Standing Strong When the World Turns Against You: A 15-Year-Old’s Reflection

As-salamu alaikum, sisters and brothers,

It’s me — just a regular kid trying to make sense of this wild thing called school. Sometimes, it feels more like a battlefield than a place to learn. You know that feeling — the whispers, the sideways glances, the pit in your stomach when you see certain people coming your way? Yeah, I get it. I’ve been there.

I’ve seen it all: the bullying, the gossip, the way people can twist your words and use them to hurt you. And I’ve felt it too, especially from someone I once called my closest friend. It’s like you think you know someone, but then suddenly, they show a side you never wanted to see.

A few months ago, this girl who I was really close to started turning against me. At first, it was small things — whispers, rumors. Stuff I told her in confidence, spread around like wildfire. Then the fights began. She’d say one thing to me and another to others. Drama exploded, and I was stuck in the middle, wondering what I did wrong.

Then the body shaming started. Every little flaw, every insecurity, was thrown in my face. It felt like she was tearing me apart piece by piece. I felt so small, so worthless. My confidence crumbled, and I lost about 9 kilograms in two months — in a very unhealthy way. I learned a hard lesson: Sometimes even the people you trust can hurt you the most.

What I’ve Learned and Want to Share with You

Lesson One: Guard Your Secrets
In Islam, we understand the power of the evil eye — harm can come even unintentionally. Sharing too much can leave you vulnerable. Sometimes, people use your secrets against you. So protect your *noor* — your inner light. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, while there is good in both.” (Sahih Muslim)
Being strong includes protecting yourself wisely.

Lesson Two: Stand Strong Against Judgment
People may judge your looks, your weight, or anything else. Don’t let their words define you. Allah says in the Quran: “We have certainly created man in the best of stature.” (Quran 95:4) If it gets too hard, don’t hesitate to seek help from a trusted adult. If you have to face it yourself, remember: silence can be powerful. Please don’t stoop to their level. Ignore the insults, and they lose their power.

Lesson Three: Trust Wisely
Don’t give your heart away too easily. People can change, and not always for the better. Learn to observe and trust your instincts. It’s okay to be alone — it’s better than being surrounded by those who betray you. Allah reminds us: “And rely upon Allah; and sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affairs.” (Quran 33:3)

Trust in Him, and trust yourself.

A Message for Anyone Going Through This

If you’re struggling with bullying, betrayal, or feeling alone, know you’re not alone. Reach out to someone you trust — even just one person. Find comfort in your prayers and faith. Allah is always with you, watching your struggles and guiding you.

And remember this:
“Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.” (Quran 2:286)

This isn’t the end. You will get through it. Show your strength through your intelligence, your prayers, and your patience.

Personal Dua:

O Allah, protect my heart and the hearts of all those who suffer. Grant us strength when we feel weak, peace when we feel troubled, and the wisdom to stand firm in Your path. Guide us to surround ourselves with kindness and truth, and make us patient in the face of trials. Ameen._

Stay strong, keep your faith, and remember — you are never truly alone.

Jazakallah Khair

Ifra Fatima

A 15-year-old Muslimah