TEKLA

As I was walking home from work last night at around 6:00 PM, I passed by the house of my friend. I stopped for a minute and thought about her. For simplicity, let me call her \"Tekla\"

Tekla and I have known each other since 1995. She and I worked in the same university but she was based in one college while I am based in the central administration. We share similar interests and faith although we attend separate churches.

Tekla lives just outside the campus. Since there was no concrete fence between the campus and the private lots outside, her house is visible. Her house is simple but is open to everyone especially during her birthday in December. She is a people person and loves to chat with anyone..

This friend of mine retired some years ago.That gave her more time to manage her ticketing business in town. Every morning I would pass by her as she sits along the road waiting for her ride. Yesterday, however, I noted that she was not in her waiting place again. I have not seen her for may mornings now. I wondered why. When I arrived at my office, I found the answer.

According to my colleagues, Tekla's son is being hunted by the police for raping and physically hurting his 17 year old daughter. What is worse is that the crime had been going on since the girl was only 11 years old! The mother was unaware of this horror because she is working even on Saturdays while Tekla's son would be home, jobless and drunk most of the time!

The Women's Desk personnel (policewomen) and the Social Welfare staff (all women) have already talked with the child and the mother but I am not sure if any authority has taken statements from Tekla. Although my friend is living alone, about 2 kilometers away from her abusive son, she would know something that could support her grandchild's accusations.

On the second thought, I doubt if she would say anything against her son. Tekla is a doting mother to all her children. When they need her help, she would be there for them. Now, can she bear to see her son go to jail without chance of parole? Can justice overpower her love for her son? But does she not pity her grandchild? Does she favor her son more? These questions are churning and whirling in my mind.

I would like to talk to Tekla but I am afraid. Why should I dare when INCEST is a forbidden topic? I feel I should not. I am not a professional counselor or legal officer. On the other hand, I can listen and pray for her, the victim and rest of the family. But how do I approach her and when?

Socio-cultural factors stop Tekla from talking and me from approaching her. My friend is troubled and so am I, Meanwhile, I'll just let my thoughts and feelings out through World Pulse.I am glad there is a platform where I can do so. If anyone jumps on board and shares her/his opinion about this case, I would be relieved somehow.