| I'm not sure if you have kids, but I have three of my | | | | asking "why?" The child is smaller then you, less |
| own (one older boy and twin girls) and love them | | | | educated (although you can't be really smart if you |
| beyond anything, including my own life. I want to make | | | | abuse), cannot communicate well (express their hurt), |
| sure you understand the importance of child abuse | | | | and most likely your own flesh and blood. Please ask |
| and what it does to the child as they grow up (if they | | | | yourself the question and fill in the blank "why do I get |
| get there). I want to set a clear picture in your mind so | | | | angry when ______?" Before reacting, write down |
| that you never forget it. I want to draw a fictitious | | | | what you should do when that situation arises and |
| barrier around your anger and reactions. | | | | what you shouldn't do (like hit or yell). Then, think of the |
| First, make everyone in the room disappear from | | | | list when the child (your child) acts up. And keep in |
| wherever you are. Now that you are alone, think about | | | | mind...they are only children. Maybe take the time to |
| your children (or children you are close to, like nephews | | | | watch that video again, it will surely calm you |
| and nieces), the happy times you have with them, think | | | | down...and perhaps save you from a life in jail |
| about friends that have kids and how they get along. | | | | sentence. |
| Think about when you were young and the good | | | | Now let talk about the "stand-by" person! A stand-by |
| times you had with your family. | | | | person is someone that knows or suspects something |
| Now that you have thought about this, I think you | | | | is wrong, but too afraid to stand-up and say something. |
| agree with me that child abuse in any way, shape, or | | | | They are afraid to help. They are afraid to defend the |
| form is unacceptable and...WILL NOT BE | | | | weak. They are part of the equation to a result of |
| TOLERATED! If you are the abused and are able to | | | | chaos. To you people, I say have the courage to react! |
| communicate...then reach out and tell someone! There | | | | Confront the abusers and express your concerns. Be |
| are many help lines in every area. You can also tell | | | | brave for the weak! You might save a life! Is it better |
| someone you trust, a friend or relative, and if you're | | | | to save a life or lose a friend? |
| out of options...email everyone on your contact list | | | | Let me finish by saying to everyone (stand-by, |
| (make sure to include me) and explain your situation. | | | | abusers, and abused alike) that the cycle MUST stop. |
| You will reach someone that will listen and help! | | | | We must make a difference...everyone! Together, let's |
| For those that are too young to speak up or reach | | | | stop the violence! |
| out...then I will address the abusers. Let me start by | | | | |