Allah that he will enable you to make some meaningful goals and live up to them 

Let's observe your first Ramadan together. Check out all of our resources for new Muslims here.