The Story of Rinad

My husband works in Saudi Arabia, and our marriage has always been difficult. He has a narcissistic personality that often left me feeling small and unheard. He would humiliate me, sometimes in front of our children, and would make even the simplest family decisions without consulting me while he was away. Months could pass without any meaningful communication, except for brief interactions through the kids. I felt neglected, crushed, and stripped of my value. Slowly, I began to lose confidence and even respect for myself. I found myself snapping at my children, releasing my frustration in ways I regretted, which only deepened my pain and guilt.

When I first reached out for help through Arab Woman Today, I was exhausted, frustrated, and on the edge of a breakdown. I needed guidance, someone to remind me that I still had worth. Through phone calls, online sessions, and even home visits, I found encouragement and practical support. I was guided to process my emotions, to understand myself better, and to communicate with my husband in calmer, more constructive ways. I also participated in three relational coaching workshops, where I learned how to navigate marriage challenges, manage anger, and strengthen my emotional resilience.

Little by little, change began to take root inside me. I began to see hope where there had only been despair. I started to feel that God was speaking directly to my heart through these sessions, providing wisdom and comfort that I had not felt in years. I remember thinking: "My life and my children’s lives are saved. I now have hope for change and for living differently. I can be understanding and present for my children instead of causing them pain. It feels as though God sent an angel to lift me up."

Over time, I learned to replace my anger and resentment toward my husband with empathy, recognizing that he, too, is broken and in need of help. But the journey was not without challenges. After three months, tensions escalated, communication broke down, and he even made threats. I felt terrified about his upcoming visit to Jordan. I didn’t want separation or divorce, yet I was deeply afraid of facing him.
With encouragement and prayerful guidance, I approached the visit as an opportunity to express my heart with honesty and calm. I wrote down everything I wanted to say, choosing words that were truthful but not confrontational, and I prayed that God would give me wisdom, courage, and peace.

When my husband finally arrived for his two-week visit, something extraordinary happened. Instead of arguments and shouting, we actually talked. For the first time in years, we communicated calmly and openly. I asked him, “Where do you see our family ten years from now?” I expressed my love and commitment, but I also spoke of my need for respect and stability to raise our children well. Together, we agreed on financial matters and created a plan that ensured I would no longer feel humiliated or powerless.
I could hardly believe the calmness, clarity, and wisdom that came out of me. It was not my strength; it was God’s. For the first time in a very long time, I experienced a real conversation with my husband without fear or conflict.

When he returned to Saudi Arabia, I felt a profound sense of peace. My spirit, which had been crushed for so long, felt alive again. I am no longer the Rinad who was afraid, angry, and hopeless. Today, I have hope, strength, and a renewed sense of value in God’s eyes. I can be fully present for my children, guide them with love, and continue to grow spiritually and emotionally. My journey with Arab Woman Today transformed my life, showing me that even in the midst of brokenness, restoration, hope, and God’s love are possible.