Something just happened which I need to relate and get off my chest.
The Runtyun and I had just finished having lunch with the Grands and Martha. It was the first time Mother had been able to have lunch outside of her rehab facility since her accident. Lunch went well, the food was good and the family time will last in my memory for a long lasting and pleasant smile.
As all things must do, our time came to an end, Mom had to go back and relax, and the Runtyun and I found our way to a store for clothes. (Imagine that!) No luck on the buying front, but this is expected when we go clothes shopping.
However, as we were pulling into the store I noticed a lady going in with clothes to trade, she looked like she was carrying more weight on her shoulders then the pile in her arms. I thought nothing about it because the place accepts consignments. Well, after a few minutes of waiting for the Runtyun to find something, she came to me and no said there was nothing for her right now, so we left.
I noticed the lady I just mentioned was out by her car too. Not paying much attention to her I kept walking. As I walked past her car though, I saw a sign that said "Victim of abuse." There was more printed on the sign, but my eye was drawn to the woman. She was crying.
I have to admit that I almost kept going.
But I turned around and called out to her. She turned to me balling her eyes out, her tears flowing from the release of emotion which she failed to control. After some time she was able to communicate that her boyfriend was going to hurt her and she had to leave. She was at this store trying to get some gas money.
It turns out this woman lives a ways from here. How she got to Asheville, I do not know. I think maybe, she just got in her car trying to save herself from another beating and is stranded here with no money or friends.
The woman was truly distraught and my heart needed to help in some way. I told her she was welcome to come over to our place for a minute until she felt strong enough to do something. I gave her my contact info in case she decided to take us up on the offer. Truly, I don't think I will ever hear from her, but I had to do something.
I wanted to do more than offer help. But she was running from a man and I feared my helping would only make things worse for her. I did not push anymore.
She has my phone number and if she calls I will answer and give whatever aid I can. But some how, I feel I could have done more.
As the Runtyun and I were driving home, I could not stop thinking about this poor woman. I think though, when one offers to help, and genuinely wants to do the right thing, and the offer is declined, one should walk away and know they have done the right thing.
I just hate thinking that she will have no place safe go to tonight. Maybe I could have been more persuasive.
olc
