Jhuma discovered after her marriage that her husband’s family had lied to her. They had told her that he worked as an officer in a nationalized bank and owned a bus for public transport. But slowly, the truth came out: he was just a clerk, and the bus belonged to a relative of his. This revelation cut deep into Jhuma’s heart. She felt betrayed and wondered why anyone would start a lifelong relationship based on lies.
As if that weren’t enough, her mother-in-law and other relatives constantly pressured her for dowry and criticized her for every gift she received at the wedding. The weight of their expectations crushed her spirit.
A year later, Jhuma became pregnant, but the pressure from her in-laws only grew stronger. They whispered to her husband, and he believed their words without question. Instead of standing by her, he would come home and take out his frustration on her, sometimes hitting her with his belt. During a time when she needed love and support, she found herself in pain and agony.
Jhuma often cried out to God, asking why her sisters-in-law were treated so well in their maternal homes while she, the only daughter in her family, was mistreated. She questioned what she had done wrong to deserve such a life, such a family, and such a husband.
The stress of her situation affected her unborn child, and when she gave birth, the baby girl was mentally disabled. Jhuma felt utterly devastated. She searched for help but found none. For the sake of family dignity, she endured the hardships of her marriage. Eventually, she had a son, and thankfully, he was healthy. It took her husband until he was in his forties to realize that Jhuma was a good woman. For a brief moment, life seemed a little brighter.
However, when her husband turned fifty, he made a poor investment in real estate, taking out a large loan that didn’t pay off. This decision took a toll on his mental health, and he became dependent on medication to cope. When he turned fifty-four, he suffered a brain stroke in their bathroom, and Jhuma rushed him to the hospital.
While she was panicking and trying to save her husband, her relatives cruelly mocked her for the nightdress she wore, showing no understanding of her distress. After ten long days in the hospital, her husband passed away. Now, Jhuma was left with a massive loan, a son still in college, and a daughter who needed special care.
Throughout her life, Jhuma had settled for less, sacrificing her own happiness for the dignity of her family. Now, she faced an even greater challenge. She questioned her fate, her faith in God, and the choices she had made. She wondered what mistakes had led to such a painful life. Would she ever find peace?
Was it fair for her to endure such suffering? What joy had she ever known? How would she raise her two children and meet their needs? With so many unanswered questions, Jhuma felt lost, but she knew she couldn’t give up. Her children looked up to her, and she had to find a way to carry on.
Questions to Reflect On:
What does Jhuma's experience teach us about the consequences of dishonesty in relationships?
How can society better support women like Jhuma who face immense pressure and hardship?
In what ways can we ensure that family dignity does not come at the cost of individual well-being?
What steps can be taken to help those who are suffering find the strength to overcome their challenges?
How can we create a community that uplifts individuals facing struggles rather than judging them?
Feel free to share your thoughts !
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