I was married too young, without choice, into a family that never truly accepted me. My husband confessed he loved someone else and left me with divorce papers. My parents turned me away, saying their duty was done. I was broken, abandoned, and alone.

But a true friend gave me shelter. With her support, I found a small job in a packaging company. I worked day and night shifts, crying silently but refusing to give up. My first salary was just fifteen thousand rupees, but it felt like a million — because it was earned with dignity.

Step by step, I grew. Within two years, I became a manager. Fifteen years later, I hold a senior position in the same company. The same family that once rejected me now respects me.

My journey taught me one truth: nothing is greater than self-respect.
When blood ties fail, friendship saves you.
When the world doubts you, hard work defines you.
And when life breaks you, self-respect rebuilds you.

— Usha Maniar☕