The four rules regarding imitation include the prohibition of imitating the Kafar in celebrations, grooming, and rituals, as it makes one counted amongst them, and dressing like the Kafar is considered haram.

The two criteria for celebrating holidays in Islam involve avoiding imitating non-Muslims and abstaining from pagan festivals. The two primary opinions regarding celebrating other holidays are that some scholars consider any festival besides Eid as an innovation in Islam, while mainstream Islamic scholars dispute this by emphasizing the importance of upholding the principles of Islam while adapting to different cultures.

During colonization, the mindset of people was impacted as Muslims, especially in Muslim lands, felt pressured to adopt European culture, which was seen as an inferiority complex and a deviation from their own traditions.

The ruling on dresses in Islam involves differentiating between ritual and non-ritual attire. Religious attire should adhere to the principles of modesty, while non-religious attire should reflect the collective faith and reinforce the internal attitude of the individual.

As for specific holidays, the ruling on celebrating birthdays, Halloween, Christmas, Independence Day, Mehendi events, Thanksgiving, and anniversaries varies. Mainstream scholars dispute the permissibility of these holidays based on their origins and possible conflicts with Islamic beliefs.

For converts, handling these situations involves understanding the Islamic perspective on celebrations and respectfully practicing their faith in diverse social settings while avoiding what contradicts Islamic teachings.

The ruling on celebrating birthdays in Islam is controversial among scholars. Some view it as permissible, while others consider it a non-Islamic cultural practice, possibly linked to imitating non-Muslims. Dr. Yasir Qadhi, in the video, mentions the prohibition of imitating non-Muslims (00:14), which could relate to the viewpoint against birthday celebrations. However, it's essential to understand the varied opinions and decide based on one's personal understanding and adherence to Islamic teachings.

Similarly, Halloween involves aspects of imitating non-Muslim practices, as it has pagan origins. However, participation in Halloween activities without any religious involvement or intentions might not be explicitly forbidden. Understanding the origins and intent behind Halloween can guide an individual's decision, in accordance with Islamic principles.

Concerning Christmas, it's often associated with religious significance, which may conflict with Islamic beliefs. However, celebrating aspects such as giving to charity or spending time with family, divorced from religious connotations, may not necessarily contradict Islamic teachings.

Independence Day is a secular commemoration, and participating in events that do not contradict Islamic beliefs is permissible. While Mehendi events, Thanksgiving, and anniversaries may involve cultural customs, their permissibility depends on the specific practices and their alignment with Islamic teachings.

Saying "Merry Christmas" and exchanging gifts in December, such as in an office setting, can be viewed in the context of Islamic teachings on interacting with non-Muslims (1:23:03). Such actions should not involve participation in religious rituals or offerings.

For a convert, navigating these situations involves seeking knowledge from trusted Islamic sources, consulting knowledgeable individuals, and making informed decisions based on Islamic teachings and personal conviction. Understanding the reasoning behind each ruling and seeking guidance from scholars can provide clarity in handling these circumstances.