Victim VS Survivor

“I’m A Survivor” by Reba McEntire

I was born 3 months too early
The doctor gave me 30 days
But I must have had my mama’s will
And God’s amazing grace
I guess I’ll keep on livin
Even if this love’s to die for
Cuz your bags are packed
And I ain’t cryin
Your walkin out and I’m not tryin
To change your mind
Cuz I was born to be

The baby girl without a chance
A victim of circumstance
The one who oughta give up
But she’s just too hard headed
A single mom
Who works 2 jobs
Who loves her kids and never stops
With gentle hands
And the heart of a fighter
I’m a survivor

I don’t believe in self pity
It only brings you down
May be the queen of broken hearts
But I don’t hide behind the crown
When the deck is stacked against me
I just play a different game
My roots are planted in the past
And though my life is changing fast
Who I am is who I wanna be

The baby girl without a chance
A victim of circumstance
The one who oughta give up
But she’s just too hard headed
A single mom
Who works 2 jobs
Who loves her kids and never stops
With gentle hands
And the heart of a fighter
I’m a survivor

Oh a single mom
Who works 2 jobs
Who loves her kids and never stops
With gentle hands
And the heart of a fighter
I’m a survivor

But I must have had my mama’s will
And God’s amazing grace
(I’m a survivor)

For your consideration…..

In Domestic Violence we always refer to clients as “survivors.” We never refer to them as “victims.” Why? Because words ARE important. They do have impact. They do carry energy. They do create a picture. They carry meaning and a message.

The word survivor carries HOPE. It does not mean that nothing was done to a person. But it does mean that it did not beat them. A survivor still has power. A survivor can control the ultimate outcome.

How we view ourselves is important. Are we life’s “victims?” Or are we “survivors”, up for and welcoming life’s  challenges…… to conquer and grow?

We have a choice. We always have a choice.

That is the HOPE. And so it is.

Bit by bit, piece by piece, HOPE by HOPE action steps anyone can take……

-Meditate/pray….ask….”What is my next step for my highest good and the highest good of all?”

-Drink lots of water.

-Get outdoors and take in at least 10 deep breaths.

-Conquer.

What made me smile yesterday……

-A great day at school.

-Lots of tasks done after school.

-Good Alex news.

-Messages from both Peanut and Shannon. Wow! A good day. My Peanut rocks school.

Love, Blessings and Gratitude,

Rev. Chris