Why I have a Christmas tree in my house
“So it was not God who made me a Muslim. It was you, right? It was your decision”
Fa Abdul, Free Malaysia Today
A few years back, my children and I went shopping at Mid Valley Megamall when we came across a gorgeous Christmas tree displayed at the centre court.
“Christians are so lucky, ma,” my 10-year-old son said as he admired the Christmas tree.
Pretty shocked with his statement, I took a while to respond.
“Ya, ma. It’s so nice. They get to buy presents and receive presents from everyone. So much fun!” my daughter added.
“And we have to fast for one whole month!” said my boy with bulging eyes.
At that moment I knew I had two choices – I could tell them God would be displeased with their statements. Or I could respect their right to have their own opinions.
“Do you wish to exchange Hari Raya for Christmas?” I asked in a relaxed tone.
“Err…ma, I don’t think we can do that,” said my girl. “We are Muslim. We have to puasa and celebrate Hari Raya. Kalau tak nanti masuk neraka”.
Having faith in my kids, I asked, “Who chose the clothes and the shoes you are wearing today?”
“We did. We picked it ourselves”.
“And who chose to shop at Mid Valley?”
“We did.”
“So you get to choose most things. But who chose your religion for you?”
“No one. We were born Muslim. Right?” asked my daughter while my son looked confused.
“Remember who put you in my tummy?” I asked my boy.
“Allah did!” he was quick to answer with a big smile.
“Yes, and it is Allah who decided that you should be born a Muslim,” I explained.
“So it is Jesus who decides Christian babies are born as…well, Christians?” my girl raised her eyebrow.
“Well, technically, there is only one God. Different people call Him using different names but He is One,” I explained.
“Wait,” my daughter stopped me, “If Muslims, Christians and everyone else share the same God, why did God decide I be a Muslim and not a Christian?”
“Because I am a Muslim. When God made you my daughter, I taught you to be a Muslim too, just like me,” I answered, knowing exactly what my daughter would say in response.
“So it was not God who made me a Muslim. It was you, right? It was your decision,” she was quick.
“Well, I like to believe that God intended you to be a Muslim, that’s why he chose to place you inside my belly, knowing I will be your mother and raise you as a Muslim”.
“Does that mean we HAVE to be Muslims?” asked my boy.
