Not My Responsibility

[poliphilo]

Of course Peter wants to see his kids. And of course it's frustrating for him to go through the legal procedures, but there's absolutely no way I'm short circuiting the system and setting up a meeting between him and Odi. That would be madly irresponsible. Possibly dangerous too. 

So why do I feel so so bad about saying "no" to him? It's the priest in me, isn't it? Father has all the answers, father will make things right.

O no he doesn't. O no he won't.

Comments

[daisytells.livejournal.com]

If she is in a safe house, the house should remain safe. Abusers seldom change for the better. Next time it could be one or both of the children. You did the right thing when you said NO.

[daisytells.livejournal.com]

Also, the children should not have to watch their father choking their mother or otherwise abusing her.

[poliphilo.livejournal.com]

Peter has already had one chance to change. He didn't take it.

Yes, the children shouldn't have to be around the violence.

[daisytells.livejournal.com]

Having been through it repeatedly with the same person I know that no matter how well intentioned said person is, they only get worse over time. the only prudent thing to do is get away from them. Now I know what to watch for. The last time I was so abused was in 1970. I married again in 1973 - to a man who never used violence to settle differences with me.