Every new parent faces a whirlwind of emotions, especially during the first few weeks following childbirth. For Ariela Weinberg, her journey as a new mom was filled with unexpected cultural surprises and overwhelming feelings while navigating life in Ethiopia with her partner Biniyam Shibre. In the latest episodes of TLC's 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way, viewers witnessed a mix of joy and anxiety as Ariela adjusted to her new role as a mother to their baby boy, Aviel.
On October 25, 2020, episode 17 showcased Ariela's struggles after undergoing an emergency cesarean section. As she attempted to balance her recovery with the challenges of motherhood, she openly expressed her uncertainties. "It's so weird. I mean, I think I'll be a good mom. I think I'm doing an OK job. But if you ask me if I know what I'm doing, I have no idea what I'm doing," she shared, highlighting the reality many new mothers face.
As the episode progressed, Ariela's challenges were amplified when she and Biniyam left the hospital without a car seat for their newborn. While Ethiopia lacks strict car seat laws, Ariela's concerns led her to insist that Biniyam walk home with Aviel while she took a ride. This incident marked just the beginning of her cultural adjustments, setting the stage for an unexpected surprise that would leave her emotional.
Biniyam's Cultural Surprise: The Sheep Sacrifice
Upon returning home, Ariela was greeted by a local tradition that took her by surprise. Biniyam, wanting to honor the birth of their son, had invited guests over for a celebration without consulting Ariela first. The situation was complicated by Ariela's recent C-section, making her less than enthusiastic about having visitors.
To make matters more shocking, a sheep arrived, symbolizing a traditional sacrifice for the happiness of both Ariela and their newborn. When Biniyam explained that slaughtering the sheep was customary, Ariela felt a wave of distress wash over her. "I think that makes it worse. Now I'm responsible for sheep slaughter," she confessed, clearly overwhelmed by the cultural expectations placed upon her.
This poignant moment in the episode serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by couples from different cultural backgrounds. The emotional weight of the situation, combined with the physical demands of new motherhood, made for a heartfelt scene that resonated with many viewers.
Key Takeaways from Ariela and Biniyam's Experience
What You Will Learn
- Navigating cultural differences can be challenging for couples, especially after significant life events.
- Open communication between partners is crucial to understanding and respecting each other's backgrounds.
- New parents often face unexpected challenges during the transition to parenthood, which can be compounded by cultural expectations.
- Emotional support from partners is vital during the early days of parenting, as both individuals adjust to their new roles.
Ariela's journey on 90 Day Fiancé is a powerful illustration of the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies new parenthood. As she navigates the complexities of cultural traditions and her personal experiences, her story resonates with many viewers experiencing similar challenges in their own lives.
