Mrs. Su Min, a 60-year-old woman from China, has decided to divorce her abusive husband after nearly 40 years of marriage. This decision marks not only the end of a painful marriage but also the beginning of a new journey of self-discovery and freedom.
A Life of Sacrifice and Final Liberation
After 38 years of enduring neglect and abuse from her husband, Mrs. Su Min finally found the courage to step out of the shadows of familial constraints. “I have paid for my mistakes for almost four decades. From now on, we will go our separate ways. I believe the future will only get better,” she wrote on her personal social media.
The divorce was finalized on January 9, 2025, and to celebrate this significant event, she purchased a camper van in Dalian City, embarking on a journey to explore the country. For her, this is more than just enjoying life; it is a testament to the message: “It’s never too late to live for yourself.”
Challenges on the Path to Freedom
The divorce process was not easy for Mrs. Su. Her ex-husband demanded a large sum of 500,000 yuan (over $72,000 USD) to agree to the divorce. After several negotiations, both parties settled on a fee of 160,000 yuan (approximately $23,000 USD). Despite the significant amount, Mrs. Su asserts that it “bought her freedom.”
“I once thought I would be trapped in this marriage forever, fearing the pain it would cause my daughter. But when she grew up, got married, and had children, I realized that continuing to endure only destroyed myself,” she shared.
The challenges in her life have forged Mrs. Su into a stronger woman. She compares her ex-husband to “a grindstone,” helping her overcome every obstacle.
An Icon of Women’s Liberation
Mrs. Su’s story has inspired millions, particularly middle-aged and older women. The film Like a Rolling Stone, adapted from her life, has attracted a large audience since its release last September.
She describes the film as truthful and relatable, reflecting her struggles accurately. “Life isn’t always rosy, but what matters is standing up and moving forward,” she says.
Since leaving her home in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, Mrs. Su has embarked on numerous long trips by her Volkswagen van. With retirement benefits, she has visited nearly 400 cities across China.
Message to Generations of Women
Mrs. Su wants to send a strong message to women of her generation: “We don’t need to spend our lives in someone else’s shadow. Our world is important, and everyone deserves the chance to explore it.”
Her journey has become an icon for the women’s rights movement in China, sparking heated debates about gender roles and personal freedom. Many compare her to Nora Helmer in Henrik Ibsen’s play A Doll’s House—a symbol of liberation from societal norms.
Currently, Mrs. Su has no plans to settle down anywhere. “It wasn’t until I turned 60 that I truly understood the meaning of life. Now, I am building myself anew to enter a new chapter—a place where I can live freely, happily, and vibrantly,” she reflects.
Conclusion
Mrs. Su Min’s story is not just a powerful affirmation of strength and courage but also a valuable source of inspiration for those seeking change in their lives. Remember, at any age, you have the right to choose your own happiness.
If you or someone you know is facing similar situations, don’t hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or professional organizations. Each small step today can lead to a brighter future.
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