After a few months of teaching at Salman Farsi Primary School, Maryam found herself struggling with certain Islamic concepts. Though she had embraced Islam wholeheartedly, she often felt lost when it came to understanding the deeper aspects of her new faith. One afternoon, after her last class, she decided to speak with the school's principal, Mrs. Beenish Tahir.
Maryam took a deep breath before knocking on the principal's office door.
"Come in," Mrs. Beenish's warm voice called from inside.
Maryam entered, offering a polite smile. "Assalamu Alaikum, Mrs. Beenish. May I have a moment of your time?"
"Of course, Maryam. Please, have a seat," the principal said, gesturing towards the chair in front of her desk.
Maryam settled in, gathering her thoughts. "I wanted to talk to you about something personal. You see, I wasn't born into a Muslim family. I was raised as a Catholic, and I embraced Islam only a few months ago. While I am deeply committed to my faith, I sometimes struggle with certain basic Islamic teachings. I feel like I need proper guidance to strengthen my understanding."
Mrs. Beenish listened attentively, nodding with understanding. "That's a very wise decision, Maryam. Seeking knowledge is an essential part of our faith. You are doing the right thing."
Maryam sighed in relief. "Thank you. I was afraid I might not be able to manage both my job and learning at the same time."
The principal smiled warmly and opened her drawer, taking out a visiting card. She handed it to Maryam. "This is the address of Syedna Umar Farooq Academy. The academic in-charge there, Mr. Abu Bakar Siddiqui, is an excellent teacher. He has helped many new Muslims understand the foundations of Islam. You can give him my reference, and also mention Ayesha's name. He will definitely assist you."
Maryam took the card and studied it carefully. The academy's address was clearly mentioned, and she noted that the evening classes were available.
"JazakAllah Khair, Mrs. Beenish. This means a lot to me," Maryam said, gratitude shining in her eyes.
"Anytime, my dear," the principal replied. "You are a valued teacher here, and I want to see you thrive in all aspects of life."
Maryam left the office feeling hopeful. She tucked the card safely into her bag and finished the rest of her school day with renewed energy. Later that evening, after completing her usual tasks at Ayesha's home, she decided it was time to visit the academy.
Dressed modestly in a long navy-blue abaya and a white hijab, she took a taxi to the address mentioned on the card. The academy was located in a peaceful neighborhood, its exterior simple yet welcoming. The entrance had a sign that read: *Syedna Umar Farooq Academy – A Place for Knowledge and Guidance.*
Taking a deep breath, Maryam stepped inside. The reception area was small but well-organized. A young woman in a hijab greeted her with a warm smile.
"Assalamu Alaikum. How may I assist you?" she asked.
"Wa Alaikum Assalam," Maryam replied politely. "I'm here to meet Mr. Abu Bakar Siddiqui. I was referred by Mrs. Beenish Tahir and Ayesha."
The receptionist nodded and gestured towards a seating area. "Please have a seat. I'll inform him."
Maryam sat down, her hands clasped together in nervous anticipation. A few minutes later, a middle-aged man with a neatly trimmed beard and kind eyes entered the room.
"Assalamu Alaikum, sister Maryam. I am Abu Bakar Siddiqui," he said warmly.
"Wa Alaikum Assalam, sir," Maryam responded, standing up to greet him respectfully.
"Please, have a seat," he said, gesturing to a chair in his office. As Maryam settled in, he continued, "Mrs. Beenish and Ayesha both spoke highly of you. What brings you here today?"
Maryam hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Sir, I embraced Islam a few months ago, but I sometimes struggle with understanding certain concepts. I feel like I need a structured way to learn the basics of my faith."
Mr. Abu Bakar nodded thoughtfully. "That is completely understandable. Islam is a vast and beautiful religion, and learning it takes time and effort. But do not worry, Maryam. You are not alone. We have special beginner classes for new Muslims where we cover everything from the basics of belief to daily prayers, Quranic recitation, and Islamic ethics."
Maryam felt a wave of relief wash over her. "That sounds exactly like what I need," she said, smiling for the first time since she arrived.
"Great," Mr. Abu Bakar said. "We have evening classes four times a week. Since you are working during the day, you can join the evening batch. It will be a step-by-step journey, and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions you have."
Maryam nodded eagerly. "That would be perfect. When can I start?"
"You can start tomorrow," he said. "I will personally guide you through your lessons, and if you ever need additional help, feel free to ask."
Maryam's heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you so much, sir. I truly appreciate this opportunity."
Mr. Abu Bakar smiled. "It is my pleasure. We are all here to help each other in our journey of faith."
As Maryam walked out of the academy that evening, she felt a deep sense of peace. For the first time in months, she no longer felt lost. She now had a place to learn, a mentor to guide her, and a renewed sense of purpose.
When she reached Ayesha's home, Ayesha was waiting for her in the living room.
"So? How was it?" Ayesha asked eagerly.
Maryam smiled brightly. "It was wonderful. Mr. Abu Bakar is very kind and knowledgeable. I start my classes tomorrow."
Ayesha clapped her hands happily. "That's amazing, Maryam! I knew you would find what you were looking for."
Maryam nodded, feeling a newfound sense of belonging. "Yes, Alhamdulillah. This is just the beginning of my journey."