I am a survivor of domestic violence and I’ve always wanted to volunteer with organizations that help, educate and advocate against domestic violence. Well, last Friday, me and Bobby were fortunate enough to meet some really great people at the Mid-Valley Women’s Crisis Service in Salem, OR. The staff and volunteers there are doing really good work and you can, not only see, but feel the passion they have for what they do. They were happy to allow us to volunteer for a few hours.

I’d just like to say that if you’re a woman or man in an abusive relationship, either physical or emotional, I encourage you…actually, I’m begging you…to please get help. I know it’s not easy reaching out for help. Speaking from experience, I felt shame and embarrassment. I was embarrassed that my personal business was going to be exposed or that I would be looked down on. I was afraid I would be judged. I was afraid for many reasons. For many others I know it’s fear that their abuser will find out or find them if the choice is to leave. There are many reasons why we, the abused, don’t seek help but help is out there. YOU are NOT ALONE. You may feel alone. You may think you’re alone and that no one cares. You may feel and think a lot of things. In many cases, our abusers have groomed us to feel this way. I know I stayed for many reasons…and I can honestly say today that, for myself, they were all the wrong reasons.