Tania Poling: Islam Gave Meaning to My Life
📍 Reported by Rahyafte: The following is an interview with a German woman who embraced Islam. Tania Poling was born into a Christian family in Hamburg. Her perspective on Islam is fascinating, and she attributes her newfound vitality to discovering the faith.
🔹 A Turning Point
Tania Poling, a young woman from Hamburg, radiates energy and contentment. She credits her inner peace and fulfillment to Islam.
"I lived in a relatively affluent family and seemed to have everything on the surface. I had many friends and would go out with them after work. Yet, despite being in a crowd, I constantly felt lost and empty. I didn't even understand what I was searching for, which made me anxious."
One day, while shopping with friends, she encountered a Muslim woman wearing hijab. "We arrogantly mocked her appearance, and I told her, 'What kind of look is this?' I expected her to be embarrassed, but she confidently responded, 'And what kind of look is this that you've chosen for yourself?'"
The conversation took an unexpected turn. Instead of feeling defensive, the Muslim woman explained that modesty is a sign of inner peace, whereas immodesty often reflects inner turmoil. "At that moment, I rejected everything she said, but her presence and confidence stayed with me. I kept thinking about her for days."
This encounter sparked curiosity, leading Tania to visit the Imam Ali Mosque in Hamburg. "I was astonished to see people of different nationalities, including Germans, practicing Islam. I realized Islam wasn’t just an Eastern religion—many Europeans had embraced it."
What touched her most was the warmth and sense of unity among Muslims. "I compared my life with theirs. We in the West claim to have friends, family, and social circles, yet everyone lives for themselves. In contrast, Muslims genuinely cared for one another. They weren’t lost; they knew their purpose. Their answers were consistent: they believed in responsibility, not just towards themselves but towards everything around them."
🔹 Embracing Islam
Tania's journey led her to regular visits to the mosque, where she formed deeper connections, especially with Iranian Muslims. "Their logic resonated with me. One day, I realized—I, too, was a Muslim." She took the Shahada and embraced Islam wholeheartedly.
When asked about the most influential factor in her conversion, she said:
"The spiritual connection Muslims have with God, their closeness, their sense of purpose, and their religious structure—these were the key aspects that captivated me and led me to Islam."
🔹 Family and Social Challenges
Tania faced significant challenges after accepting Islam. "All my old friends abandoned me. My parents were initially shocked and strongly opposed my decision, especially my outward changes like wearing the hijab."
Arguments ensued, but eventually, her unwavering faith and improved character softened their hearts. "Now, they prefer the 'new Tania' over the old one. Though they still struggle with my hijab, they see my inner peace and respect my choice."
Surprisingly, despite losing her old friends, she never felt alone. "I became part of the global Muslim community. When I go to the mosque, I see that nationality and appearance don’t matter—faith unites us all."
🔹 The Value of Hijab
Reflecting on her earlier encounter, she now fully embraces hijab. "For a European woman, wearing hijab isn’t easy. But once you decide, God grants you strength."
She highlights the stark contrast between Western expectations and Islamic values. "Western society pressures women to be attractive and alluring. Magazines, ads, and TV shows constantly push women to conform to beauty standards. Those who don’t fit the mold suffer emotionally. Hijab rejects this superficiality. It allows women to be valued for their character, not their looks."
