She was afraid, but she valued her children’s lives too much
to ignore the signs. If she didn’t do something and something quick, there
would be no salvation coming their way. In the middle of the night she snuck
into their room and grabbed everything she could shove into a duffel bag. All
their favorite clothes, toys and whatever else she could carry. She hid the bag
under the bed and when came home in the morning she went around the corner from
where he was sitting and slid the duffel bag under the seat of the car.
Sneaking out of the house with the bag was just the beginning. She had to
pretend all was okay as she gathered the children and placed them in their car
seats for their planned visit with family. He never suspected a thing.
She sought refuge at the only place she knew would not turn
her away; her childhood home. All of the brothers came in from around the
country to show their support and throw the ring of family around her and her
children.
Some people aren’t so lucky; and others don’t have the
courage to do it.
EVERYONE needs to have a safe refuge – even if it is a dog
house!
I am so glad that the woman in this story had the courage to protect her life and the lives of her children. It is a terrifying moment of decision, and the right one was surely made. I believe that God watches over us in such situations and helps things fall into place to facilitate a safe escape. We have to make the first move, we have to draw that proverbial line in the sand and say "no more". Blessed are the ones who can return to family for safekeeping, and blessed are the shelters that take others in. I agree that EVERYONE needs to have a place where they can feel safe, be it mothers, children, elders, or one of God's creatures.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the awesome story, it reminded me of the places and people I have found refuge with at various stages of my life. Now Papa Bear is my refuge, and I know I am safe with him! I so appreciate you joining me for Two Shoes Tuesday, it's fun to share our thoughts and where words lead!
thank you Josie...
DeleteHow lucky she was to have a refuge in her family who would support her and the children. Knowing that her situation is repeated so much right across the world is really frightening. It seems to matter little that such physical or mental abuse continues unabated affecting the lives of the victims so much that they will have to live with it for many years if they are lucky. I only wish that tales such as this might help but sadly I think I hope in vain.
ReplyDeleteI hope you don't hop in vain. Some day all women (and men) will know that it is not OK to be treated that way and that it is NOT their fault.
Deleteso thankful for my own family as a refuge -- maybe not from a storm such as this one; but one thing about storms - they will come.
ReplyDeleteIndeed
Deleteso many dont have that refuge ... you are sooooo right! It lends that much more saddness to the whole situation. No wonder so many people stay and continue to live in fear...
ReplyDeleteZoe, there are more refuges than most people think. There is a huge network of people ready to help.
DeleteThis short story is very powerful.
ReplyDeleteVery courageous woman. Having a refuge is so very important for everyone. Family is a bonus for sure.
ReplyDeleteGreat story and lesson! I like your stories! : )
ReplyDelete