I have drunk alcohol. Is it true I can’t pray for 40 days and 40 nights? And the people I get taught by speak with aggression and hate; is it right for them to do this? I am looking to follow the right path at this point but want to be guided with love and understanding. Should these people still show anger and hate while teaching or educating?

It is not true at all that you cannot pray for this period of time. You just need to repent before the Almighty and request him to forgive you. It is not the sin which matters so much before God as the attitude one should adopt after it. So invoke His blessings through prayers and supplications as soon as you can.

Unfortunately, some Muslim teachers and preachers are very harsh and stern in such matters. They should realize that such an attitude is counterproductive to their aims. Please just read a good translation of the Qur’ān and ignore such harshness as much as you can. Do remember that the harshness you bear will be a source of reward for you by the Almighty.