NameJoakim Kristiansen
Statement

I converted to Islam around a year ago after learning about the religion through Muslim friends. I didn't know much more than was explained to me and after saying shahada I began to practice much to bemusement of friends and family. I joined a community of Sufi's, who were culturally similar and very balanced friendly people. Immediately I decided to get stuck into the texts, the Quran, Hadith, Sira, Tafsir and the writings of people like Al-Ghazali. After studying it personally for months something wasn't quite right what I was reading bore no relation to reality as I saw it and there was some very troubling passages and ideas. I voiced my concerns but got answers that seemed very wishy washy, my faith dropped but I still had a fear of eternal damnation so I kept up prayers, until watching a YouTube channel 'the Masked Arab' who just buried the faith for me. Now having been a Muslim (albeit for only a year) I understand the faith more than I ever could have as a casual observer. The dangers of childhood indoctrination, the need for ex-Muslims from a cultural background of Islam to have a place, a voice and a refuge. I'm not one for generally joining groups but as the ex-Muslim community seems very fragile I feel that just adding an extra number to the group and helping where I can would be of use to you.