Last week as the verdict in the Heard-Depp trial came in, the local domestic violence workers were concerned; in fact, they were worried. Images of a clearly disquieted woman pitted against an angry man out for vengeance – and possibly to save his career as a dashing lover – were riveting to many watchers of celebrity life.
The woman had obtained a restraining order. At one point; a photo of her with the bruised face and bloody lip had appeared on one of those magazines at supermarket checkouts. But that wasn’t the end of it. It was her op-ed in The Washington Post that became the object of the action.
As an attorney who represents women from countries where the institutional protection of men is so obvious, it was more than disappointing to see that played out in America. But what was just as disturbing were the teenage girls cheering Depp on. It made me wonder how many of them in the future would end up in a court hearing seeking protection just as did the woman they disparaged.
Prayer for the Day
Frozen and unable to change important parts of our lives,
We are trapped in our images of the world as we think it should be;
Immobilized by our memories of times past, we seethe in anger,
But also unable to move beyond our own complicity.
Move us, O God, beyond inaction and regret
So we can be instruments of change and justice.
In the name of the One who calls us to do justice,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
You can recognize survivors of abuse by their courage. When silence is so very inviting, they step forward and share their truth so others know they aren't alone.
- Jeanne McElvaney, writer
All violence is the illustration of a pathetic stereotype.
- Barbara Kruger, American conceptual artist
Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity,
And I have trusted in the Lord without wavering.
Prove me, O Lord, and try me; test my heart and mind.
For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in faithfulness with you.
Psalm 26: 1-3