Launching “Cherry Aisha”: Reflections of an English Muslim
A few months ago, I designed and built this blog. Then, I stalled. But now, with meaningful signs and newfound confidence in Allah’s plan, I’m sharing my journey.
How Jane Austen Found Her Way Into My Life
A few years ago, my best friend initiated me into Jane Austen. Shocked that I wasn’t already a super-fan, she encouraged me to pick up her books. Truth be told, English language was not my strength at school, although I fully enjoyed literature. I pushed classic English novels such as Jane Austen’s aside, deeming them “difficult” to read. However I decided to take her advice and pick up the classic Pride and Prejudice.
Falling (Accidentally) in Love With Austen’s World
After initial confusion when reading the dialogue between, I accidentally find myself falling in love with Mr Darcy. Well not so much Darcy himself, but his example of chivalry, self awareness and masculinity. I find myself falling in love with Elizabeth. Her awkward nature, unapologetically standing by who she truly is and even her mother’s nerves (for my own selfish amusement). Slowly, I accidentally find myself drawn into Jane Austen’s world, with some resistance for not wanting to become an English stereotype! Although, writing that down I realise how silly it sounds, coming from an English Muslim convert. I am no Jane Austen expert, I am inspired by her.
Finding Unexpected Parallels With Jane Austen Herself
Learning about Jane Austen’s life, I connect with her battle with imposter syndrome, for who am I to share my journey?
As I chew over this idea, strange things begin to unfold. My favourite Shaykh since before I even uttered the blessed Shahahda was coming to the UK to speak about none other than, Jane Austen. During this talk at The Bradford Literature Festival, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf draws parallels between Jane Austen’s prayer and the prayer of Imam al-Ghazali.
The next day I find myself to be in The David Austen rose centre (not directly connected with Miss Austen herself, but if you have ever visited, you’ll get it). The very same week, I am to be watching a live performance of Pride and Prejudice in my favourite country park. If I could have chosen any dramatic backdrop for such a production – this country park would have been the vision from my wildest dreams. As I read through her work I recognise many parallels between struggles of society 200 years ago which are reflected today. As I sit with her stories, I see parallels between the virtues and vices of her characters, reflected in my studies to become a therapist. We can learn a lot from her novels.
A Series of Divine Austen-Inspired Coincidences
I have no choice but to read this intense week of Austen synchronicities as formal signs from Allah – to release the Jane Austen style blog I have spent the last few month crafting! For some reason or another, I believe my Dear Lord knows of someone out there who will benefit from the reflections of my life journey. If it only benefits a single soul, my efforts will have not been in vain.
A New Chapter Begins: Muharram and New Intentions
It’s the month of Muharram, the beginning of the New Hijri year, a time for new beginnings. So, This is the launch of Cherry Aisha, Reflections of an English Muslim – Battling Pride and Surviving Prejudice. Synchonicities are not to be ignored.
I hope to hear from you in the comments, I would love to learn from your reflections too!
