Rejected… but not from God

My first job interview… I was nervous and excited at the same time.
I wore the ironed navy blue abaya and white hijab… My heart was dancing with fear and excitement.
In the waiting room… all the girls looked alike, their hair and headscarves showing… and I was standing alone.
I asked myself:
“Do I fit in here? Or am I really a stranger, as they say?”

I entered the HR office. The employee smiled a fake smile:
— “Are you sure this outfit is appropriate for the nature of our work? We’re looking for someone with a bit of style.”

I said calmly, trying to steady my hand:
— “I believe that the outfit won’t affect the work, but this is my identity… This is who I am.”

I exchanged glances with the manager, and I sensed a look of surprise more than any question.
He said dryly:
— “Honestly, we’re looking for a specific image for the company’s front page. Can we try it if you change the style of your hijab?”

My heart Signed.
I felt wronged… not just because of the job, but because of the idea that modesty had become an obstacle.
I left the office… tears in my eyes but my head held high.

I stood in front of the mirror on the street… I said to myself:
“If people reject me, God will never reject me… The job I get will reach me as I am.”

Have you also been in a similar situation?
Did you agree to change to get a job? Or did you stick to your principles no matter what?
Share your story, or even your opinion on the job market and the hijab…
Maybe your comment or experience will give hope to another girl entering the same battle soon!