There were so many times I wanted to leave. But when you know that somebody will murder you or your child if you leave, and no one else around you cares, what’s the point?
The option I had was to use the tools in my toolbox that prepared me for life; ones that were broken and scarred. I didn’t know how to get healthy tools to survive and thrive in my community. I couldn’t turn to my church because they approved of my marriage to my abuser. I couldn’t turn to my mother because she was in recovery.
If I had known about Call to Safety, I would’ve called the crisis line. What if somebody would’ve asked me, “Are you okay? Do you need help?”Just to have some options, to make a plan, it would’ve made all the difference; that turn could’ve saved me so much pain. But I also know that everybody has a journey, and part of mine is to love other survivors on their journey.
Recently I had to quit my job because I experienced domestic violence. I left my dream job where I had a great mentor relationship with my boss; he was a person who really believed in me and my ability to be a leader at work. I had build relationships with the people I worked with, but because of shame, not wanting them to know what I had experienced, and being scared for my safety, I left that incredible job. After giving my abuser the power to take my dream away from me, I decided I wasn’t going to run anymore.
Everything that was meant to destroy me has empowered me, saved me. I don’t look like what I’ve been through. As a volunteer Board Member at Call to Safety, I’m proud to share my story. People are waking up everyday with no hope. I want them to know that there is life after abuse. There is life after rape. There is life after darkness.
Please support the important work of Call to Safety to ensure more survivors have access to safe options when fleeing violence.
Sincerely,
Shalimar Williams