WIDOWHOOD is the period of mourning for a spouse who has kicked the bucket. This is a critical point in time in the life of the affected or living partner. When someone so dear and close at heart to one is dead, It may seem as if life is caving in on such an individual because one who is an integral part of the person is gone and no more.
This has caused many pains and sorrows to different persons depending on such an individual’s nature and ability to withstand the storms of life.
In Africa, women are subjected to different forms of torments both physically and psychologically, some unimaginable treatment by the late husband’s family. Such inhuman acts may be in the form of bathing and or drinking the corpse bathed water, sleeping overnight in a closed room, untidy treatment like not being allowed to bath for days, shaving of the hairs, amongst others. These are the nefarious situations meted on widows.
African beliefs are still very crude and therefore not encouraging. Even when the aforementioned attributes are common, there can be some form of rescue strategies considering the stance and plans of the widow. Freedom starts from the mindset. The way a man thinks will definitely form and affect what happens in his/her life. The world is fast changing, many things around us today can influence our decision. People and associations are springing up daily to combat these ugly trend.
Help is vital and important to a widow who is psychologically, emotionally and economically challenged. For stability and health, there are people who have interest in taking care of this category of people in our ecosystem.
Many non-governmental organisations are established to help alleviate the plight of widows. For example TabithaNewLife Foundation is well grounded to spread smiles within their capacity though new in the business of humanitarian services but has lifted so many widows and widowers in feeding and starting petty trade.
The immediate response after the death of the spouse might be taken care of by families and friends but after a while it becomes a personal issue which if not properly handled by getting assistance in no time led to total derailment and derangement.
Another point of help is the government, in the civilised world database are usually stored for different purposes chief among these is the status of the citizens which provide adequate information about individuals thereby discovering the need of individuals. In these environments, these cases would be attended to as soon as reported. The opposite is what we witness in Africa. If the spouse does not leave tangible and worthy assets. It might be the beginning of suffering for the widow. Lately, some government institutions are rising up to the challenge.
The corona virus pandemic has drawn the attention of various authorities to up their game in this area. The widows are being considered for succour better than before. Subsequently, help can also emanate from self. Talents and skills well deployed and activated could lift widows out of impoverishment. Then Again, a popular saying states that; “self-help is the best help for an individual.” What you know and put into use will serve better and gainfully well. To develop entrepreneurial capabilities is very strategic. Setting out in this pace and gradually building the business. Once it is deliberate and consistent, the way to established business is sure.
Education and awareness can help in the eradication of some of this obnoxious beliefs and treatment of widows. Sensitization could mean organising workshops, conferences, seminars in developing ideas that could enhance their productivity. This will give them sense of belonging and integration into the society.
Creativity and innovative ideas from well-meaning individuals and organisations towards the betterment of the lives of widows. The hope they have is to continue life on a fresh note. What will keep them are the newly improved ways of doing things that translate to ease of lives and impact positively on the society in such manners that guarantee their assurances of gaining back their position and/or be better personalities.
When all these are explored intrinsically the effects will be more cushioned for the widow to live a better life even after the demise of a loved one.
Olatunji, President, Tabitha New Life Foundation can be reached via Email: tabithanewlifefoundation@gmail.com or 07081657473, 07034543336, 08028167766.
Very salient points to boost the world of widowhood thereby giving them hope in the lost world.
This is a lofty idea however, it will be very good if you can also make provision for widowers too, we also want to be part of the opportunity. Thanks
They are sailient points to boost the world of widowhood