Posted by CoriB at f1-1cc.harlequin.com on February 24, 2000 at 12:40:26:
In Reply to: Re: UMass Trip posted by Kevin on February 24, 2000 at 10:06:10:
As a woman who has been assaulted, let me express my thanks at your compassion on the subject. I am bias, obviously, but I do have some comments which come from a personal knowledge of the subject:
Most men (and I did say MOST not ALL) will never understand what it is like to be cornered, to know that someone towers over you and to know that what is going through their mind may forever alter yours, it is a fear unlike any other.
Most men do not have to sit crying and telling their significant other that they have been assaulted while he was out doing some "guy" thing with his friends and watch as he slowly begins to turn into an animal that wants to kill which is only surpassed by his awesome guilt of not being there to protect.
Most men will never understand what it is like to be violated, despite fighting, kicking, screaming and pleading, in places which are private and pure and supposed to wholly be YOURS for eternity.
And most men can't comprehend what it takes to get your dignity and self worth back after such a thing happens and to be able to venture out into the world on your own without fear of being attacked.
Unfortunately, men and women are different, in build, in thought processes. It is just plain fact. Society further separates us into power structures. In most cases, women defer to men. But with education - like you, Kevin, learning from your wife- perhaps small but significant changes can occur, and understanding is a possibility.
It is a hope of mine.
And you have given that hope some light.
Blessings to you and your family, Kevin.
And Jen, thanks for being able to stand up and be a voice.
Cori