My name is Bahar. In 2014, when ISIS came to Shingal and people fled, my family went to Turkey. That’s where I was born. When I turned five years old, my parents were separated. I came to Kabartu camp to live with my father's aunt. My sister and I have stayed with her since then. Everything became very complicated, and most of the time, I felt sad and uncomfortable. I was fighting with my younger sister and didn’t want to listen to anyone. Every time I fought with my friends, I made all of them sad. No one wanted to be with me. Even when I saw strangers, I would fight with them. I didn’t understand why I was acting this way and having these feelings.
I started attending the Heroes Journey program, and all of a sudden, I felt comfortable. I enjoyed spending time with other kids.
In the session about emotions, I realized that I was hurting others because I felt pain inside my heart. Before, I was living with my parents, and suddenly everything disappeared! I left my home, and my friends. I learned to understand my feelings and how to deal with them to feel calm and relaxed.
I most liked the power of kindness. It changed my attitude, and I started being kind to everyone, and everyone became very friendly with me! Also, in the courage session, the courage to forgive helped me think better and helped me forgive my mother for leaving my sister and me.
Because of the generosity of people like you, children like Bahar have been able to find the courage to forgive, and are moving toward a hopeful future. BUT there are thousands of people with stories that are yet to end with hope. Help Tutapona provide emotional healing by donating today.
*Name has been changed to protect the individual and family.