.

Last night I heard some very disturbing news. Two people I deeply care about said that their husbands were beating them. First I felt blind rage, then a sense of helpness and finally frustration when they both begged me not to say or do anything about it. Both these ladies are among the kindest and gentlest individuals I know, and it would be a travesty to even consider raising your voice against them, let alone raising a hand. What's worse is that both cases of violence resulted from minor arguements.

Why would they do such a thing? Both these guys are highly educated and successful. They were brought up in a modern manner in big comopolitan cities. They're the same guys who are always buddy buddy with me, who asured me that they would take care of their wives on their wedding days. Are they so insecure and warped that they have to resort to violence to make a point? That too in non-situations. I can't even fathom it. I can't fathom why someone would hit anyone else, woman or man with almost no provocation. Add that to the fact that the victims in question are people they supposedly love makes it all the more disgusting. Would they take it if their children(God forbid) or their sisters are beaten by someone? What kind of sick double standard is that? The scary part is that most people would never believe that these guys are capable of anything of this sort. Imagine the multitude horrors that exist behind closed doors in that case.

Granted that women who don't stand up against this thing are partly to blame. But not everyone has the mental and physical strength to do so. Some need a helping hand. They need to know that there are people who truly care about them willing to stand shoulder to shoulder with them through anything that they have to face.

I felt violent thoughts surging within me but I stilled them preferring to use my mind instead of my fists. I told them both to consult lawyers and make themselves as financially independant as they could, so they could walk out on such nightmares with their heads held high, with courage, instead of cowering in front of some obvious coward.

Also, I know many who have shown this incredible level of mental strength and stood up against this kind of abuse. I humbly offer my admiration and hope that their example will inspire others in the same situation.

Sigh. Is there any hope for the human race?