silent and disturbed

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I had a really fun Wordless Wednesday post in mind that I wanted to put together today.  But, I can't.  Because fun doesn't belong here.  Fun does not belong anywhere near what is stuck in my head. 

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I have been blessed in my life to not have to deal with abuse.  The domestic and sexual kind.  But it hit home last night.  No, not because I was hit.  But, my neighbor friend was.  By.her.husband.  In front of many members of our cul-de-sac community.

I did not witness it.  But, I did hear what happened. 

Two punches.  PUNCHES.to.the.face! 

Another man intervened and broke it up.  And now I am broke up.

My heart and soul ache for my friend.  My heart and soul ache for their children.  Their children, who are innocent bystanders to the abuse at the hands of this poor, pathetic excuse of a man.  Their father.  I have no doubt they, too, have witnessed and experience this same abuse.  And that makes me extremely sad.

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But, here I am silent.  Except to purge all of my overwhelming feelings here.  Where they seem safe and tucked away.  But, why?  Why do I feel the need to remain silent?

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Growing up, I wasn't so much taught this - but it is what I learned and how I lived my life.  I STAY OUT OF IT!  Unless it affects me or those I love....I STAY OUT OF IT!  I mind my own business.  My mom, on the other hand, would be completely disappointed with me.  Because in this instance, she would NOT stay out of it.  My mom would have confronted that man.  That night.  Heck, she probably would have jumped in to break it up.  That is just my mom. 

But...I am NOT my mom. 

Still...something is telling me I am WRONG this time. 

But there is an element of danger and violence that could reign down on me for stepping up and saying something.  Is that a risk I am willing to take? 

Why does she stay?  Why would she put up with continuous abuse?  She feels there is no way out, I am sure of it.  I am so torn. 

Even though I did not witness this first hand, I know it happened.  And I cannot live with myself knowing this and still doing nothing.  And my neighbors too, right?! 

I am We are just as guilty as him if I we don't speak up.  And stop the violence.

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So instead of being silent and disturbed....how do I become LOUD and CONFIDENT and JUST?!?!

just 1 (jst)

adj.
1. Honorable and fair in one's dealings and actions: a just ruler.
2. Consistent with what is morally right; righteous: a just cause.
3. Properly due or merited: just deserts.
4. Law Valid within the law; lawful: just claims.
5. Suitable or proper in nature; fitting: a just touch of solemnity.
6. Based on fact or sound reason; well-founded: a just appraisal.