Take the Brave Woman Pledge in 2012 #BraveWoman #CBias

Last month I shared my Brave Woman story with you. It was very difficult for me to write about my mom’s painful experiences with domestic violence, and how it affected me as a child who witnessed it happen. I am still trying to move on from the pain it caused me, and I know my mom is still struggling to do the same. It is a healing process that will take time, but I am hopeful for the future. I am just thankful that my mom is alive and is no longer living in fear.

With that said, it’s a new year and with that brings hope – hope for the future – hope that things will get better. It’s a time when many people make resolutions and set goals, and I imagine that there are many women who are determined to be brave this year. I challenge you to look around you to see if there is anyone you know who might be suffering from domestic violence. Maybe it’s your best friend or sister. Maybe it’s the checkout lady at the grocery store. Or maybe it’s you. Whoever it is, find a way to reach out to her and give her the strength she needs to be brave. She may just need that extra encouragement to make a bold move.

How can you help?

• Take the Brave Woman Pledge at BraveWomen.org

I pledge to honor and respect brave women and children who tackle the difficult journey of change from domestic violence to a new life. I acknowledge my own moment-by-moment bravery, will remain aware of what is happening to others around me, and speak up against violence in any form. I will stand up for human dignity and safety for women and children.

• Become an advocate – speak out against violence
• Volunteer at your local women’s shelter
• Listen – be open and attentive to someone in need
• Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline number (1-800-799-7233) if you or someone you know needs help right away

In 2012 I am going to make it a point to reach out to other brave women. Whether it’s donating my time or resources to the local women’s shelter, or just being a listening ear to someone who needs to talk, I am going to use my experiences to help someone else. Every woman deserves to be treated with respect, and every woman deserves happiness. Many women just need to find the strength and self-confidence to make a change.

I encourage you to also make a difference and reach out to other brave women if you can. If you would like to help the cause, please visit www.bravewoman.org and take the Brave Woman Pledge. You can also find Brave Woman on Facebook and on Twitter at @Brave_Woman. To join the conversation on Twitter just look for the #BraveWoman hashtag.

“Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide on, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe your critics are right…. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave men and women to win them.” Ralph Waldo Emerson