The Hijab: To Wear or Not To Wear the Islamic Head Scarf

To wear or not to wear the hijab? A hijab is a headscarf that Muslim women typically use to cover their hair when in public. As a convert to Islam, I have opened my heart to the peace and freedom that this religion brings to my soul. And yet, I struggle with the hijab. Why can't I ignore the blank stares or a few unsavory comments from people when I wear the hijab? Shouldn't my faith in God triumph over ego?

I know some Muslimahs who excitedly sort through their hijab inventory finding the perfect color to match their outfit. They collect assortments of bejeweled hijab pins to accentuate the chosen headscarf-du-jour. They beautifully wrap the scarves around their head in intrinsic patterns and end up looking more stunning when they're covered than if they had just let their blond ponytails bounce freely.

Portland, Oregon, is known as a liberal city that embraces diversity. I should be so lucky to live in this area! And yet, when I get ready for work every morning, I look at my hijabs folded nicely on my shelves, and reach for my jacket instead.

Another day goes by for me without covering my hair to preserve my modesty. Will I triumph tomorrow? Or will I choose to wait yet another day?