Random Articles
The Difference Between True Repentance and Temporary Regret
by Brenda Branson (Hanson, Kentucky) Copyright © 2004 In the story of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, there were two men who were sorry for their actions—Peter and Judas. Peter truly loved Jesus and boasted that he would even die for him if necessary. However, when Jesus was arrested and taken to the house of the high priest for a trial based on trumped-up charges, Peter’s resolve crumbled at the first taunt from a servant girl who recognized him as one of Jesus’ followers. Peter boasted a bit too loudly and trusted in his own strength to get him out […]
How To Spot a Batterer Before the Relationship Begins
by Brenda Branson (Hanson, Kentucky) Copyright © 2004 The following red flags are characteristics of an abuser. This does not mean that everyone who demonstrates one or two of these qualities will end up abusing or battering their partners. However, these red flags should be taken seriously. If someone you know demonstrates one or two of these patterns on a consistent basis, he has the potential to become a batterer. Superior attitude toward women. Does he think men are superior to women? Does he feel he “owns” you and has the right to control your thoughts and actions? Does he talk about women in […]
Two Men
by Brenda Branson (Hanson, Kentucky) Copyright © 2000 Two men died that day.Both were guilty. One had the heart of a foolHe was never wrong—always had the last word.He trusted in his own heart,And took pride in doing things “his” way. He blamed others for his misfortunes . . .If they had just treated him better,He wouldn’t be in this situation.It wasn’t his fault! He would rather die than admit he needed help. The other man had a teachable heart.He knew he had made wrong choices,And was ashamed of the person he had become. He wanted to change,But lacked the […]
Fear
by Brenda Branson (Hanson, Kentucky) Copyright © September 2000 I am a prisoner . . .confined not by bars or locked doorsbut by harsh words and raised fists. I am just a few steps away from the open door of freedombut fear holds me back. Fear that his opinion of me may be true . . .That I might really be stupid and unfit.Fear that I will fail on my ownand face his sneers of contempt as he watches me struggle. Fear that no one else will ever love meor comfort me when I’m lonely and afraid.Even though he often […]
Are You Sick and Tired?
By Brenda Branson (Hanson, Kentucky) Copyright © October 2007 “Are you tired of the way the world is turning? Are you tired of the way your life has gone? Do you long for some joy instead of weeping?” As I heard those words being sung, I wanted to stand up and shout with great passion, “Yes! Yes, I’m tired and I’m not going to take it anymore!” I’m tired of the evil in this world—evil that threatens, slaps and punches; evil that hurls missiles of verbal abuse; evil that delights in dominating and demeaning others in order to make oneself feel more […]
Cobras & Pit Bulls
by Brenda Branson (Hanson, Kentucky) Copyright © 2003 All Rights Reserved
All Abuse Hurts
by Brenda Branson (Hanson, Kentucky) Copyright © 2004 All Rights Reserved Most people think “abuse” is just physical attacks such as hitting, punching, kicking, pulling hair, twisting limbs, pinching, slapping, biting, etc.There are many other types of abusive behavior which hurt just as much or more than physical abuse. Just because an abuser stops hitting his spouse doesn’t mean he has stopped being abusive. Here are other varieties of abuse which are just as destructive as physical abuse: Emotional Abuse—Name-calling, mind games, “crazy-making,” belittling, shaming, extreme manipulation, coercion. · Economic Abuse—Withholding money as punishment and making partner beg for necessities, demanding […]