THE BREAD WINNER

a mark of strength, responsibility, and love. But beneath the surface of noble sacrif

ooted in Ubuntu and communal living, is not inherently flawed. In fact, it is beautiful in its ideal form. But idea

identity, to meet the needs of others. A good job in the city is not just a job-it is a lifeline. A degree is not a per

to maintain friendships or romantic partnerships because of the endless obligations and guilt that come with every personal decision. Later, they sacrifice their he

r you..." is a phrase many breadwinners hear when they say no. But what is rarely asked is: what was done for them? Often, the breadwinner rose on

d's small victories grow cold when those victories don't translate into financial gain. Siblings who once admired the breadwinner's strength become b

hat phrase becomes a curse. It strips them of childhood, pushes them into adulthood far too early, and sets them on a path where being v

tep into the role of savior. Not through education or career alone, but sometimes through exploitation. "You're beautiful, find someone who can help us." "Use what you have." These are not

nder the banne

n while still trying to raise themselves. Many carry trauma that will never be named, much less healed. Yet no one talks about it. It is wrapped in silenc

g themselves to death, and they say, "He's doing well." No one asks if he's happy. Everyone sees the young g

port with transactional relationships. Breadwinners are not celebrated for their

p the phone. Still sends money they don't have. Still carries the family on broken sho

crifice-beautiful in th