October means...

I want to use this blog to respond and pass along the message from my friend Allison's blog.

October means different things for different people. For some, it means post-season baseball. For some, it means National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For others, it means a change of season. But right now, I want to remind everybody that October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

You may ask, "What does domestic violence have to do with me?" Let me tell you it has everything to do with you. One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. It is safe for me to say every person knows someone affected by domestic violence. Domestic violence is not only about some guy beating up his wife. Abuse happens in all shapes and forms-- emotionally, economically, sexually and spiritually, too. Besides, it can also happen to men (though in a smaller number).

What can you do to help? If you have money, you can generously donate it to support the funding of domestic violence. Contact your local non-profit organizations or charities. If you don't have money, it is okay too. Learn about it, educate yourself and talk about it with your family and friends. Your knowledge and awareness can be very influential. Breaking the silence is the first step in breaking the cycle of violence.

Links which you can learn more about the subject:

Texas Council on Family Violence

National Domestic Violence Hotline

Houston Area Women's Center

You have two choices: Be a bystander or make a difference. It is up to you.

And if you really want to, I will be glad to talk with you about domestic violence.