As I prepare myself to partake in the month long activities for Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, I have to take a moment to reflect back to a time not so long ago. A time that like so many other women, I have experienced as well.
During this month, sure I'll wear my designer purple ribbon everyday as a symbol of my survival. But I have to dig deeper into my soul than that. That purple ribbon for me reflects the many sacrifices I've made during the time I was abused. It represents the scars and bruises I've endured inside and outside of my soul. You see, that purple ribbon I wear on my garments, hold a lot of power. I think about how many times I was one kick, slap or punch away from my transition into eternal life. Yes, I do have a relationship with God and believe wholeheartedly that He has a space big enough for my tiny soul, in heaven.
Words could never be uttered of how grateful I am that God kept me in His presence at that time in my life and even now. So I spend everyday of my life thanking Him by continuously striving to be a survivor of domestic violence and reaching out to other women and children who bear this burden, daily.
When I look at other women wearing those purple ribbons, I wonder what their testimonies are? Maybe they were once victims and now are victorious survivors. Could they be mothers, sisters or daughters of victims that were killed by their abusive partner or spouse? How about a dear friend of a victim or survivor? Whatever their reason(s) are, I am honored to share in their testimonies of raising awareness and one day our uplifted voices will
break the silence of domestic violence! As the song writer said, "Death couldn't shake me...." I look at my purple ribbon and others, it helps me know Who (God) won that battle against death. I can tell you, it wasn't easy, but when God placed me inside of my mother's womb, He had a plan that He spoke into existence, over my life. That plan included greatness and to have an abundance of joy in my life. So that huge attack that death tried to wipe me out with, God fought that battle for me and the beauty I got from those ashes, were wrapped in a small package. That small package was a silk purple ribbon that symbolizes how my God and yours, is Greater than anything this world has to offer or tries to take from you and me.
I pray that as you enter into
Domestic Violence Awareness Month you will support your community by doing something to help
break the silence of domestic violence. Donate your time to different shelters where women and their children have been housed to allow them to dwell in a safe haven. Donate those clothes and shoes you've boxed and bagged up months ago to give away, to those shelters. Say a prayer for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Whatever you decide to do, it will impact a society that is hurting from a silent crime. Needless to say, don't start nor stop your support during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Start now and continue to help in the fight to
break the silence.On behalf of all of us that wear our purple ribbons, we thank you in advance for your support!
