THOSE OF YOU who’ve followed me for awhile recognize that I typically steer away from issues-related topics. By nature, I’m a peacemaker, quiet, unassuming and not inclined to create controversy. I like calm, not discord.
That said, I have written, and will continue to write, here on several issues about which I feel strongly. That includes domestic abuse and violence. And because October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I’d like to share a blog post I wrote for Warner Press, an Indiana-based Christian publishing company. I am the paid blog coordinator for Warner.
Aptly titled “When Our Sisters Are Hurting,” my post tackles the topic from a Christian perspective. It’s important that faith communities recognize, acknowledge and react to domestic abuse and violence rather than ignore or excuse both. Please take time to read my post by clicking here. I’m no expert. But I know enough to share my insights in what I hope is a meaningful and valuable post.
No matter who you are—whether a person of faith or not—please take time this month to remember the victims and survivors of domestic abuse and violence. Determine to educate yourself, to support and help those in abusive relationships, and to stand strong for your sisters who are hurting.
Beautiful Kay. Photo from Kim at My Inner Chick.
And then click here to read a powerful blog by Duluth resident Kim Sisto-Robinson whose sister, Kay, was murdered by her husband on May 26, 2010.
I’m also remembering these women today:
Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism employee Barb Larson, murdered by her ex-husband in her work place on December 23, 2016.
Margie Brown Holland and her unborn daughter, Olivia, murdered by Margie’s husband on March 7, 2013, in Apple Valley. Margie grew up in Faribault; her dad lived for awhile across the street from me.
Becky Kasper, 19, murdered by her ex-boyfriend in Arizona on April 20, 2013. Becky was from Northfield, Minnesota. I heard her father, Dan, speak about his daughter in 2016. Click here to read my post about that powerful talk.
© Copyright 2019 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
Strength to all those victims of domestic violence.
Yes, strength, such a powerful wish and need.
A very thoughtful, insightful,and poignant essay that calls for action on domestic abuse. I applaud your efforts.. Thanks for bringing this issue to the forefront and keeping it relevant
Thank you and you are welcome. I do what I can.
I’m glad you have focused on this issue, unlike some people who think they should be heard on everything. It makes others sit up and take notice. Thanks for the post on these women. We are poorer for their loss. Phil
The compassion in your comment comes through loud and clear. Thank you for that.
My father beat my mom the first 11 years of my life when he would come home drunk. My mom divorced him when the violence steadily became worse. I eventually forgave my father, but he refused to accept responsibility for his actions and we were never reconciled. Reading about or seeing domestic violence stories continues to make me sick to my stomach.
I am sorry.
I am grateful for your mother’s ability to leave this abusive relationship.
And I am thankful for you and your voice of strength and compassion.
To the people who are affected by this malady. If you are given a safe haven YOU must decided how to best to take action! Don NOT paint yourself in a corner.
While we THINK cultural diversity is really keen, interesting and even worth crossing the isle to join with another in marriage, be very aware of cultural differences. In one country, it is legal to beat one’s wife – cops will NOT interfere. Divorce is out of the question as they (the country) do not recognize it.
Laws designed to help and protect you here in the good ol USA do NOT exist in other countries (regardless of what your spouses or significant other might state). Socially, a woman would be disgraced/shamed and shunned if she publicly disagreed with her husband (UK).
If the situation you are in warrants it, get marriage counseling, see the minister of your church, see a welfare worker or seek some type of outside help. PLEASE!
Gunny, thank you for expounding on the subject but most importantly for stressing the need to seek help.
Thanks so very much for your advocacy and sharing these posts to spread awareness and just open it up for discussion. I know through my advocacy listening is key. Domestic abuse comes in many forms. I know victims as well as survivors and each one has an impactful, powerful message to share with others, especially in opening the lines of communication for those experiencing domestic violence. Thanks again and Take Care
Thank you, Renee, for pointing out the importance of listening. I appreciate you and all you have done to advocate.
Thanks for keeping us aware of this important topic. Your article for Warner Press was a good remember that this problem exists everywhere.
You are most welcome.
Great article Audrey! Awareness is the key to heightened our understanding of these horrible things that many women face. It’s sad to think this is happening to our sisters!
Thank you, Jackie.
Good for you for keeping this important subject in the light!! ❤ ❤ ❤
Just as you do with mental health.
Prayers for all victims and their loved ones
Amen.
As always, thank you for your VOICE, Audrey. You are inspiring & beautiful. xx from Duluth.
Thank you, Kim.