Forgiveness is essential to finding happiness

The Randburg-based Vuka Foundation is hoping to be a game changer for disempowered women in Alex, by helping them to heal and to teach them to forgive those who wronged them.

This was said by the foundation’s Funiwe Nousi at an inaugural meeting of a support group at a 6th Avenue home and soup kitchen operated by Nomsa Sibiya.

Nousi said the support group will empower hundreds of women who are struggling to cope with the daily stress, which could be alleviated if they bonded, advised each other and learnt to forgive as they forge ahead in life.

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“The group will be a support network for them to be there for each other, rather than competing and talking ill of and laughing at each other. They first need to heal within before learning to forgive, peddling negative and destructive gossip caused by the demon of jealousy, which draws women backwards,” Nousi said.

Sibiya added that those who feel challenged the most are disabled and illiterate women who fear to venture out because of embarrassment. She advised this should not be regarded as an inability.

“They will only feel free when they open up in support groups where members won’t judge but encourage openness while inculcating positive values and healing,” she said.

She also advised against feeling ashamed when gossiped about, saying exposure to problems in a support group is part of developing self-reliance, defence against discrimination and even abuse at the hands of spouses.

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She said it will also assist to prevent against contemplated suicides where people want to ‘end their misery’. This was said in reference to reported incidents of some women administering poison to themselves and their children to end their suffering.

Sindiswa Sangcozi said the group will also provide skills to guide daughters and other siblings on how to release pent-up anger and desperation, which lead to substance abuse and being vulnerable to exploitation.

Mary Tsongoane urged women to seek spiritual support, develop neighbourly relationships and provide positive nurturing in children.