Born in Great Lakes Naval Station, Waukegan, Illinois, the author now identifies as Abdul-Jihad Islam. He grew up in a military family, moving frequently before settling in Little Compton, Rhode Island. Raised in a Catholic household alongside his siblings Fred, Cookie, Bunny, and Tanya, he joined the Navy at 17. During his military service, he explored his Christian faith through an organization called the Navigators, which emphasized mentorship and personal growth.

However, his life took a darker turn, leading him into drug use and armed robbery while stationed in Arlington, Virginia. Sentenced to 34 years in prison, it was in this challenging environment that he discovered Islam through a former Nation of Islam member. Reading the Holy Qur’an unveiled a profound understanding of the Oneness of God, which compelled him to embrace the Muslim faith wholeheartedly by taking the Kalima Shahada.

After his release in 1990, Abdul became actively involved in the Muslim community. He retired from the federal government in 2022 and is an active member of Masjid Bilal in Richmond, Virginia, one of the mu’adhdhin and provides baked goods to the ummat.

Throughout his journey, he has been supported by a close-knit family, particularly his sister Bunny, whose unwavering support has played a vital role in his life. Abdul-Jihad Islam’s story is a testament to strength, redemption, and the transformative power of faith.