Ms. X, now over 60 years old, shared with psychologist To Nhi A about her journey of more than 40 years as a daughter-in-law with many bitterness. Married at the age of 22, after a matchmaking, Ms. X followed her husband to Ben Tre (Vinh Long) - where her husband's family had seven siblings, living a simple and gentle life. In the early days, her mother-in-law treated her well, considering her as her own child. Things only changed when she gave birth to her first child and was advised by her mother-in-law to stay alone.
The couple had to borrow money from everywhere to build a small house on the land given by their mother-in-law. A peaceful life did not last long. When land prices in the region began to increase, conflicts am-tingly broke out. Her mother-in-law gave many reasons for delaying the transfer of the name, even cutting off water and power, causing her family to struggle.
"She goes to talk to her neighbors about the land, making things difficult. I felt like I was kicked out of my own house, Ms. X said in a choked voice.
With financial difficulties, the couple decided to go to Saigon to make a living. Her husband is a security guard, Ms. X applied to be a garment worker. Thanks to her hard work, she was promoted to the position of Deputy Director of the workshop, with a more stable income.
But the joy was short-lived when in the countryside, her mother-in-law quietly sold the house that the couple had sweated to build, considering it her personal property. Her brother-in-law even threatened her loudly when Ms. X objected. Too hurt, the couple decided to "let go" of their husband's family and focus on taking care of their small family.
Many years later, her mother-in-law suddenly came to her to ask for help for her youngest son to break up the couple. Despite having suffered many regrets, Ms. X is still hesitant. The one who helped her make the decision was her eldest son, when he said: "Mom and Dad help grandfather, it's like paying off a debt."
That statement moved her and she chose to act tolerantly, ending her past with so much pain.
Ms. X confided: "The belief in putting things in the wrong place once caused me to lose both material and spiritual things, but I still maintained my humanity and piety. Thanks to those events, I am stronger and appreciate the present."
Dr. To Nhi A expressed sympathy: Luckily, I lost my home when I was young and had the strength to rebuild it. Although her husband is gentle, he is still by her side and does not abandon her. Her two children are also grown up and understand each other. Everything is over, the important thing is that you are safe".
Ms. X's story moved the audience not only because of the pain of loss, but also because of the way the woman chose to face it with kindness and forgiveness.
