Laura El Alam

No matter how wholesome their family life is, chances are Muslim children will be exposed to online pornography at some point unless their parents take proactive measures.

“I’ve forgotten my keys again. I’m such an idiot!” 

“These glasses make me look so old.”

“Ugh! I look horrible in this outfit.” 

“Another job rejection. I’m a loser.”

In the mid-1990s, I spent my junior year of college studying abroad in southern Spain. At the time, I was not a Muslim. In fact, I knew almost nothing about Islam.

This past March, I celebrated the 23rd anniversary of taking my shahada or testimony of faith, Alhamdullilah (praise and thanks to God alone). Back in 2000, upon embracing Islam, I began a lifelong journey of striving for self-improvement and seeking knowledge.

Taharah, or purification, is a crucial part of Islam. In fact, the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

“Purification is half of iman (faith).” 

(Sahih Muslim 223)