WHEN FREEDOM LEADS ASTRAY

Tife had always dreamed of the day she would leave home and live life on her own terms. Growing up in a strict, religious home, her parents controlled every aspect of her life. They dictated what she wore, where she went, and even the kind of friends she kept. They never allowed her to attend parties, wear makeup, or have a phone until she finished secondary school. “Tife, always remember who you are,” her mother often told her. “The world is full of temptations, but you must stay on the right path.” Her father was even stricter. “You are not like other children, Tife,” he would say. “We have raised you to be different. Don’t bring shame to this family.” Tife nodded whenever they spoke, but deep inside, she felt trapped. She longed for freedom, for a life where she could make her own choices. Finally, that day came. She gained admission to the university, and as she stood at the school gate after her matriculation, watching her parents leave, she smiled to herself. Now, I can fin...