Recently, I heard a story of someone who was allegedly being neglected by those closest to them and also taking advantage of their monetary value to care for them. This person was afraid to speak up for fear of their rights being stripped from them or even worse, for fear of abuse or further neglect.
I also stumbled across a story of young people being abused or exploited by someone they trusted.
Instead of posting about it, in efforts to gain likes, pay attention to those around you. If you see personality changes, or a change in someone’s hygiene, appearance or mood. Even a shift in their environment such as the folks they hang around is usually a sign.
A simple smile and a few words will let someone know your sincerity. Words like: “if you need anything, I’m here for you” or “how can I assist you” or “if you ever need to talk, between you and I, I’ll listen.”
This almost always opens the door for more dialogue.
You never know what others may be suffering through. A little time to stop and listen may change a person’s entire life. Young people or senior citizens are the most vulnerable because they are confused and don’t know how to sort through tough situations. Positive guidance is always helpful.
And let’s not be so quick to judge what a person has done because we don’t know or may not understand the road they’ve had to travel. Instead, lend a hand or an ear. And more importantly, pray for them and with them. This kind of support, my friend, costs us nothing.
Be safe, and protect those around us.
**If you or someone you know or believe is being or has been abused or neglected—whether through abuse, bullied, abandonment, exploitation, or trafficking of a child or a vulnerable adult—please do not hesitate to call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2863.
The Florida Abuse Hotline will accept your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
A report can be filed before, during or after suspected abuse. (No limited time frame) It can also be filed anonymously or otherwise and will result in immediate action.
