And there are times when we should listen carefully because listening may very well save our lives.

I can think of the countless number of times that I have encountered victims of domestic violence who were in the process of leaving violent relationships.  I often reminded them that though I was there as an advocate to pass on more information to them, they were the experts. 

No matter who they added to their team-cops, lawyers, advocates, counselors- no one knew their partner, their partner's moods, preferences, triggers, schedule, etc; quite the way that they did.  

Whenever a Woman told me: "I think that he is going to kill me." I believed her. A unique and individualized safety plan was then developed.

But, that's my profession. Something I'm passionate about. 

I want us to move to a space where everyday folks get into this mode for women in their lives so that we can save more lives.  Because we all must do more to keep women and children safe. 

Too often, people- even family and friends- make the mistake of accusing a woman or child in fear of being "paranoid", "dramatic", or "overreacting."  And then, that woman or child is gone and it is too late to listen to them.

 Something that we just don't hear enough:, "I was wrong. I did not listen. I did not do enough to help keep her safe when she told me that she was afraid." 

If you have not read this book yet please make 2024 the year that you read The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker. 

Each and every woman and every person who cares about a woman ought to read this book from cover to cover.