Your immigrant ethnic mother and father can hold you back only if you allow them to hold you back. You need to draw a line in the sand when it comes to your pursuits. In fact, if you anticipate that they will hold you back from doing what’s best for your growth, then don’t tell them what your plans are. Don’t play about your dreams. I have played these games before, and trust me, I know the end.

They’ll pressure you and make you question your logic (i.e, gaslighting) so that you back down and listen to them. Two things can be true at the same time: you can be an obedient, respectful child to your parents while also doing whatever you deem is best for you. It’s not one or the other. Don’t ever let another Muslim or non-Muslim convince you that you need to either be rebellious or be a good girl/boy. That’s extremist logic, dear brothers and sisters, and we need to nip that in the bud!

فِي أَمَانِ اللَّهِ