The girl was her ex-husband’s first child from a previous relationship and had always lived with her biological mother in the village.
When the girl was about to join high school, family members decided she should spend holidays in the city at Waridi’s home.
She arrived with Waridi’s mother-in-law, who introduced Waridi as the girl’s “mother” and ordered the teenager to call her mum.
Waridi felt uncomfortable with this and decided to speak up immediately.
Waridi calmly explained that she could not replace the girl’s real mother. She told her step-daughter that she was a step-mum and suggested respectful alternatives like Aunt Rose or step-mum.
She said the title “mother” comes with heavy responsibility, which she was not ready to take on fully.
However, Waridi made it clear that the girl was welcome in the home. She assured her that she would be treated equally with her other children.
Food, clothes, house chores, and even discipline would be shared fairly among all children, without favoritism.
Waridi also clearly explained financial responsibilities. She said school fees and school shopping were the responsibility of the girl’s biological parents.
If her father failed to provide fully, the girl should contact her biological mother, not Waridi.
Although her mother-in-law was shocked by her honesty, Waridi said this clear communication helped them live peacefully.
Over time, the step-daughter respected her boundaries and even developed a strong bond with her. Waridi believes that being honest and setting rules early makes family life easier and avoids future conflict.
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