Born to a Muslim family, I never had a desire to cover myself. Although my mother and grandmother wore the burqa, I never found it necessary to use a piece of cloth to cover my head. I used to think that wearing an abaya or a hijab signifies a sense of conservativeness. For me, it was a form of bondage from which a Muslim woman can never free herself.
People who follow a particular religion also try to follow traditions and customs associated with it. So, being a believer, I also tried to follow the customs of Islam. After knowing the depth and true meaning of my religion, I decided to wear a hijab. The decision was totally instinctive. And finally, when I started wearing it, I felt positive and confident.
We usually judge people according to their attire. A person dressed in a western attire is considered more educated and able than the one in a traditional outfit. A lady in a pair of jeans is usually thought to be more advanced than the one in a saree or a suit. The same ideology accompanies a hijabi woman. Most people have the misconception that a girl wearing a hijab or a woman wearing a suit is not capable enough. She is looked upon as someone who is not interested in the modern world technology and has no interest in education.
We shouldn’t forget that attire should not be associated with abilities. One can wear jeans and still be foolish while someone in a hijab or a suit can be smart or vice versa. It completely depends on the hard work and capabilities one possesses. I am writing this article for those, who despite living in the 21st century still believe that one’s attire signifies one’s abilities and achievements. We must not forget that Nobel Peace Prize holder, Mother Teresa used to wear a simple saree and her dress code did not stop her from helping others. She was a real-life hero.
A particular dress code shouldn’t be a mark of identity. We all have the right to wear whatever we want, and our attire can’t really be the basis of our capabilities and skills. We are born with different talents and skills, and our dress code shouldn’t be used to judge us.
We must have faith in our abilities and try our best. No matter what you wear, as long as you have faith in your abilities, you can reach immeasurable heights. I wear a hijab and I don’t believe that my hijab makes me look less smart or less educated. I just have to work on my skills like any other person, and I am sure that I will achieve what I really want. Life gives us chances, again and again, we just have to believe in ourselves and accept what we really are and how we really look.