I Pled Not Guilty

By Meera Rashid

This book tells the story of an Emirati woman who, despite having a successful career, was tied to the chains of abuse and marginalization in the home front - in her personal life. She witnessed many obstacles when she tried to break free from her hazardous, abusive marital bond and live with mental sanity and peace. From social and religious ob

• Language: English
• Publisher: 24by7 Publishing
• Release date: Feb 19, 2024
• ISBN: 9788196578596

Book preview

Dedication

This book is dedicated to my children,

the light of my life who continue to inspire me to

tell stories that matter.

Preface

This book is dedicated to every woman who finds herself constrained by the intricate web of culture, religion, and society. It is a profound testament to the resilience and strength of women navigating complex intersections of these powerful influences.

Within the pages of this book, readers will encounter narratives that resonate with the shared experiences of countless women. It delves into the challenges and triumphs of those confronted with societal expectations, cultural norms, and religious doctrines that often limit their autonomy and opportunities.

The stories within these chapters offer a source of inspiration, empowerment, and solidarity. They provide a platform for women to see themselves reflected in the struggles and victories of others who have dared to challenge the status quo.

This book invites its readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, forging a path toward greater freedom, agency, and fulfillment. It acknowledges that the constraints imposed by culture, religion, and society are not insurmountable barriers but opportunities for transformation and growth.

To be precise, this book is a beacon of hope for women seeking to break free from these chains, encouraging them to embrace their unique identities, pursue their dreams, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women who refuse to be confined by the expectations of others and, in doing so, pave the way for a brighter and more liberated future.

February, 2024

Meera Rashid

Contents

Dedication

Preface

The Lovely Childhood: Sugar, Spice, And Everything Nice

A Leap into the Unknown

A Whirlwind Romance

A Captive Heart

Trapped in the Shadows

Tangled in the Web of Abuse

A Fragile Step  Towards Liberation

Breaking Free

Love Against All Odds

A New Beginning

Embracing the Journey Ahead: A New Beginning or The End…?

The Lovely Childhood: Sugar, Spice, And Everything Nice

Born in Dubai in 1977 to a conservative family deeply entwined with its traditions, my upbringing was intricately shaped by our cultural values. My parents came from very different backgrounds; my father was an Arab, and my mother, though born in UAE, had her roots in Iran. Thus, I grew up imbuing the best of Emirati and Persian cultures in me.

I was the second child and the first daughter of the family. The first child of our family, my elder brother, was 11 years older than me. My other two siblings, both girls, are around 2 and 4 years younger than me. Although, being girls raised in a conservative Muslim family, we were never neglected. Instead, our parents gave us the freedom to live like any other human, emphasized taking education seriously and building a career, and always provided us with anything and everything we wanted that was justified.

I was the apple of my father’s eyes. I was his favorite daughter and held an exceptional place in his heart. I was named after his beloved mother, and that connection further strengthened our bond. While my father loved all of his children dearly, I could sense that there was something unique about the bond he and I shared. However, This special treatment sometimes caused a hint of jealousy among my sisters. They often accused me of troubling them or making up stories, hoping to provoke our mother into getting upset with me. But my father, being the loving and gentle soul he was, would never resort to such measures.

My mother possessed a strong and sharp