“My Father Physically and Emotionally Abused My Mother”

Ditshwanelo's Story

“My father physically and emotionally abused my mother. Witnessing their constant fighting and the mistreatment of my mother deeply affected me.

Our family went through a lot of turmoil, and the chaos and financial struggles were overwhelming. As the youngest of seven children, I felt helpless and tried to cling to my mother for support. I vividly remember one night when my father pushed my mother out of the house during an argument. The situation affected my studies, and every challenge I faced reminded me that there was no peace at home.

My relationship with my father was strained. I was the family’s black sheep because I resembled my mother more than my siblings. My father often verbally abused me, claiming I did not belong to the family. These words fuelled my hatred towards him, leading me to disrespect him openly. Unfortunately, this bitterness and aggression isolated me and affected my relationships with my siblings.

However, my life improved when my sister invited me to The Universal Church services. During the service, I felt a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. The teachings at the church focused on forgiveness, and I learned that I need to forgive to be forgiven and move forward. With the help of God, I mustered the courage to forgive my father and seek forgiveness from him. Sadly, he passed away shortly after our reconciliation because he was ill.

This experience made me realize the importance of the Holy Spirit in my life. I understood that I could not truly transform or find peace without God.

My life is now full of blessings and I no longer harbor resentment. I work in a reputable company and can provide for my family. Only the Holy Spirit made this possible,” said Ditshwanelo.