We are getting towards the end of the
month of November and to me, this is one of the most important months of the
year. Every year in November, Women in Action join thousands of people
throughout the world, as we participate in
the 16 Days of Activism for no violence against women and children.
For those who work hard to bring
awareness of this terrible scourge in society, there is no better time to
promote the prevalence of abuse and violence, because the media in general gives
full support to this cause during the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
My purpose is not merely to talk
about the subject of violence and abuse, point out shocking statistics or show
some terrible photographs of victims. My aim is far greater.
What I really want to do, is to help
women, young or old, to deal with the ghosts of the past.
It takes great courage to talk about
personal experiences. We always think we will be judged, labelled and probably
not understood.
And this is the value of this month
– with so many women sharing their stories and how they overcame their
circumstances, you may feel encouraged to look for help, realising that you are
not alone.
Let me give you an example – say you
have financial problems and receive one more bill that has been outstanding for
three months. What would you do? Open a drawer or a file and toss it there?
Ok, you have put it out of sight but
you have not solved the arrears problem.
For now you do not actually see the bill but in time your electricity will be
cut off, or your credit will be suspended or your car will be repossessed.
There will be consequences.
If you have had a bad experience in
the past and have hidden it in your sub-conscious mind, it does not mean you
have dealt with it.
As you face new situations in your
life: family gatherings, new relationships, applying for a job, or raising your
children, this unresolved trauma pops up and it seems that these bad memories
are stronger than ever before.
Then you think: “Why do I have to
deal with something that happened so long ago?” Once again, you hide the
problem in your sub-conscious.
When we Break the Silence, we are
challenging you to do just the same – it is time to stop “hiding and seeking”
from this trauma. This is the moment to deal with this bad experience, overcome
the complex, fear or pain caused by it.
Let us talk, and if necessary, seek
help from relevant organisations. You have the right to be happy.
And to see you happy is what makes
this month so special for me.
2 comments:
16 Days of Activism for no violence against women and children.As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates other. No to abuse #rise woman rise# Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.
Yes, most people are comfortable with just forgetting the past, it's much easier that way. Even the subject of raising awareness on this subject is uncomfortable to some. But as you said Mrs Marcia this is a problem that we cannot shove under the carpet. It's out there and many women are suffering. Let us deal with it once and for all.16 Days of Activism for no violence against women and children. Let your voice be heard!
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