Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Am I the only one who refuses to listen to Eminem and Rihanna's song "Love the Way You Lie"? I will admit that when the song first came out, I was drawn to its intensity, but as I continued to listen to it a uncomfortable feeling grew. When I actually listened to the words I realized just how the destructive the song actually is. Not only is the song about an abusive relationship but the style of it mirrors it as well.

Although they may not enjoy the negative moments, some are actually drawn to the intensity that abusive relationships deliver, whether it is the intensity of the good times or just the intensity in general. What is first viewed as passion can later look like rage.

I, along with more women than you may think, have experienced an unhealthy relationship at one time or another. Thankfully, I was not in a situation that was physically harmful, but it was unhealthy nonetheless, and I was not happy.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The statistics and reality of domestic abuse are startling. Many are still blind to the issue and many others continue to be victims.

It is important that we start with ourselves. If you are in a relationship, and you are not happy (even if it not abusive), please reconsider the value of that relationship. Your happiness is more important. Also, think about your friends, if you know anyone who is not happy in a relationship, please talk to them.

There are ample resources: http://www.ncadv.org/. Please stay informed and do what you can to help those in an unhealthy situation.

In honor, of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Her Journey is hosting a giveaway. Sil Lai Abrams is the author of No More Drama, in which she shares her own experience with domestic violence. Her story is eye opening. The reality is gut wrenching, but her victory is inspiring. She uses her story and continues to spread the message that life is not simply about surviving, it is about living!

This giveaway will be open for the month of October. To enter, you simply have to comment on this post with a fact about domestic violence (i.e. a statistic, a way to prevent it). You can even share a story. At the end of October a winner will be picked and will be announced on November 1st.