Domestic Violence, The Rest Of The Story

Over the past few weeks you have read articles on the signs of Domestic Violence, the statistics, and ways you can help curb this problem in Leon County and the surrounding area. This week I want to address what happens AFTER the victim leaves her abuser. Often she has no job, no transportation and she may have left with nothing but her clothes and children. This is where our program gets involved for the long term, helping her find resources, a place to stay, a job, and counseling for her emotional well being. We offer individual counsel and guidance, and when she feels she is ready, there is a support group of women who have also been victims. Many of these women have great stories to tell of their road to recovery, sharing how they have changed their lives and are no longer victims but on their way to becoming survivors. We do this by using the principles in the Bible and teaching how to apply those to their daily life.

Our goal is helping victims learn how to make better decisions, learn from their past mistakes, avoid the pitfalls that got them into abusive situations, restore their self esteem, learn how to forgive their abuser and overcome their anger. We help them understand that God loves them and wants them to live a life that is full of the love, joy, and peace that only He can give, to put the past behind them and move forward to a better life for themselves and their children. They will never forget, but they can choose to not remember.

I am asked all the time, “Why and how do you do this??” I have lived the life these women and children are living. My childhood was filled with a dad who used alcohol to escape his demons and a mom who, no matter what I did or how I did it, it was never good enough. My early adult years were spent looking for love and peace in all the wrong places, my children paid the price just as I had. Domestic violence is a curse that follows our families for generations, but there is hope and help for those who want to escape. This curse can be broken by learning who Jesus is and who you are in Him. I know it works, because I have changed on the inside. I am no longer a victim of my childhood or the mistakes I made of my own choosing. I now have that joy, love, and peace Jesus promised. It did not happen overnight, it took several years, but it has all been worth it. Today my dad is a recovered alcoholic who met Jesus at 65, and my mom also knows the saving grace Jesus gives. I now have the privilege of helping other women down the road to victory!! Today I can truly say,"There IS Life after domestic violence!!"

Do you relate to what I have said? Maybe you have a friend or loved one that needs to start over, stop the cycle of abuse, and get her life in order. Show her this article and give her my number (903- 322-2399). All our services are free and confidential.

Possibly you are a survivor and would like to be a part of this ministry. Pray and seek God's will. We have a training class in November, so call me for more information.

Many ask, “How can I help?” Come to the garage sale fundraiser November 7th. (See JUDY’S HOUSE, page 4D ). We are still accepting good useable items which can be dropped off at Doc Holladay's office, Mon- Wed-Fri, afternoons. All proceeds will go to help restore and maintain our temporary/ emergency shelter. Most important of all, PRAY, that we can continue, "Changing lives, one family at a time".