By Neah Carney (Christian, USA)
I was born into a relatively conservative Christian home and consider that as my Faith of choice. However, when I came upon an advertisement on Facebook for World Hijab Day, seemingly by chance, I decided to participate. I think Islam is a beautiful religion with beautiful people when practiced as it is meant to be (with love rather than hate), which can be said for nearly all religions, truth be told. In any case it was a very humbling, freeing, and eye-opening experience.
I worked hard today and was told I could not wear a scarf unless it was for religious reasons. I assured them it was. It certainly was not for fun or a bad hair day! As a Christian, I support all my sisters, especially those in my fellow Abrahamic Faiths. Only a little less than a century or so ago, we were held to the same standards, after all! In any case, this spoke to me deep within, a need or something. I took it very seriously and found myself more conscientious about what I said and how I carried myself. Given this, I have decided to wear it not just today (Feb. 1st), but all this week and perhaps beyond. I am sort of in a middling place right now and this feels right.
I hope my words have not caused offense, or that it seems as if I am simply “experimenting” lightly and not taking this to heart. I assure you I am. I am well aware there are many Muslims, Jews and Conservative Christians/Catholics who make a choice not to wear a traditional scarf as their laws encourage. My admiration and love for them is no greater or less. I believe we all have our own paths to travel and there is only One who can know our hearts and judge if we are wrong. Peace to all of you. Thank you for the opportunity.