Freedom is like the air, until we lose it. We do not truly realize its value. Freedom is one of the most essential human rights. Freedom means humans can think freely and express their thoughts and beliefs without fear. Freedom is one of the most basic human needs, but sadly not everyone enjoys it equally.
In this essay I want to explore the story of someone who has not seen any freedom. During a break at school, I noticed a new classmate sitting alone and quietly watching the others playing. I approached her, and after a moment of silence, she began to share her painful life story with me. Her words were heavy with sorrow and struggle. She was married at the age of sixteen, against her will, in a traditional family where such decisions were made without a girl’s knowledge or consent. She told me that the morning her mother informed her of the marriage, she was shocked and devastated. In desperation two days later, she attempted suicide by swallowing a large number of pills. Fortunately, her family saved her life, and her father and husband promised to let her continue her education. But deep inside, she knew it was a lie. Despite the promises, she faced daily violence and harsh treatment from both her husband and her family.
Her story, however, was not only about herself. She spoke of many other women, mothers, daughters, and girls who had never experienced freedom. These women, just like her, had been forced into marriage, denied education, and silenced by cultural norms. Their dreams were crushed, and they had no hope for the future. They were prisoners in their own lives, living in fear, without the right to speak, choose, or even think freely.
All in all, freedom is not just a right, it is the foundation for growth, peace, and human dignity. A society that deprives its women of freedom will never see true development. We must raise our voices for those who are silenced and create a world where all people, especially women, can live with dignity, choice, and hope.
– Amina
Letter received from our students participating in our Mentorship program. Name and text altered for protection of our students and for grammatical changes.
