Posted to Sister Zeph’s Journal
By Sister Zeph
On 21 January, 2015
Tahira is a 20-year-old young woman who faced a challenging upbringing. She was adopted by her father’s third wife when she was just 2 years old. Her father, who already had seven children from his other two wives, did not provide much care for Tahira. While his other two wives and their children lived in a comfortable home in a big city, Tahira and her mother were sent to our village, where they purchased a small house and began residing. Tahira missed out on the love of siblings, a father, and a brother, and she witnessed her mother being subjected to ridicule for her inability to have more children.
Despite facing these hardships, Tahira persisted in her studies and completed her matriculation. However, due to financial constraints, she was unable to attend college for further education. At a very young age, she became a beautician and established her own beauty salon. Last year, during a religious event in her street, I was invited to attend by a few of my students. Although I went with the best intentions, Tahira seemed to resent my presence because of my Christian background. She remained silent during my visit, but her disapproval was evident on her face. It was painful for me, but I stayed for the sake of my students, who had invited me out of respect and affection. When I left, Tahira physically assaulted the students who had invited me, and one of the girls still suffers from arm pain as a result of the beating. Unfortunately, it’s common in our culture to discipline children in this manner. I later learned that Tahira had shouted at them, called me derogatory names, and attempted to spread rumors among parents that I exploited their daughters’ photos for personal gain. However, I assured my students that Tahira’s behavior was a result of her not knowing me well, and I believed that she would change her opinion once she got to know me.
Six months ago, when I began enrolling students for our English language class, Tahira and her mother applied for admission. My family treated them with respect, and I accepted her into the class. Over time, Tahira and I became friends, and she even brought me a gift one day. I never let on that I was aware of what she had said about me in the past. We never discussed religion because all religions in the world teach us to respect and love one another, a common thread that unites them. I believe this is the essence of all religions.
Tahira observed that I focused on capturing students’ educational activities in photos rather than their faces. She saw that I collected small contributions to help our students purchase books and pens. She noticed that I treated everyone with respect and never insulted anyone. She witnessed my capacity for love and my equal respect for all religions. She saw that I was a woman of action, not just words. This Christmas, she surprised me with a Christmas cake, and her mother shared with me that Tahira aspires to be like me. I am her role model, and her mother encourages her daily to learn kindness from Sister Zeph.
Tahira’s dream is to become an air hostess, and she is currently pursuing her intermediate studies. She is also taking martial arts classes. Sometimes, when people face difficulties and are subjected to disrespectful behavior, they may develop anger. However, by treating them with a positive attitude, we can help them change their perspective and think positively.
Religions were created to unite people, not to foster conflict. We can promote understanding by ceasing complaints and showing respect and care for one another.