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Was I Just Used? (Muslim Brothers and Sisters Please Also)

Salaam Muslim Brothers and Sisters

3 years ago back. I met this girl, well mannered, polite, kind and sweet hearted always hardworking and helpful. At the time I made the niyyath (intention) of marrying her by telling my mum and ever since then I have been saving for a small simple wedding. At that point and at that time she said to me marriage was not something on her mind until I came across although the wait would considerably would also be due to her completing university. In between I have done everything I can, not only being affectionate and loving and supportive but being able to help build up educational experience through connections of places to gain work experience within her field of study, I would always out of my own will this was but just wanted to set an example of what a future potential spouse I could be by just taking care of her, ensuring her wellbeing was taken care of and I was there to support her in days when she needed someone the most for example, when she nearly dropped out of university in her first year of university being that source of guidance and just growing her belief and confidence and trust that she can be able to do it. I even make and made dua in her name making sure Allah almighty, all merciful and all powerful always keeps her happy, safe, looked after, taken care of in good health that she’s supported in her education and has a successful life I also went performing umrah for the both of us. Yet January this year just before Ramadan she told me she was not financially or mentally ready for marriage. Communication between us has gone so cold and dull from her end, every attempt I make to speak to her she gives dry responses. Why did she say or do this especially considering her university finishes now or soon? Why did she say all this 3 years down the line after I waited for her patiently and eagerly? Was I used? What do I do? I really love her but I am unsure of what to do?

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Reply 1

Not Muslim here so feel free to disregard if thats what you want, but if you love her you would wait for her more right? If she honestly is not ready for marriage because she is prioritising education and wants a stable job to be financially ready for marriage / married life then you should trust her and give her the time to be ready. If she has gone cold, perhaps she is stressed over uni at the moment if its the very end of her studies - I was the same at the end of university too. Have a conversation with her and explain that you are ready for it, but try to trust her too. For a woman, completing studies and getting a career is really important when married life has always been seen as the "end" of a woman's independent life as she is suposed to care for the husband alone. Maybe she is worried she will lose that sense of independence in marriage.
The only thing to be worried about in this situation (and again it depends on your level of trust in your partner), but its whether she is questioning if you're the man she does want to marry. If she says she just isnt ready but does not suggest that she doesnt want to marry you specifically, then you should be able to wait for her.

Reply 2

Original post
by Anonymous
Not Muslim here so feel free to disregard if thats what you want, but if you love her you would wait for her more right? If she honestly is not ready for marriage because she is prioritising education and wants a stable job to be financially ready for marriage / married life then you should trust her and give her the time to be ready. If she has gone cold, perhaps she is stressed over uni at the moment if its the very end of her studies - I was the same at the end of university too. Have a conversation with her and explain that you are ready for it, but try to trust her too. For a woman, completing studies and getting a career is really important when married life has always been seen as the "end" of a woman's independent life as she is suposed to care for the husband alone. Maybe she is worried she will lose that sense of independence in marriage.
The only thing to be worried about in this situation (and again it depends on your level of trust in your partner), but its whether she is questioning if you're the man she does want to marry. If she says she just isnt ready but does not suggest that she doesnt want to marry you specifically, then you should be able to wait for her.

Nope but nevertheless appreciate your verdict and point of view. For her I will wait no matter what. I am not growing agitated or frustrated although I am just highly curious as to why 3 and a half years into us knowing one and other she said that. As well as if she truly loved me why would she say she’s busy in life right now, dealing with family dealings aside also you can’t surely be that busy for the person you love right? Although as you said if she ain’t ready and it’s a matter of giving the time for her to be financially stable and ready for marriage then yeah the time can be given nevertheless that’s nothing to question about from my end. I have tried having conversations with her recently and lately as far back as Sunday and she’s just gone dry and dull on her responses.

“But it’s whether she is questioning if you're the man she does want to marry. If she says she just isn’t ready but does not suggest that she doesn't want to marry you specifically, then you should be able to wait for her.” She has never questioned this before. She has said she is not ready but never gave anything legitimate behind anything neither suggested I am not the one she does not want to marry. I am just sad and disappointed over how she has been treating me and how she has been as of lately.

Reply 3

It sounds like you've approached this in quite a transactional way: You provide for her, woo her, make niyyath, make dua in her name, perform umrah, be supportive and IN EXCHANGE your expectation is that she marries you. But in fact it doesn't sound like she ever agreed to that, or asked you to do any of those things. So no, she hasn't used you; you just decided to do those things.

At the end of the day it's her decision whether she marries you or anyone. It's completely reasonable to say she's not ready and she doesn't need to "give anything legitimate behind" that. It's not pleasant but if she's gone dry and unresponsive, I'd take that for your answer and move on.
(edited 8 months ago)

Reply 4

Original post
by anosmianAcrimony
It sounds like you've approached this in quite a transactional way: You provide for her, woo her, make niyyath, make dua in her name, perform umrah, be supportive and IN EXCHANGE your expectation is that she marries you. But in fact it doesn't sound like she ever agreed to that, or asked you to do any of those things. So no, she hasn't used you; you just decided to do those things.
At the end of the day it's her decision whether she marries you or anyone. It's completely reasonable to say she's not ready and she doesn't need to "give anything legitimate behind" that. It's not pleasant but if she's gone dry and unresponsive, I'd take that for your answer and move on.

She actually did well we won’t use agree to the term but she has said all along she wants to get married to me. Everything that I have done is out of my own will, because not only do I love her but I also want what’s best for her. In the past she did say experience is a requirement in breaking to whatever field she study’s in. But then again using or not that’s not the case here. Not necessarily reasonable because how much more time will I be giving waiting on her, haven’t I waited plenty of time as it is…can you actually be that busy to the extent that you can’t talk to the person you love most or make time for them anyways?

Reply 5

People are allowed to doubt things .. to change their minds… think of this outside the emotion for a second. You will see her POV

Reply 6

Original post
by fivesixseven
People are allowed to doubt things .. to change their minds… think of this outside the emotion for a second. You will see her POV

Sorry but can you clarify your point a little please. Are you saying what she first wanted she’s just had reservations about it hence why she’s said what she said and is being the way she’s being.
I don’t really get any sense that she used you. This is just the way that most relationships end, one person not being that into it any more and the other person being a bit blindsided and looking for logic behind it.

Reply 8

Original post
by Admit-One
I don’t really get any sense that she used you. This is just the way that most relationships end, one person not being that into it any more and the other person being a bit blindsided and looking for logic behind it.

Look again I don’t think she used me here? I do believe I have a right to know or be curious as to why the relationship all of a sudden came to like this. What more did I do that was right but wrong in her eyes. It’s just brutal, it’s harsh and painful like she’s not able to relate or understand how I am feeling I feel so sad and upset. Ever since then lonely too. It really isn’t a nice feeling.

Reply 9

Original post
by Anonymous
Sorry but can you clarify your point a little please. Are you saying what she first wanted she’s just had reservations about it hence why she’s said what she said and is being the way she’s being.


She might have changed her mind or have cold feet. It’s not an irrational thing. People can accept one thing and later on, feel quite different about it. Something may have happened that made her feel this way or maybe nothing has happened and she’s just not ready. Either way, at least she’s being direct with you.

You keep asking why won’t she make time for you and that surely you wouldn’t be busy for someone you love, but sometimes people have certain situations that come up and distract them. She may be mentally, emotionally and physically drained and that’s why she’s being blunt. Or perhaps she’s just scared. Give her time. For three years it’s been all talk, yes there have been actions on your part, but has she done anything to act on her part? It’s most likely settling in, what her life would be like with you and being married. People can change how they feel within a matter of moments. She doesn’t need to devote her time to you, she isn’t obligated to. She may need some time alone and it would be better for the both of you if you take some time to reflect on this next step.

Reply 10

Original post
by Anonymous
She might have changed her mind or have cold feet. It’s not an irrational thing. People can accept one thing and later on, feel quite different about it. Something may have happened that made her feel this way or maybe nothing has happened and she’s just not ready. Either way, at least she’s being direct with you.
You keep asking why won’t she make time for you and that surely you wouldn’t be busy for someone you love, but sometimes people have certain situations that come up and distract them. She may be mentally, emotionally and physically drained and that’s why she’s being blunt. Or perhaps she’s just scared. Give her time. For three years it’s been all talk, yes there have been actions on your part, but has she done anything to act on her part? It’s most likely settling in, what her life would be like with you and being married. People can change how they feel within a matter of moments. She doesn’t need to devote her time to you, she isn’t obligated to. She may need some time alone and it would be better for the both of you if you take some time to reflect on this next step.

So taking into consideration and onboard that her mind or this cold approach is her approach going forward. And acknowledging something may have been influential towards this happening and for her to feel the way she’s feeling as of now. The best thing to do is just give space..What are my next steps if you don’t mind me asking or what should I take into consideration for next steps then since you’ve said it’s time to reflect?

Reply 11

Original post
by Anonymous
So taking into consideration and onboard that her mind or this cold approach is her approach going forward. And acknowledging something may have been influential towards this happening and for her to feel the way she’s feeling as of now. The best thing to do is just give space..What are my next steps if you don’t mind me asking or what should I take into consideration for next steps then since you’ve said it’s time to reflect?


She could be feeling this way for a variety of reasons. I’m Muslim too, so I understand why she might be feeling pressured or perhaps scared. (That is IF she’s feeling this way). It’s uncertain why she’s acting so coldly towards you, and the only way you’ll know is if you ask her. I would give her some space for a little while, not too long, however. Then come back to her if she hasn’t started a conversation with you and ask if you two can talk about your current relationship. Don’t jump right into the interrogation. Start off by asking how she is, and if she’s feeling okay. Ask her why she’s been acting differently if something has changed and remind her that it’s okay to admit the truth and that she shouldn’t feel scared or pressured to do something she doesn’t want to. Then if the conversation is going smoothly (smoothly compared to what your usual deep talks would be like), ask her if she would still like to get married and if she’s having any doubts.

Something has changed from what it seems, you will need to give her some time and wait to see if she comes to you first. If she doesn’t, you may need to remind her that you’re still there for her, but you’re not going to enforce anything on her. This sounds like a lot, but it will most likely seem natural when you do this with her. Your most important step is to figure out what suits HER best, based on who she is as a person. Does she like space? Does she like clinginess? Does she like being independent? It helps when it comes to difficult situations like this.

Reply 12

She's been through a lot of stress now from studying. She needs some time to rest and relax before going through something stressful again (marriage). Marriage is a huge thing for both of you, so the whole preparation thing is very stressful and I think she doesn't want to put everything on you (especially financially) so she would probably want to start a good job first.
She never said anything about not wanting to marry you. You are pressing her and it makes her feel uncomfortable and stressed so she is distancing from you. Doesn't mean she doesn't love you.
Maybe talk with her about it in a way that she will see that you are trying not to put her under pressure. Like ask her what would she want to do after university. Explain that she means a lot for you and you will continue supporting her.

I am not a Muslim.

Reply 13

Original post
by Anonymous
She could be feeling this way for a variety of reasons. I’m Muslim too, so I understand why she might be feeling pressured or perhaps scared. (That is IF she’s feeling this way). It’s uncertain why she’s acting so coldly towards you, and the only way you’ll know is if you ask her. I would give her some space for a little while, not too long, however. Then come back to her if she hasn’t started a conversation with you and ask if you two can talk about your current relationship. Don’t jump right into the interrogation. Start off by asking how she is, and if she’s feeling okay. Ask her why she’s been acting differently if something has changed and remind her that it’s okay to admit the truth and that she shouldn’t feel scared or pressured to do something she doesn’t want to. Then if the conversation is going smoothly (smoothly compared to what your usual deep talks would be like), ask her if she would still like to get married and if she’s having any doubts.
Something has changed from what it seems, you will need to give her some time and wait to see if she comes to you first. If she doesn’t, you may need to remind her that you’re still there for her, but you’re not going to enforce anything on her. This sounds like a lot, but it will most likely seem natural when you do this with her. Your most important step is to figure out what suits HER best, based on who she is as a person. Does she like space? Does she like clinginess? Does she like being independent? It helps when it comes to difficult situations like this.

Space it is. No there’s never force behind anything. Hard to understand what’s changed although something must have influenced her mind. I have been there for her since the very first day so she knows I am there for her nevertheless. I just question was there ever anything wrong being a clingy partner and showing that much love and affection for her and expecting her to reciprocate it back to me if so I guess I’ll just keep to myself really.

Reply 14

Original post
by Kathy89
She's been through a lot of stress now from studying. She needs some time to rest and relax before going through something stressful again (marriage). Marriage is a huge thing for both of you, so the whole preparation thing is very stressful and I think she doesn't want to put everything on you (especially financially) so she would probably want to start a good job first.
She never said anything about not wanting to marry you. You are pressing her and it makes her feel uncomfortable and stressed so she is distancing from you. Doesn't mean she doesn't love you.
Maybe talk with her about it in a way that she will see that you are trying not to put her under pressure. Like ask her what would she want to do after university. Explain that she means a lot for you and you will continue supporting her.
I am not a Muslim.

Hey @Kathy89 just wanted to thank you for your verdict I appreciate your point of view and it’s equally considered. I think for a long time I have considered marriage in this circumstance whilst she’s at university completing university isn’t possible and I don’t want her to feel pressured into something she’s not comfortable to. But yeah I need to eventually at some point reiterate her importance to myself, how much that she means to me whilst also exploring and getting a greater idea as to how she approaches this going forward future wise upon completion of university.

Reply 15

Original post
by Anonymous
Sorry but can you clarify your point a little please. Are you saying what she first wanted she’s just had reservations about it hence why she’s said what she said and is being the way she’s being.


You are so young! You will meet many! Not all relationships work out. Trust god and move on

Reply 16

Original post
by fivesixseven
You are so young! You will meet many! Not all relationships work out. Trust god and move on

And what if they turn out to be the same.

Reply 17

Original post
by Anonymous
And what if they turn out to be the same.

Trust me, they won't. There are as many types of women in the world as there are women.

To be clear, most of them won't be interested in marrying you, and that's okay. You only need to find the right one.

Reply 18

Original post
by Anonymous
Space it is. No there’s never force behind anything. Hard to understand what’s changed although something must have influenced her mind. I have been there for her since the very first day so she knows I am there for her nevertheless. I just question was there ever anything wrong being a clingy partner and showing that much love and affection for her and expecting her to reciprocate it back to me if so I guess I’ll just keep to myself really.


It’s hard to understand what’s changed because you don’t know what has happened to her to feel this way or maybe she has just changed her mind. Being a clingy partner isn’t appealing to everyone, some people enjoy it and some don’t. They like having their independence and spending time away from those they love. It could be to refrain from getting annoyed with them. If you’re constantly around someone, some may get irritated, bored or angry. You don’t need to be with someone 24/7 to show that you love them. It’s the moments you share and when you share those moments, it makes them more memorable. You can’t expect others to reciprocate. You can want it, and realise when it’s worth your time. If someone isn’t reciprocating, and expressing themselves the way you are, it’s either because they don’t feel the same way (as strongly as you do) or they show they love you in a different way. Remember there are five types of love languages. You have to find someone who will love you the same amount as you do, and understand their love languages. Don’t bash them for needing time or showing a different side of love, just try and understand them. You’ll find someone.

Reply 19

Update: I decided to give up after 3 and a half years of waiting I just said to her I’ve given up she said we had to work on ourselves I don’t think we are aligning well and I am deeply sad as it is. The pain comes though I have given up and I am brave enough, courageous enough and strong enough to deal alone and by myself.

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