What Was Once a Fairy Tale...

What was once a fairy tale can end in destruction if you're not careful and can happen to

anyone...

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and statistics tell us 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime and every year more than 3 million children are witnesses of domestic violence in their homes. As I write this and as you read this, a woman is scrambling across a floor hanging on to her life. I realize domestic abuse, not only happens to women but men also. Needless to say, its a horrible experience for anyone. Also as I write this I'm reminded of my second book, a novel which is surrounded by domestic abuse.


So what exactly is abuse? Many of us are aware of the signs of physical abuse but what are the signs of emotional abuse?

The National Domestic Violence tells us the following:

-Telling you that you can never do anything right
-Showing jealousy of your friends and time spent away
-Keeping you or discouraging you from seeing friends or family members
-Embarrassing or shaming you with put-downs
-Taking your money
-Looking at you or acting in ways that scare you
-Controlling who you see, where you go, or what you do
-Preventing you from making your own decisions
-Forcing you to do things that you don't want to

These signs usually turn physical in what was a fairy tale relationship to begin with. They're also rarely reported because of embarrassment of because you don't want your friends or family in control of the relationship.

If you're a friend of someone experiencing domestic abuse what should you do?

My best advice is to allow your friend to know they're worth in the eyes of the Lord. Explain to them their self-worth is extremely important its time its resurfaced. Its not easy for someone experience abuse to just leave so don't ridicule your friend more. Their partner has done enough of that. Encourage them through scripture and be the friend they've always known you to be. If you belittle them, they'll never return for your comfort and their situation remains the same or gets worse. Remember, they came to you for a reason, because they need healing and want a way out. You're a push. A glimmer of hope that everything will be ok.

If you're someone experiencing domestic violence right now, I encourage you to seek a path to safety. You're encouraged to anonymously call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Also, visit their site for further information at www.thehotline.org.


"He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."~Mark 5:34