The golden rays of the evening sun filtered through the glass windows of Syedna Umar Farooq Academy as Maryam sat quietly in the classroom, her hands resting on the wooden desk. It was her first day, and despite the excitement of learning more about her newfound faith, a sense of nervousness crept over her. She glanced around at the other women and young girls seated beside her, each seemingly comfortable in the environment that was still foreign to her.
The chatter in the room began to die down as the door creaked open. Maryam turned her head toward the entrance and felt a wave of surprise wash over her. Ayesha, her dear friend and guide, walked in confidently, dressed in a modest beige abaya and hijab. In her hands were a few books, and the warm smile on her face reassured the students as she stood before them.
"Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh, dear sisters," Ayesha greeted in a gentle yet authoritative tone.
"Wa Alaikum Assalam wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh," the students responded in unison.
Maryam's heart skipped a beat. She had never seen Ayesha in this role before. Of course, she had known her as a friend, a sister, and a mentor, but now she saw her as a teacher—someone with vast knowledge and the ability to guide others. A sense of admiration and pride welled up inside her as she listened intently.
"As we begin this journey together," Ayesha continued, "I want each of you to introduce yourselves briefly. Tell us your name and a little about what led you to this academy."
One by one, the students spoke, sharing their backgrounds. Some were born into Muslim families but wished to strengthen their faith. Others, like Maryam, had recently embraced Islam and sought knowledge to deepen their understanding.
When it was Maryam's turn, she took a deep breath. "Assalamu Alaikum, everyone. My name is Maryam," she began, her voice slightly shaky. "I was born and raised in a Catholic family, but after years of searching, I found my heart drawn to Islam. Alhamdulillah, I took my Shahada a few months ago, and now I am here to learn and grow."
Ayesha's eyes softened with pride. "MashaAllah, Maryam. May Allah bless your journey and grant you success in both this life and the hereafter."
Maryam felt a reassuring warmth in Ayesha's words. As the class continued, she listened carefully, absorbing the lessons on Islamic beliefs, practices, and values. The class lasted for forty-five minutes, and before she knew it, the session had ended.
As she packed her books, she noticed another familiar figure entering the room. It was Mrs. Beenish Tahir, her school principal. Shock rippled through Maryam's body as she realized that Mrs. Beenish was also a teacher at the academy. The principal scanned the room, her eyes locking onto Maryam with a knowing smile.
"Surprised to see me, Maryam?" Mrs. Beenish asked, approaching her with a warm expression.
"Yes, I had no idea you taught here as well!" Maryam admitted, still processing the coincidence.
Mrs. Beenish chuckled. "Knowledge has no limits, Maryam. I've always had a passion for teaching, and I love being part of institutions that spread authentic Islamic knowledge."
Maryam nodded in understanding. Seeing both Ayesha and Mrs. Beenish in this new light made her feel a sense of comfort. These weren't just teachers; they were familiar faces, her well-wishers, her guides in this new chapter of life. A sense of belonging settled in her heart.
After the second class on Islamic Culture and Ethics ended, Maryam walked out of the academy with a lighter heart. The nerves that had weighed her down earlier in the day had vanished. Instead, she felt at home.
As she returned to Ayesha's house, exhaustion crept over her, but it was the good kind—the kind that came from a day well spent. After performing her prayers, she lay down to rest, falling asleep almost instantly, her heart at ease with the path she had chosen.