Women’s Resilience in the Face of Loss: Their Hope for the Return of Missing Loved Ones
Asia and Hamda are two inspiring women who have shown remarkable strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. The disappearance of their loved ones has left a void in their lives, but they continue to hold onto hope for their return.
Asia, the eldest among her siblings, took on the responsibility of caring for her family at a young age after her father passed away. She became a mother, sister, and father figure to her siblings, even as the conflict engulfed their lives. Asia longs for the days before the conflict, when the anticipation of her brothers’ return from work filled the air. But now, the fading daylight only brings silence. The meals she prepares no longer taste the same. However, Asia remains determined to provide a normal childhood for her nephews, Layth and Gaith. She enrolled them in school, guiding them in their religious Islamic upbringing. Asia’s journey has been arduous, challenging societal norms and stepping up to fulfill her responsibilities. Even taking her nephews to the barbershop, which used to be a daunting task, no longer fazes her. She waits for them fearlessly, defying traditional expectations and judgments.
Hamda, a 68-year-old woman, also shares her story of resilience. Her husband, Ismael, is among the missing. Hamda embodies strength and determination, recalling how she fastened her belt and gathered her strength during crises. She looks back at her arranged marriage with a hint of humor, despite the challenges. On her wedding day, her husband’s vintage car broke down, and they had nothing for dinner. Amidst hunger, she had to ask for an uncooked eggplant from her husband’s field. Hamda treasures the memories of their shared moments, watching Ismael ride his bike to work and return with groceries. Now, she wakes up early every day to tend to the farmland and provide for her family. Her faith keeps her going, praying for Ismael and the other missing men to be alive or at peace. Hamda’s unwavering determination to attend every session of the Accompaniment Programme shows her commitment to supporting others going through similar circumstances.
The Saqlawiya Accompaniment Programme, led by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), provides support and guidance to families of the missing in dealing with emotional, economic, legal, and administrative challenges. By bringing these families together, the program aims to offer the necessary assistance. The stories of Asia, Hamda, and many other women highlight their resilience and unwavering hope for the return of their missing loved ones.
The disappearance of a loved one leaves an indescribable void, and the pain may never fully heal. However, the strength and determination of these women remind us of the power of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. While their stories may be unique, their shared experiences create a sense of unity and support. The Saqlawiya Accompaniment Programme plays a crucial role in providing these families with the resources they need to navigate their challenging journeys. As the search for their missing loved ones continues, these women remain unwavering in their hope for a reunion, inspiring others with their extraordinary courage and determination.
