Information & Support

“I feel bride price has created a power imbalance that leaves me feeling powerless and devalued.”

“It feels like I’m not truly a partner but rather a possession.”

The Weight of Transactions

“I feel bride price has created a power imbalance that leaves me feeling powerless and devalued.”

In my marriage, I feel trapped in a web of obligations and expectations. The concept of bride price looms over me like a shadow, constantly reminding me that I was not chosen but bought. I am expected to serve my husband and his family, often at the expense of my own needs and desires.

• How can I be seen as a partner when my worth is measured in monetary terms?

• Is my identity forever tied to a financial transaction?

If I make mistakes or fail to meet their expectations, I am reminded of my worth in terms of that payment. It feels as though my independence is stripped away, leaving me feeling powerless and devalued.

I often wonder how love can exist in a relationship built on transactions.

The Fear of Repercussions

“It feels like I’m not truly a partner but rather a possession.”

When I try to express my feelings or stand up for myself, I am dismissed and told to be grateful for what I have. The expectation to be an obedient wife looms large, and I live in fear of being judged or blamed by my family and community for challenging the status quo.

• What happens to my happiness in a world that sees me as property?

• Will I ever be able to voice my needs without fear of retribution?

The pressure to maintain this picture-perfect marriage feels suffocating. I often wonder if my happiness will ever matter when I am viewed as a belonging rather than a person with desires and dreams. The thought of leaving is not just about me; it’s about the financial burden my departure would create for my family, and that fear holds me captive.

The Isolation of Expectations

“I feel like I’m not truly a partner but rather a possession.”

I endure the pain and humiliation of being treated as less than human, yet I feel I have no choice but to stay and endure this reality. Leaving would bring shame and financial strain upon my family, and that thought weighs heavily on me.

• How can I find freedom when the stakes are so high?

• Is it possible to reclaim my identity amidst such overwhelming expectations?

The isolation of knowing that my happiness is secondary to cultural expectations is heartbreaking. I long for the freedom to make my own choices and to be seen as a whole person, deserving of love and respect.

If this resonates with you, know that you are not alone. There are those who understand your pain and are dedicated to helping you reclaim your voice and autonomy