I'm a new convert to Islam, but as I'm only 16, my parents still don't know that. I come from Croatia, and I would ask how bad is it when I'm unable to perform things like Ramadhaan fasting. I know I'm doing what I can, but it still bothers me... so, please help me with your answer. I know I should maybe tell them, but I think they are not ready yet, and I'm afraid something like that could destroy my family. Hoping for your reply.

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family, and all his companions.

First, we congratulate you on embracing Islam and we ask Allaah to assist you in being steadfast on this religion. There is no doubt that announcing your embracing Islam is a very important matter. By doing so, you avoid being embarrassed when performing your religious obligations like the apparent Islamic rites such as praying, fasting and so forth. Therefore, if you are able to inform your parents about your embracing Islam and are secure from being harmed or afflicted in your religion, then do so. But if you fear being harmed then there is no harm on you to conceal your faith; however, it is an obligation to perform what Allaah has commanded you to do according to your ability. The best thing that will help you practice your religion is to leave the environment that you are in at the moment by getting married to a Muslim man. In this regard you can seek the help of one of the righteous Muslim women or contact one of the Islamic organizations in the country where you are at the moment, or any other country. You also have to supplicate to Allaah as much as possible to make things easy for you and to make a way out of your problems and difficulties.

Allaah knows best.