Her perception was that Islam was oppressive and in her own kind-hearted way, she thought that if she could demonstrate to me this 'truth', I would be all the better for it. She consistently encouraged me to mingle with boys, even recommending a classmate by name for me to date, and frequently advise me to 'let loose sometime'. Upon learning that I would not be dressing up for Halloween as other students do, she insisted that I "at least trick-or-treat" around her neighborhood which is "safe". Yes, she had the best of intentions, but...there's a big 'but' involved.
Her first mistake was believing that deep-down I felt oppressed by my religion. The second was believing that I would be effectively swayed by her quasi nagging suggestions to "let loose!". Could those who enjoy having another's beliefs pushed onto them and being manipulated, please raise their hands (note-A quick perusal of the crowd concludes that no hands are raised.)
Judging by the brief encounter in the store yesterday, she hasn't changed much in this area unfortunately. After our quick embrace, she gave my black abaya the once over and struggled to conceal her disappointment.
But I can't exactly blame her, can I? What Muslim ever told her lovingly, "Hey, I'm happy wearing hijab and, occasionally a black abaya. I feel protected and respected, honored and dignified. I dance with glee, I'll sing the Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang if I want; in the safety and loving atmosphere of my home is 100% fine with me. Thanks though..."
