If you’re wondering why I’d be blogging about abuse I’ll tell you – I think it’s an ugly thing that needs to be talked about, especially with regard to families.  Abuse comes in many forms: verbal, psychological and physical. Often times it is handed down through the family, children are abused and can grow up to abuse their own children. There is also an epidemic in this country of senior abuse that isn’t quite as public, but critically wrong.

That is part of the reason why I wrote about abuse in Feisty Family Values.  In the story there are generations of abuse and Annabelle is trying to stop it, by showing her grandchildren that it is not okay to strike out in anger repeatedly.  It’s hard to break a pattern of abuse.  It’s hard to control anger.  But those that don’t, should seek help.

Readers have asked me if Feisty Family Values is about my family.  The answer is NO. It’s fiction, but it is based on situations I’ve seen growing up and heard about from friends and family.  I’ve seen child abuse and it’s terrifying.  I’ve never personally witnessed senior abuse, but I’ve read about it and it makes me sick at heart.  Our elderly have so much to offer. They have earned the right to retire in a comfortable and safe environment.  And our children have a right to grow up without fear of violence.

I interviewed the YWCA Womens Crisis Center when I was writing Feisty Family Values and they shared statistics with me that were staggering. Suffice it to say it’s a crime how many people have been victims of abuse in their lifetimes.  Please, if you’re in an abusive situation – get help.  If you find yourself unable to control your anger – get help. You’re not alone and there are people who care and can help.  You don’t deserve to be beaten and you don’t have to live that way.  Please except my blessings to those in need.