Ending the Cycle of Violence

Everywhere we turn, there are hidden dangers lurking. The most hidden would be domestic violence. Most cases are not reported due to embarrassment or fear. There is a way to end this vicious cycle, if we would just get up enough courage to make a change. Eventually, there are people out there who will see through the excuses made. It's time...if you feel you are in danger, to walk out the door.

There are numerous victims out there who don't realize that they are victims. They feel that their partner can be changed. Domestic violence comes in more than one form. Most of them leave no visible evidence. That lack of evidence doesn't make the abuse less devastating to the victim. We have certain rights as Americans that protect us from danger, provide us with freedoms, and keep us safe within our country. For thousands of people, those same securities provide no comfort within what should be the safety of their homes. This needs to end. The cycle needs to be stopped; and it can be.

Domestic violence shows itself in many ways. It isn't primarily a title held only by physical violence. Other forms include name-calling, threatening and throwing things. When something comes flying in your direction that doesn't fly on its own, rest assured, that is a form of violence. If you are told that you are a horrible parent (and you know different) you have the same result. The day threats are made to leave you high and dry with nothing yep, you guessed it.

End the cycle now, while you know that there is still time
Be willing to learn the lessons that will be passed on to you from this
Move forward with the rest of your life without looking back

The first step to curbing domestic violence is to admit that you do not deserve it. Although that will take a while to do, the rewards will be immeasurable. There are counseling centers set up throughout the country to help any victim in need. There are toll-free 800 numbers for you to call 24 hours a day, even if it's just to talk. No one is there to pressure you into making any rash decisions that you are not emotionally ready to make for yourself. When push comes to shove, know that your corner is full of supporters. The day you realize that, the embarrassment will soon wear off and your self-pride will be restored.

One thing to remember is it's NOT your fault. If you have children, they need to know the same. Domestic violence affects the entire family. If it is not put to an end, that cycle will be handed down to your children in one way or another. In a lot of cases, there will be dire consequences. So, act now. There is no time like the present to realize that your life, safety and happiness are worth a lot more than you were ever told they were. Life is full of hurdles; this can just be one bump in your road to the future. In some ways, it may make you a stronger person. It will change the way your children look at you. They will begin to see a person of courage that will protect them at any cost. Your strong will and determination can prove to be a better cycle to pass down to your future generations.

There are some perpetrators out there who think you can put a price tag on the lives of others. One thing needs to be said to them a person's life is priceless. There will come a day when that same person will run across someone who is bigger and stronger than they are. What will happen then? Will a lesson be learned? Or will they still think that they are invincible? For your own safety, don't be there when that day comes.

Take a word of advice from one who has been there, it will be the hardest thing you have ever done. You will cry more than you ever thought you would. You will still make excuses for everything. But one thing is for certain...that too will pass.