Relationships

You hear your own voice getting firm and immediately wonder whether you have become cruel. Perhaps someone crossed a boundary. Perhaps you have explained the same problem six times. Yet …

Back in 1993, a young wife named Lorena Bobbitt severed her husband’s male part. When Lorena went on trial, she had to disclose something she did not want to share. …

Why do some people need endless explanations before they’ll respect a reasonable boundary? You explain calmly, reassure them, and answer their questions. Yet somehow, you’re still defending the precaution while …

You do not have to stop feeling apprehensive before you can stand by what you said. Your voice may shake. You may need to read from a note. Dignity does …

Someone can be deeply loved and still have nobody at home they feel safe telling. Having worked on hotlines, I know that people sometimes call or open a chat because …

Women Are Expected to Protect Men’s Feelings Women are often encouraged to soften their words, cushion rejection, and avoid embarrassing men. Even when a woman is uncomfortable, people may worry …

Have y’all ever noticed how quickly a woman’s presence becomes important when a man needs defending? I’m talking about those moments when a man is facing serious accusations, sometimes even …

I want to talk about something that deserves a little tenderness. Sometimes, when we talk about recognizing danger, the conversation can begin sounding as though people who have been abused …

Years ago, I interviewed for a position with a statewide sexual violence coalition. I had earned my bachelor’s degree (Organizational Management and Development) from a Christian university not far from …

I literally have a theme song for when I need to return to this lesson. Blame It on Me by Chrisette Michelle. “You can say whatever you like. As long …