MB

He pushed me. He slapped me. He screamed in my face. He called me names. He hit our dogs. He punched holes in the walls. He made me feel like I was worthless. He made it seem like leaving was impossible. But I'm not. And it wasn't. So, I did. It's been six months since I left my abuser after 11 years of suffering in silence. But I'm done staying quiet about domestic violence, which is why every month on the 4th, I donate all of the royalties I earned from my book sales from the previous month to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. I'm happy to report that I was having so much fun yesterday living my new life with my new family that my donation obligation completely slipped my mind. But I'll never forget the kindness and compassion this amazing group showed me when I needed them most. Thank you to everyone who reads my books. Your readership helps me give back to the organization that helped save my life. 💜🙏🏻 Domestic violence affects 1/4 women and 1/7 men—and that's only counting physical abuse and sexual assault. That doesn't account for emotional, financial, spiritual, or verbal abuse. It happens behind closed doors, often times to the people who look the happiest. Victims stay quiet, because they're afraid to scream. They suffer in silence, because they think getting out is impossible. I know this. Because I survived. And so can you. If you or anyone you know is suffering from DV, don't hesitate to reach out to The Domestic Violence Hotline. I know you're scared. I know you're embarrassed. I know you feel like nothing is ever going to change. But there's a better life waiting for you. So, reach out and grab it while you still can.