You can walk away from an abusive relationship!

I had started writing a clever blog about writing, and after staring at it for two days, I chose to start over. I heard an interview on the radio today with the author of Heroes for My Son, and now Heroes for My Daughter. The host of the radio show said something about Tina Turner, saying "Don't wait 16 years." He then went on to say how some women may have 35cents and a Mobil card in their pocket and may not be able to leave.

This interview got me thinking about my own experience. It's no secret I stayed in an abusive marriage for seven years. And, those who knew me before (and especially years after) I was in that relationship were shocked to discover I stayed with someone who would treat me like that. My first answer is always because I loved him. I was young, and believed love can cure all. I thought he loved me enough.

But, that's obviously not a good enough reason to stay with someone who would hurt you. I'll tell you a little more - When I finally left my ex-husband and filed for a restraining order, I had only been working at my new job for a few months, I had never paid a single bill, and I had no idea how to cook anything other than macaroni and cheese.

I was terrified of being on my own. Not only would I be in charge of every aspect of the home and family, but I would have to learn how to do things most people at my age took for granted. I can remember the gratification I felt the first time I mailed a check to the mortgage company. Granted, it was late because I was broke, but I did it. That was the first milestone for me. From mailing that single piece of paper out I realized I could do it. I could live on my own, support my children, and make sure we had somewhere to live and food in our bellies.

Was it easy? Hell no! I struggled constantly, dropping major weight because there was only enough food for my three kids. We used space heaters during the winter when I couldn't afford to fill the propane tank, and we didn't go out to eat. But, I learned to cook...quite well, actually. My kids grew stronger knowing they were safe. I grew stronger.

Today, I'm married to a wonderful man, someone who supports everything I do, including my dream of becoming a published author.

What does this have to do with writing, you ask? Not a damn thing. But, now you know a little more about me, and why I don't give up...ever!

What the F*ck is Going On?!

Normally I blog about things to do with writing. You know; tips, links, inspiration, etc. Sorry to say, today I'm going to be on a soap box.

Another news report came out today about a 24 year old man raping, slapping and burning a one year old girl with cigarettes. He then persuaded a 15 year old to have sex with him. Just last week a mother beat her thirteen month old son to death because he wouldn't stop crying and go back to sleep. She was hung over and wanted to sleep in. Then, the infamous case of Casey Anthony murdering her beautiful little girl, Caylee.

Why?! Why is this happening? I asked my husband his opinion and he thinks it's because of all the instant sources of news. It just gets more attention. I don't think that's the case. I think it's way more prevalent.

I have never given birth to a child, yet I'm the mother of three beautiful kids. Never would I even think about beating one of my kids. Have I slapped them on the behind? You bet I have. Have I ever closed my fist and punched one of my kids because I was hung over and wanted to sleep? HELL NO!

I keep going over these atrocities in my head. Is it from the easy access of pornography? No longer to you have to hide your face and go into an adult book store. A few clinks on the Internet, and viola! You got yourself some porn.

Maybe it's because of the whole 'you're okay, I'm okay' mentality. Or perhaps because society as a whole refuses to make children accountable for their actions or give them any responsibilities. Maybe it's because of the entitlement mentality. 'I deserve this!'

I'm sure the ACLU's habit of protecting criminals isn't helping. There was a story I read of the ACLU claiming death by lethal injection was cruel because the man in question would feel the discomfort of the needle going into his arm. This same man was sentenced to death for brutally raping and murdering a three old girl. In my opinion, the death penalty was entirely too easy.

Why isn't society as a whole demanded more from our government as far as protecting the children? Why aren't we beating on doors and demanding they severely punish anyone who would not only molest or rape a child, but abuse them in any manner. If a human being is capable of beating a baby to death, or raping a child, is this really someone we want breathing the same air as the rest of us?

And here's another thought; where are the vigilantes we always here about? I'm not saying I condone murder, but I have to admit...I wouldn't shed a tear if some piece of shit baby raper was beat to within an inch of his life on some city street.

I know you all have opinions on what is happening. And I'm sure there's more than one of you who will say I'm evil or a sinner for wanting these monsters to suffer. Here's you chance to sound off....the comment board is all yours!