In 2009, I was sent to Stella Maris College in Chennai to pursue my Bachelors in Social Work. As our Provincialate was in Bangalore, I had to go for a meeting there. I was returning to Chennai after the meeting, the same evening. As was the custom some of our MSC sisters accompanied each other to the railway station or bus stand when traveling to other cities. However, on this particular occasion, I was leaving alone. As my bus was at 10:00 PM, I planned to leave the house at 8:30 PM. When my fellow sisters and the Provincial came to bid me farewell, someone questioned why no one was accompanying me. To my surprise, our then Provincial, Sr. Sophy MSC, responded promptly, “She is a Little Lioness; she will manage by herself as she is a courageous sister.” These words have always motivated me. Before writing this article, I decided to look up the meaning of “Little Lioness” on Google. It described a “humanitarian and generous individual” who endeavors to make the world a better place and possesses the admirable trait of self-sacrifice. I am profoundly grateful to Sr. Sophy for recognizing my potential and placing her faith in me as a young sister. It is through God’s grace and the belief and trust shown by my superiors that I have become the person I am today. Trusting, respecting, and granting women their space is crucial; it empowers them to achieve wonders.
Women are indeed wonder makers. However, Mother Earth, though often referred to with maternal connotations, has sadly become the fourth most dangerous place in the world for women to live in. As a social worker, I have listened to stories of numerous women who face immense challenges and hardships. Shanu, grew up in difficult circumstances with an abusive and alcoholic father and a silent mother. Her early life was marred by fear and loneliness. Despite the distressing environment, she eventually had to marry Anjan to fulfill her mother’s wish. Tragically, Shanu’s marriage became another source of pain as her husband was already in love with someone else, leaving her feeling unwanted and insecure.
Sr Lini Sheeja MSC
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