Domestic violence in paradise

At Issue: The steady increase in domestic violence in the calm sea of paradise is indeed very alarming.

Our View: It takes more than tougher laws to deal with this issue to help abused spouses and children.

The causes of domestic violence that victimize spouses and innocent children in families throughout these isles is varied and, indeed, very alarming. What’s even more alarming is the existence of repeat offenders. This case scenario hardly offers any solace for victims to exit a dysfunctional family setting primarily because of economics.

Understandably, abused spouses dread the thought of returning to their parents for fear of being ridiculed to death with unsolicited riot slams for making a mistake. But then it could very well be the only alternative in sight as the abused seeks realistic options to put an end to violence both she and her children do not deserve. Now, the bigger question is: How do families deal with an abusive and violent padre de familia?

Indeed, there’s no working manual on how to help dysfunctional families return to normalcy. This makes it more difficult dealing with domestic violence. We’re dealing with human beings whose problems are more serious than meets the eye. And even if we approve harsh punishments for abusive husbands, it isn’t the sole answer to a social problem we have long denied. Perhaps, it takes a village to educate the abusive husband how to deal with anger or its causes and why it is wrong to turn the mother of your children into a punching bag. Buckle down, sir, and ask yourself the following:

1.) Is violence the legacy that you wish to leave behind for your children and do they really deserve it when in fact they look up to you for daily guidance along with your spouse?

2.) Perhaps you need the benefits of spiritual development so you can use it as a foundation to encourage positive activities that revolve around strengthening the family unit. It won’t hurt talking to your pastor for guidance.

3.) If alcohol is the culprit in your return bout to inflicting physical harm to your spouse, isn’t time that you part permanently with your beer or liquor?

4.) You are a part of the equation in establishing your family. Pitch-in so that your children can benefit from stability in a functional family.

There’s an old saying in Chamorro: “Man builds a house, woman makes a home”. Think about it because your spouse needs your help in a family obligation that requires constant nurturing, not physical and psychological beatings. You owe it to her and your children. Si Yuus Maase`!