A Story of Resilience: A Mother and Daughter Face Challenges Together

[Humaira Yasmin Peya]

I had a SALT conversation with my aunt, who is very close to me. I started by       asking how she and her daughter were doing. Then, I inquired if there was any story in her life that she felt particularly proud of. She seemed delighted, as no one had asked her anything like that before. I assured her that she could share her story with me, and I wouldn't tell anyone without her permission.

My aunt married against her family's wishes and has a daughter named Shorna, who is now 23 years old. Seven years ago, my aunt and her husband divorced. She has been living alone with her daughter since then. Despite her family's disapproval, she made the brave decision to leave her husband, who was abusive to both her and their daughter. One day, when her husband was assaulting her, Shorna intervened and threw him out of the house. This event led to their divorce seven days later. Despite facing criticism from their relatives, my aunt persisted and focused on her daughter's education, providing tutoring and tailoring services to afford her daughter a good schooling. Shorna excelled in her studies and is now a teacher, supporting her mother financially through online work.

Although my aunt faced taunts from others about her divorce, Shorna often stepped in to defend her mother's decision, asserting that their lives are better off without her father's abuse. Despite pressure to remarry, my aunt refused. Shorna, in turn, wants to fulfill all her mother's aspirations before considering marriage herself. Their bond is incredibly strong, with both sharing everything with each other and being each other's best friends. Shorna not go anywhere without her mother and does not even eat in any restaurant. Aunty is proud that her daughter supports her  and fights with everyone for her.

When aunty and her husband got divorced, her daughter told her to divorce and you will be much better.I will grow up and fulfill all your dreams.In these seven years, aunty's many small dreams have been fulfilled by her daughter. My aunt also told me that when they were in problem no one was there for them now they don't need anyone.She affirmed that she has no desire to reunite with her ex-husband.

M aunt revealed that her ex-husband has been attempting to reconcile, but she hasn't discussed this with Shorna yet. She asked me for advice on how to handle the situation. I responded, what are you thinking about this matter. Aunty told me it would be better if she talks about this with her daughter.

In this story I found everything about the SALT approach.

1-This story is about the bravery of a mother.

2-Bonding between mother and daughter

3-Good friend

4-Trust between mother and daughter.

5- sharing

6-learning

At the end, my aunt asked me to share her story with others. If there are others like her, they too will take courage after hearing his story. She also shared a picture of their mother and daughter with me.

What did I learn as a SALT facilitator:

• If SALT is done well, it helps people open up. As they narrate a powerful moment of their life they also share the difficulties they have faced.  I have known my aunt since childhood but heard this for the first time.
• I also learned that do not advise people, help them find their own solutions. Story written by: Humaira Yasmin Peya, Director Program, Bangladesh Rural Economic Development (BRED).

[Md. Shanawaz]

Such powerful reflections, Humaira Apa. So inspiring to hear from you.

[Shahrukh Atpade]

Wonderful 😊

[Rituu B. Nanda]

This is a  poignant and powerful story about your aunt and her daughter, Shorna, which show their resilience and deep bond amidst adversity. Much is possible when people, whether men or women decide to do something! Thanks a lot Humaira!