Weird Things People Say

Since the beginning of my relationship with Said people usually talk from their asses when they find out he's Muslim, and then they completely go into "intervention" mode when they find out he's also an Olympic boxer.

Here's some of the annoying, racist things I've had to listen to:

1. Are you sure he's not going to beat you?

2. I'm so glad my boyfriend is Modern

3.  Are you sure he can love you?

4.  Isn't he going to be abusive?

5.  Oh my God!

6.  I'd be so scared if I were you

7.  Is he a terrorist?

8.  Wow, that's scary

9.  I'd hate it if my boyfriend controlled me (says the slut who just bragged about multiple sexual encounters with multiple men)

10.  He's handsome, but I wouldn't want to risk getting abused.

And that's just a few of the very shallow racist comments I usually get when I talk to someone about Said.  What is most ironic to me is that my relationship has lasted 6 years and still going strong, but so many others who criticized me for my choices are single or divorced.

Lesson learned:  a healthy relationship easily out weighs social expectations.  A relationship should not be shamed simply for the race or religion of one of two people; it should be celebrated for being both strong and healthy.


~ Chelsea

Culture

"Your mate’s #culture is just part of his/her soul and being. Don’t try to change it. Instead, embrace what makes him or her special, love him or her for who they are, and the rest will work itself out."

I love this quote.  It says everything I wish to convey with this blog.  Culture is paramount to any person's identity.  It cannot be changed and should not be attempted.  

However, not everyone feels the same way.  According to the following article, there are no clear rules in either religion that prohibit interfaith marriage.  But, it is key to know that if you or your partner intend to "change" the other if and when you're married - you clearly are not ready.  

Great article right here!
http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/story/2012-02-12/islam-muslim-interfaith-marriage/53062730/1?siteID=je6NUbpObpQ-fjcVWY40gP_.u1YkPYCC1Q

Love

It's OK . . . .


                  if two people have different ideas of love as long as they love each other.

But, it's NOT OK to force someone to love you in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable

It is 100% possible for two people from two completely different cultures to truly love each other

As a christian in love with a muslim our love is as unique as we are, therefore, it doesn't matter if anyone understands us or not.

Stay strong :)

~Chelsea

IT'S OK!

I have wanted to write a blog about my experience with my best friend of 6 years, who happens to practice Islam.  An entirely new world came into view after I met Said, (Sa-eed), several years ago in which a culture I knew very little of  - and had only heard terrible things - was finally described to me in bite-sized chucks from someone who was there.

I intend to blog about my experiences with Said, an Algerian Muslim, as we go about exploring the differences and similarities of our cultures - and then our secrets to a lasting friendship and romance.  The title of this blog says a lot about me; I'm a Christian in love with a Muslim and over the years I've had to constantly plead my case that it is alright for me to love Said despite racist relatives and ignorant people.  It is OK to love a Muslim and our recipe to a happy and healthy relationship will be recorded on this blog for the world to see. 

~Chelsea