By FP Nkoana
In a small community, Grandma Louis lived with her four grandchildren: John (16), Nancy (11), Lola (8), and Mercy (5). Their parents had tragically passed away in a car accident four years earlier. With her pension and the children’s grant money, Louis did everything she could to provide a safe and loving home.
She wanted her grandchildren to feel loved and never forgotten, despite their loss. She spoiled them when she could, and especially tried to comfort John, who was deeply broken by the death of his parents. But John’s grief turned into anger and pain. He began using drugs to numb himself, and soon his behaviour changed.
One day, John demanded money from his grandmother. When she explained that she had already used it for groceries and essentials, he became aggressive. He shouted at her, pushed her, and accused her of misusing the grant. That was the beginning of the abuse.
Day after day, John manipulated his grandmother, knowing she loved him too much to call the police. He insulted her, broke things in the house, and frightened his younger siblings. The neighbours heard the fights, but Louis always defended John, saying he was still grieving. She believed prayer and faith would heal him, and even borrowed money from loan sharks to meet his demands.
What Louis didn’t realize was that she was living in a cycle of domestic violence. Abuse within families is often hidden because victims protect their loved ones, deny the reality, or fear what the community will say. But shielding the abuser only makes the situation worse. Violence escalates when unchecked, and it can lead to serious harm.
The younger children were heartbroken, caught between their love for their brother and their grandmother. They didn’t understand why John would hurt the woman who cared for them so deeply. They felt powerless, as though they were failing their family.
✨ Key Awareness Message
• Abuse is not only physical; it can be emotional, financial, and psychological.
• Love should never be confused with tolerance of violence.
• Protecting an abuser out of fear or shame can put the entire family at risk.
• Seeking help is not betrayal—it is protection and healing.
📖 Bible Verses for Strength
• “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” — Psalm 9:9
• “He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.” — Psalm 147:3
• “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10
💡 Closing Thought
Domestic violence can happen in any household, even where love and faith are strong. Recognizing abuse, speaking out, and seeking support are acts of courage that protect families and break the cycle of harm.
About the Author
