This is really something that you need to discuss with your parents and your imam or other spiritual leader. Of course, there'll probably be some disagreement since your dad is not Muslim. The last thing you need to do is throw the opinions of complete outsiders into this mix!
All I will say is this: Muslims emphasize modesty, and much in modern American culture militates against that. In fact, the concepts of modesty, grace, and elegance seem to have disappeared from the American youth culture. Maybe it's our loss.
Yes, praying 5 times a day is one of the Pillars of Islam, so it's a requirement. But you know what? It isn't hard, and there are real personal benefits to doing it. I am not Muslim (I am Episcopalian), but I pray SEVEN times a day: Immediately upon waking; before each of my three meals; mid-morning; mid-afternoon; and immediately before retiring. I find (and my friends and associates have commented) that I am a much calmer, less stressed-out person since I started this practice 6 years ago.
Again: Please discuss your questions with your parents and your spiritual leader, and maybe with a young, intelligent, non-judgmental person at your Mosque.
God bless you, my friend!
PS: I just read the response from "Angel," and agree wholeheartedly with her.
All I will say is this: Muslims emphasize modesty, and much in modern American culture militates against that. In fact, the concepts of modesty, grace, and elegance seem to have disappeared from the American youth culture. Maybe it's our loss.
Yes, praying 5 times a day is one of the Pillars of Islam, so it's a requirement. But you know what? It isn't hard, and there are real personal benefits to doing it. I am not Muslim (I am Episcopalian), but I pray SEVEN times a day: Immediately upon waking; before each of my three meals; mid-morning; mid-afternoon; and immediately before retiring. I find (and my friends and associates have commented) that I am a much calmer, less stressed-out person since I started this practice 6 years ago.
Again: Please discuss your questions with your parents and your spiritual leader, and maybe with a young, intelligent, non-judgmental person at your Mosque.
God bless you, my friend!
PS: I just read the response from "Angel," and agree wholeheartedly with her.