Woman Between Islam and Western Society
11. Success in Marriage
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place in their own home. The undercurrent of
tension mounts, leading to a situation which is
disastrous for all concerned.
A child who has his own mother to stand by him
and show him affection feels safe and secure. But
the orphaned child, the stepchild, is never sure of
his ground. Unless his stepmother gives him
constant reassurance in the form of interest and
affection, he is bound to feel neglected and
humiliated. It is the feeling of humiliation which
becomes the most problematic in a joint family.
But there is a simple solution to this imbroglio.
The stepmother must realize that some restraint
must be shown in her display of love for her own
off-spring — something which will do them no
harm, because they are already secure in the
knowledge that this is their own, real mother —
and she must also learn to be more effusive in
displaying affection for her stepchildren. And
then, whatever the circumstances, keeping her
emotions under control and showing unfailing
courtesy at all times helps to prevent any possible
misunderstanding.
