Watch out for Abuse: it is happening under our nose!

When we say abuse is ongoing in our communities, some think it is probably not true. This is just to remind us that we should stay alert and see if we can help some of us to overcome it.

 I am sharing this clip of a Kenyan woman who was abused in the United States as a slave just to remind you to be on the look out. Watch out for red flags and do what is needed to stop it.  

The Kenyan woman who was allegedly abused when she worked as a "domestic worker" for a Diplomat from Saudi Arabia in the U.S.
http://www.kenyamoja.com/featured/kenyan-held-as-domestic-slave/

A 17 years homeless girl graduates from school.

It is rare to see inspirational stories like this one. Yes, life can be cruel and difficult. However, with dscipline and some support, we can overcome. Chelsea's story is illustrative of hopes and possibilities. Never, ever give up. You just never know.

Read more hear http://now.msn.com/homeless-teen-chelsea-fearce-graduates-valedictorian-of-high-school

If You Suspect Beastly Behavior, You are Probably Right - Act

Yes, when beastly behavior is explained away as sickness, or mental illness, one cannot but feel sick in return. The recent case of abuse of three women by Castro for 10 to 15 years is the worst of the human forms of abuse. When a human being chooses to do what Castro did to the three human beings, something is truly wrong. It is for this reason that I urge each of us to watch out for girls or women who disappear. There are many beats like Castor in our society. It is our duty to watch out for them and to protect those we love.

Talking of our responsibility, it is truly sad to imagine that these women lived in captivity for over ten years in a free country such as the United States. It is even more devastating to know that they were held right under our own nose. While we want to rush and blame the police force for not doing enough to protect these women, we must always remember that police force can only help us if we are helpful to them as well. When we observe, suspect something is wrong; it is our responsibility to follow through by acting on our instincts. Three lives would have been saved if someone in the neighborhood had found the sealed windows suspicious and called for an investigation; these women would probably have been saved many years ago.

Did you know that reports of missing persons have increased six fold in the past 25 years, from roughly 150,000 in 1980 to about 900,000 this year? While the increase is due in part to the growing population, the number is still astounding. About 2,300 Americans are reported missing every day. In 2001 alone about 840,279people were reported missing persons. This is an epidemic. We need to be our neighbor’s watchdogs. With such an alarming statistics of many children and adults disappearing from our communities, we have a lot of work to do to protect those we love. Let’s reclaim our humanity. Let's get to work. In your opinion, what kind of suspiciou things should we look for if we are to uncover abuse, kidnappings, and suscpicious behavior? I would like to hear from you.

Officer In Charge Of Preventing Sexual Assault Arrested For Sexual Assault

What is the world coming to? Moral decay is a reflection of a sick society. Read more here.

http://msmagazine.com/blog/2013/05/07/air-force-officer-in-charge-of-preventing-sexual-assault-was-arrested-for-sexual-assault/

A Hug is Worth a Smile!!!

Do you sense sadness, depression, desperation in a friend, neighbor, family member? I do all the time!! Don't just pass by as if nothing is wrong? Something could well be very wrong? Did you know a hug can change all that? Yes, indeed. A hug is worth a smile. it could be worth much more you know! If only we could show others concern, care and love,  we could change lives and probably save some.

 During our cookout event, we extend ourselves to friends, neighbors, and even our enemies. As we gather, we plan to gesture care, love and concern for others. It is as easy as extending a hug to the other person. Come join us as we hug each other, forgive each other, and listen to each other. Come share about how else to improve in our efforts to care. Those basic human qualities are central to who we are as social beings.

Bring a friend, let's eat together, and help give away information that will help those in abused circumstances. Be part of this!! The feeling is great!!! I hope to see more of you there. Elm Street park is the venue. Hopefully the weather will be great!!

If you cannot make it, don’t worry about it. Extend a hug to your family, friends, and neighbors wherever you are. Let's promote peace. - Peace.