He was sound asleep, head under a blanket with feet sticking out. How many times have those feet carried him from danger or into it to save his mom? Asleep because he’s feeling safe, at last.
I was snapping some photos at HEAL and the Nest yesterday . . . a domestic abuse shelter. As the director was showing me the facility, my emotions were mixed. Joy and relief at knowing that such an extraordinary facility and support system exists, and sadness that such a place is still needed. Will humanity ever evolve enough to understand that violence only begets violence?
His mom giggled good-naturedly when I asked permission for the photo. Then she apologized for his feet being dirty, as if that should matter in the big picture.
Domestic violence hurts everyone . . .everyone. If you’re an abuser, stop and get help. If you are a victim, you don’t have to be. There is a safe haven for you and for your children.
May these little feet run only for joy, laughter and play –what childhood is supposed to be about.
Great photo and write-up, Helene!
Thank you, Helene.
I showed this to the Mom and the child featured in the photo. He was so thrilled (he recognized his “toe toes”) and Mom…well, such joy has not been know much in their lives. You bring a new dimension to these amazingly courageous and strong women.
Bless you, Helene.
C
THIS IS WHY WE WORK SO HARD,WE ARE COMMITED TO THE MANY WOMEN AND CHILDREN AT “THE NEST” AND TO THOSE WHO WHO ARE YET TO COME. TO GIVE THEM A PLACE, A SAFE PLACE. TO GIVE THEM HOPE ,HOPE FOR THE FURTURE
THANKS FOR TELLING OUR STORY !!!
This is beautiful!
Thank you so much for being able to see the beauty of these little feet. Truly our purpose at the Nest is to keep these little feet, and his Mommy safe. The picture captured little feet that could take a time to rest, and on a new day play and just be happy little feet. When I met you I could not help but notice every other word from your mouth was the word Love. This is the word that will open the doors for all tired little feet and frightened little feet, to find safety with their Mothers at the Nest. Thank you for capturing the tired little feet. Love will save the tired little feet.
Helene, As a Board Member of HEAL, I sincerely thank you for your wonderful portrait in the picture and in your words. God bless!
I pray the cycle of violence be stopped by the young man featured. May these little feet grow into a man who walks his family through love, understanding and peace of mind and he steps up to responsibility and accountability. Thank you for finding the beauty in watching victims become survivors.