No matter how safe we want the world to be, there are still people who will commit crimes and atrocities against humanity. Dear women, some of you might not live to tell your stories and the abuser will walk away free. It’s not your duty to retaliate when you are threatened, that’s the mistake. Someone who is not afraid to tell you they will abuse you, won’t be afraid of some words in a moment of anger. Take a step out of the abusive environment. If your family or friends do not pay attention to your plights then you need to save yourself first because after you lose your life from constant abuse, their lives will still move on.
Be aware of your environment and pay attention to the movement of people. It’s not too safe to put your safety into the hands of a particular person. Mostly we do not know who will harm us in the long run. If you’ve been slapped, rapped, beaten, and had a knife pointed at you then the next time might be gruesome. Don’t compromise your safety and life for anything. If you should go to a place you’re unfamiliar with making sure to leave the address, phone number, and picture of the person you are going to meet with your family before you leave. Update your family about your whereabouts and family members must strive to look out for their girl child especially if they are out of their sight.
Lastly, pay attention to your instincts. That’s the most powerful thing the creator has blessed us with, when you do not feel at ease with someone or a particular place then you need to take action immediately. Don’t laugh over threats when in your heart you feel the urge to flee. Your safety is first and your life is precious. Protect it against violent abusers and people who pose threat to your life.
As Jane Green Bookends rightly said: “you don’t have to wait for someone to treat you badly repeatedly. All it takes is once, and if they get away with it that once if they know they can treat you like that, then it sets the pattern for the future”. Your safety is always first.
#StarlightFoundation #LetUsSaveTheWorldTogether #HearHerToo #OrangeTheWorld #16DaysOfActivism #EndSexualAbuse
