In support and remembrance of victims and survivors of domestic violence
- - - Resources for Domestic Violence - - -
- - - Resources for Rape Survivors - - -
I've struggled with this section of my journal. Do I tell my own story of abuse, or do I merely give resources to others who may be in need? Do I offer encouragement, advice, a helping hand? I don't know.
My story is not easy for me to tell...and would it serve a purpose to be included? In comparison to others, it was nothing. I was not married to my abuser...we didn't have any children together...we didn't even live together. The bottom line is that I have some idea. I've dealt with the verbal, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of the man I loved.
But I can tell you this---You deserve more. Your children deserve more. Honest love, laughter, shared conversations...all of these should be yours. Not screamed accusations and make-up covered bruises. Not wondering when and where the next blow will come from. Not watching your child shrink away in fear or running to a neighbors for help. Despite what he has made you believe.....regardless of what he tells you, you are beautiful. You are worthy. You are deserving of love, and you ARE loved!
Get help, but do it safely. You're in more danger once you leave...statistics prove that to be true. But that doesn't mean escaping is not an option...it's your only option. Just assure it's done in a safe and confident manner. Look up shelters in your phone book...call an old friend he doesn't know about...go to your local hospital...there's somewhere out there that WILL protect you.
Ask Jesus for strength. Once you make your decision, He will guide you safely, but you have to help Him. It's not a matter of sitting on the couch and saying Ok, show me the way...find the resources, take the first step, and you'll find He is there to carry you if needed. Trust in this.
Be safe...be well...be strong.
1-800-799-SAFE(7233)
Confidential, toll free
Click on the above image to view their website
Hiding in the Closet
(information and links)
Domestic Violence Agencies on the Internet
(Listing of various Internet agencies as well as related information links)
Stop Family Violence
(Information links and personal writings)
Women's Justice Center
(statistics and information links)
Domestic Violence, Murder and my Kids
(A mother and grandmothers story of loss)
To Be Added Soon
I can't understand the feelings of financial dependancy, but I understand the emotional dependancy. It's easy for me to sit here and advise someone to leave...I'm not the one with his child in my arms.
God Bless!
