Today was different though. Today, as she was dealing with the few customers who had lined up at her counter, Sara noticed one particular customer; A fairly middle-aged lady, short white hair, with light blue eyes, just staring at her with a warm smile. Naturally, Sara returned her smile. As she continued to help the other customers, she kept glancing up at the lady, who she noticed kept a studying gaze firmly on her. When it was her turn, she walked upto the counter and Sara greeted her like she did all her customers. The lady greeted her back and engaged in small talk as Sara completed her purchase. At the end of her purchase, the lady thanked her and was turning around to leave when she paused and turned back to Sara. She leaned in on the counter as though she were telling Sara a secret. Oddly enough, there was noone else around to hear it even if she was going to do so. Puzzled, Sara listened closely and intently as the lady whispered with a smile, "Dear, you are such a young girl, why do you cover your hair with that? Why do you wear that black robe? You're young, you should take it off and live freely!". At first Sara was taken aback. She was shocked and just stared at her for a moment. Noone had ever asked her such a thing. She was surprised, but also commended this lady's courage. So she took a deep breath, smiled and replied, "I cover my hair with this cloth known as a Hijaab, and cover myself with this robe which is known as an 'abaaya because Allaah has commanded me to do so. For me, this is my freedom. It allows me to be known and respected for my intellect rather than my appearance." The lady went on, "But you should have a choice. *insert hearty laugh*" to which Sara replied, " This is my choice though. I do this because I want to please my Creator, not out of oppression or because someone is telling me to do so." Needless to say, the lady just stood there and watched Sara for a moment. She shook her head from side to side ever so slightly and then, with her warm smile and a polite, "Ok dear, if you say so. Have a nice day", she walked away..
Here's a beautiful little excerpt, " My dear sister in Islam, I know that it is quite difficult for you to go out wearing Hijab in a society that mocks and torments you. I know that you, indeed, feel strange and out of place. However, if you knew the status of those who are mocked by the Kufar as well as the status of the strangers, you will continue to wear your Hijab (i.e. to cover your entire body with a Khimaar as commanded (24:31), as well as with a Jilbaab (33:59), with the exception of the hands and face; however, knowing the recommendation to cover those parts (as well) with dignity. Allah (Subhaanahu wa T'aala) says in His Book: “Verily! (During the worldly life) those who committed crimes used to laugh at those who believed. And whenever they passed by them, used to wink one to another (in mockery); And when they returned to their own people, they would return jesting; and when they saw them, they said: ‘Verily! These have indeed gone astray!’ But they (disbelievers, sinners) had not been sent as watchers over them (the believers). But on this Day (the Day of Resurrection) those who believe will laugh at the disbelievers. On (high) thrones, looking (at all things). Are not the disbelievers paid (fully) for what they used to do?” [Surah Al-Mutafifin 83:29-36] "
Allah’s (azz wa jal) words should serve as a support for you my dear sisters. Also, take comfort in being a stranger. Allaah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “Islam began as something strange, and it would revert to its (old position) of being strange, so good tidings for the strangers.” [Narrated by Abu Huraira and Reported Sahih Muslim]
Indeed, all praises are due to Allaah, we praise Him, seek His Aid and beg for His Forgiveness. We ask Him to give us strength, make the hardships of all our brothers and sisters in Islam easier, and keep us all steadfast on this Deen. *Ameen*
