Hello (Merhaba)

Submitted by Jules (United States), Sep 26, 2006 at 23:36

I am an American girl whose father is Muslim. My father was from Yozgat, Turkey. My mother was with my father for 5 years before she even knew he had a wife in Turkey. To make a long story short, due to my fathers mishaps, I am now a confused 30 yr old woman. I believe in faith and spirituality. Whomever God may be he is truly an artist and has the most colorful heart.

In my opinion I see religion as a barrier of segregation. Most of us rather catholic, muslim, christian are followers of either beliefs due to our upbringing. Many independent believers may do their own personal research to truly believe for their own reasons for the truth. I am married to an American man who celebrates all the American holidays like Christmas, Easter....Even though my mother was American and my father Turkish I still never celebrated any of those holidays. To this point I don't feel like I missed out on anything.

However, now I celebrate the holidays because my dear husband grew up with them and out of love for him I feel it would be too much to take those memories from him. We both agree that we will try to teach our children both cultures and holidays. Yes, I am sure it will be confusing. Most importantly, I have learned that most Muslims are very unselfish and family oriented.

I suggest learning as much as you can about the true roots of the culture since your children will be part Muslim regardless, it will be in their blood. Remember God (whomever we believe...) is sharing and a creator. In my interpretation as long as you and your Husband work together, compromise EQUALLY , love and respect each other these values are the best for your family.

I wish you all the best!

"INSHALLA"

J-

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