Shahla: A Journey of Resilience and Motherly Love

Shahla’s Journey: From Heartbreak to Hope

BY:Khan

I first heard about Shahla through my wife, who was good friends with her. Shahla owned a beauty parlor in our neighborhood, and my wife often praised her skills and kind nature. One day, my wife told me about Shahla’s life, which seemed filled with more sorrows than joys. I am sharing Shahla’s story as my wife recounted it.

I met Shahla at her beauty parlor. I had heard so much praise about her that I had high expectations, and seeing her in person, I realized the accolades were completely justified. Shahla was a smart, attractive young woman with exceptional manners. She treated everyone with warmth and respect, and despite charging less than other salons, she never compromised on quality.

Women who visited her once kept returning—not just for her affordable rates, but for her cheerful, humble nature. I, too, became a regular client, and over time, my friendship with Shahla grew.

Shahla confided in me about her past. She had been married a few years earlier, but her husband struggled with substance abuse, which led to their divorce. I tried to comfort her, telling her that perhaps it was life’s way of preparing her for someone better. Yet, Shahla seemed resigned and unwilling to take any risks with her heart again.

As time passed, our friendship deepened. Later, a marriage proposal came for me. I got engaged quickly and married soon after. Shahla helped me wholeheartedly prepare for my wedding. After my marriage, I moved to another city, and our meetings became infrequent.

One day, I visited my parents and decided to see Shahla. Her mother was also at the parlor, and she told me that Shahla had received a very good marriage proposal. She urged me to convince Shahla that parents cannot always be there to guide one through life. I assured her that Shahla would eventually agree to marry.

A few months later, I learned with both joy and surprise that Shahla had indeed married. When I visited her parlor, I was told by a young girl there that Shahla had sold the parlor and moved to her in-laws’ home. The girl advised me to treat her work with the same dedication as Shahla did.

I was anxious and confused. How could Shahla, the owner of a well-known parlor, simply sell it? I shared my concerns with my mother, who comforted me, saying that Shahla must have made the decision thoughtfully.

Around the same time, my husband and I had a disagreement, and I had to leave my home temporarily and stay with my parents. Life was stressful, but I found a job at a school to support myself. On my way to school, I met Shahla’s mother, who told me that Shahla was fine and encouraged me to visit her.

When I finally went to see Shahla, she greeted me warmly. Nearby, a small, chubby child was lying on a swing. Shahla pointed at him and said, “This is your nephew; you are now an aunt.” I picked him up, overwhelmed with happiness, and showered him with prayers and blessings. Shahla smiled and said, “You can also help take care of him.”

I asked about the child’s father, and Shahla explained that he was in Saudi Arabia but called regularly and sent enough money for their needs. Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke, and I immediately sensed that there was more to the story.

After some insistence, Shahla revealed the truth: her marriage had ended in divorce, and her ex-husband had even threatened to take the child away. The small parlor at home was now sufficient for her and her son’s needs. Shahla admitted that sometimes she felt hopeless and thought about ending her life, but the thought of her child kept her going.

I encouraged her to take legal action to protect her son, but Shahla refused, fearing her ex-husband’s behavior in court. Instead, she turned to prayer, seeking Allah’s help. Miraculously, her ex-husband eventually returned the child to her willingly. Shahla was overjoyed and grateful beyond words.

Today, Shahla’s life revolves around her child’s education and well-being. Her little home parlor provides enough for their needs. Though she occasionally recalls the hardships of her past and falls ill from the emotional strain, her love for her son keeps her motivated. Her ultimate goal is to educate him well and raise him into a good human being.

Shahla’s journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and a mother’s unwavering love. Despite the struggles and heartbreak she endured, her determination and faith in Allah’s justice allowed her to reclaim her life and happiness. Her story reminds us that no matter how dark life may seem, hope and perseverance can light the way forward.