As a new convert, the best advice I got was to give myself time. Islam came down in stages, and the believers growth in faith was a journey, something that took time to grow and develop. Be gentle with yourself, and allow yourself to truly experience and appreciate Allah’s infinite mercy and forgiveness. At the same time, make sure that when you do stumble, you use it as a means to grow closer to Allah, turning in a deeper and more meaningful way to Islam.

You don’t have to adopt someone else’s culture to be Muslim. Your unique background adds to Islam’s beautiful diversity. We have room for both biriyani and apple pie. Welcome!

Here is a paraphrase of a beautiful Hadith that has helped me a great deal: This religion is vast, so enter into it gently. We can study Islam every day of our entire lives and barely scratch the surface. But it's important to remember that learning about our religion is an amazing, life-long journey which should be embarked upon gradually and put into practice in a slow, sustainable way.

You are not alone. When I converted, I thought I was the only convert in the world and it made things really difficult. Then I found out there are so many of us, who struggle with work and family issues because of our new faith, and it really helped and comforted me. And most importantly, you have God with you and He will never let you down. When you doubt, when you fear, when you struggle, when you feel alone, turn to Him, always... He is there.

Something I have learnt over the years is "do not forget yourself in the process of trying to become a better Muslima". Work at becoming a better human being but do not reject everything you were (are), thinking it is the only way to grow in your deen.

As-Salaam Alaikum, From my 23 years as a Muslim, I believe firmly that it's important to bring forth our whole selves, with all of our unique talents and qualities to this beautiful faith. In treading this path, it's essential to travel with a guide who can help and direct on this spiritual journey. Simultaneously comes seeking knowledge and building upon it one step at time , bringing our best foot forward and applying what we learn along the way. : In a translated Hadith the Prophet Muhammad (saw) said, "If anyone travels on a road in search of knowledge , Allah will cause him to travel on one of the roads of Paradise" ( Sunan Abu Dawood ,Hadith 1631) How beautiful is that!<3