One of the most important lessons taught in the Transformational Community Development (TCD) program is supporting women emotionally and behaviorally, especially in their relationships with others. Umm Karim recounts her experience, sharing, “I am a mother of four. My husband and I grew up in a difficult rural environment, where it was unusual for a man to help his mother or participate in household chores. I shouldered significant responsibilities within the home and family. Over time, I gradually began to lose my energy and enthusiasm for working at home. I began to feel physically and mentally exhausted, and I withdrew from social relationships. After attending the TCD class, I learned to give myself the right to rest, proper nutrition, and to pursue a hobby I love. I also learned to ask my children for help with household chores, to manage my time consciously, and to prioritize my needs without feeling guilty.”

One of the most important lessons taught by the TCD program is how to support children psychologically and behaviorally, especially in their relationships with others, whether within the family, at school, or in the community. Mahrael, a child attending the TCD class, shared that she was upset with her friend. They had grown distant due to a simple disagreement, but she was holding it in her heart and didn’t know how to deal with it. After attending a TCD class on feelings, tolerance, and forgiveness, she understood that resentment can disrupt her relationships with the people she loves and that forgiveness doesn’t mean we accept wrongdoing, but it helps our hearts find peace.

Mahrael said after the class, “I was upset with my friend and didn’t talk to her, but now that I understand the lesson, I’m going to talk to her, make up with her, and say no to the argument.”

Thank you,

Written by Mariam, GHNI TCD Worker