I’ve been wearing hijab for some time now, and I’ve learned a thing or two about it. But recent contradictions made me think twice before making my final decision. In the end, I chose to go through with donning the hijab, and now that I have, there’s no way that I’ll ever take it off.
First of all, yes, it’s obligatory for a Muslim girl to wear hijab once she becomes of a mature age. There’s no reason bigger than the fact that my Lord has commanded it. Having faith means that you trust in something or someone. When I chose to don the hijab, I trusted in my Lord, and I trusted that this was the right thing to do. I once read this beautiful statement: Faith is trusting god, even when you don’t understand his plan.
But it’s not just about god. Half of faith is believing in yourself and pushing yourself to do better each day. This hijab that I wear is a physical reminder telling me to be the best person that I can be, which is something that many people across the world strive to do, whether they wear hijab or not.
Hijab literally means barrier. For some, this means protection from lustful glances, or protection from evil and wrongdoing. In addition to that, for me, it’s also a reminder that I am unique from everyone else in the fact that this hijab is encouraging me to be different. Just wearing this cloth over my head means that people will look at who I am as a person, not how I look. I noticed that people now pay more attention to what I say, and remember my characteristics, not my body’s characteristics because this hijab doesn’t hide me. It makes me stand out without making me feel uncomfortable or awkward.
This is how I choose to present myself to the world. My unique identity is not something I ever want to lose. I realized that my hijab doesn’t just cover my hair. It covers my character and teaches me new things each day about myself that I would’ve never known otherwise. It reminds me to make the best choices I can because the world is a test. Even if you don’t identify as Muslim, life tests you in a new way each day. In the end, this hijab on my head is like a superpower, acting as a guide.
Now, I’m not here to convince you that you should wear the hijab. In fact, all that most Muslims ask of anyone else is understanding of why we do things like this. These are just my experiences, and what I’ve found to be true. In the end, the hijab isn’t a sacrifice, it’s a gain. I do hope it inspires some of you to take a challenge, be it big or small. Each person on this planet is different, unique, and special. Every person’s uniqueness comes from a different place, and each person has a different motivation. I personally take pride in knowing that wearing the hijab was my choice, especially in today’s world. In Islam, it’s a symbol of maturity, and I’d definitely add independence to that growing list of pros I’ve mentioned. It does take courage to stand out, especially if not everyone in your community agrees with your beliefs. The hijab is a symbol that I’m Muslim and that I’m proud to be one.
It’s just a piece of cloth. That’s all. But this ‘piece of cloth’ empowers me, emboldens me, strengthens me, and prepares me for the challenges of this world. This hijab is what makes me unique, gives me personality, provides me with new opportunities every day, and best of all, it was my choice. I wear the hijab, and I know I won’t ever take it off because I’m proud of the person I’ve become. Because of my hijab.
Written by Zaina C., Age 13
Comments