Always the Fight Ministries: Displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse. (c)2019Nancy Virden

It is interesting how misunderstood the term “abuse” is. The best definition I’ve heard is, “taking advantage of someone who is unable to protect himself or herself.” This is not only physical overpowering, but emotional, psychological, financial, and more.

I was in a situation where I could not respond (or thought I could not) because I had a guest in the house. The person who hit me took advantage of the situation knowing I would be quiet.

In another situation, I heard a dad berating his children calling them terrible names.  That was taking advantage of people too young to know what to do or to even understand what was happening.

Harassment is abuse too, as the person takes advantage of various ways to enter his target’s sphere.  This past spring, a young man was greatly verbally abusive toward me.  After a grace period of about a week, he had not stopped and had, in fact, begun demanding my time and money. I told him never to contact me again and told him why.

It fell on deaf ears. Text and phone messages have not ceased. I have not read or listened to any of them since the first or second one. Of course, it was a continuation of his accusations and verbal onslaught.

His phone calls come anywhere from midnight to four in the morning. A month ago he had a stranger contact me to ask if I will talk to him. Last week he commented on my Facebook page.

Boundaries are not to stop another person. We have no control over the choices of others. Boundaries are circles we draw around ourselves which give us the power to decide what we will or will not allow in.

At first his harassment frightened me. No more. I have the Almighty God on my side. I refuse to allow fear in my circle.  It is not blind denial – it is the certainty that nothing can happen to a daughter of God unless he allows it for a greater purpose.

People who have no boundaries of their own will not understand the concept. Perhaps that is why this young man keeps pushing – he has no idea that no means no.

Today’s Helpful Word

Psalm 119: 41,42

Lord, give me your unfailing love, the salvation that you promised me. Then I can answer those who taunt me, for I trust in your word.

**** COMMENTS ALWAYS WELCOME
NOTE: I am not a doctor or mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.
If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.
If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. (for international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!