She wipes the tears that course down her cheeks with trembling hands. She tries to stop her hands from trembling but her whole body is trembling so her efforts are futile. Trembling seems to be a conditioned response to fear after the years of abuse. He comes near her again and she winces as she anticipates another blow from his hand. In a moment of clarity, she decides it is enough. There are no apologies he can give this time that will make his actions acceptable. More importantly, this time she refuses to apologize for making the decision to walk away.
She will not apologize——for setting boundaries in her relationship.
She will not apologize——for asking her partner to be responsible for his actions.
She will not apologize—–for a broken trust that she did not break.
She will not apologize——for asking to be loved tenderly.
She will not apologize——for wanting a companion and friend.
She will not apologize—–for hoping for a better life for her children.
She will not apologize——for deciding to live in peace.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Become aware of the face of a victim. It could be the face of the woman in the car pool line at your school or the face of the man sitting next to you in the church pew. Nearly 40 percent of domestic violence victims are male. Become aware of how you can help victims become survivors. Learn about the local shelters in your area. What are their needs? Volunteers, emergency supplies or financial support, find the need and be willing to meet it. Become aware of your role in ending domestic violence.
