October has come and gone, but not before it taught me about some worthy and rather interesting causes. Did you know that breast cancer, domestic violence, lupus, and diabetes are given national attention in the month of October? Likewise, popping popcorn, being sarcastic, and eating country ham share national space in October as well.  I’m sure popcorn, sarcasm, and country ham have their followers, but lest we forget the devastating impact breast cancer, domestic violence, lupus, and diabetes can have on almost anyone and the importance of education and prevention.

Although, I am not a victim or survivor of any of these illnesses and yes, I’m calling domestic violence a societal ill, I was compelled to write a novel focusing on domestic violence. No one should have to be a victim or survivor to join the cause to prevent these illnesses in our nation. I often find myself apologizing for not having the experience of domestic violence. Sometimes, I even preface an interview, article, or conversation with “I’m not a counselor or victim or survivor. I’m just a writer.” Domestic Violence Awareness Month taught me no more apologizes or prefaces needed. I am a woman, writer, and self-proclaimed advocate for victims through my heart and imagination. When October ended, I vowed to make no more apologizes for that.

I want to encourage everyone to invest in whatever cause speaks to your spirit whether you have experiences with it or not. You were led to it for a reason and no apologies needed.