Tina Norris, a survivor, has made her life purpose to be an advocate against of domestic violence:
"The pain I endured defined for me that I am truly stronger than I could have ever imagined. During my healing process, I discovered me."
Washington, D.C., November 20, 2006 (PAHO)—In a recent interview with The Examiner newspaper of Washington, D.C, Tina Norris, a survivor of domestic violence that has devoted her life to help victims of abuse in the Washington, D.C, metropolitan area and elsewhere in the world, seemed to exhort a great deal of strength and confidence when she told all those who have or are experiencing domestic violence to never lose hope or sight, declaring "there is greatness in you."
Mrs. Norris talked to PAHO about domestic violence and her personal efforts to put and end to this problem from our society.
Mrs. Norris, how would you define such greatness? Pulling from you very own experience, how did you obtain that realization? Is it humbling to accept the 'new' great you that was always there?
Greatness is that inner strength within each of us that does not allow us to give up on life or ourselves regardless of what we may or have endured. The pain I endured defined for me that I am truly stronger than I could have ever imagined. The greatness that lies within each of us is being perfected daily as we overcome and survive trails and tribulations. I have learned that what does not kill me will indeed make me stronger. I am wiser today because of what I endured yesterday. I agree: it is truly humbling to accept and acquaint myself with the real me. Yes, the greatness was always there I had to embrace it.
Has the concept of faith played a major role in the process you just described?
My faith is very important to me. My faith sustained me during the lowest time of my life. Believing that I had greatness during that time seemed unbelievable and certainly unattainable. During my healing process, I discovered me. I found that my pain gave me a passion to embrace my purpose. My purpose in life is to empower women that they too can make it out of an abusive relationship. This was a time of divine discovery for me. I accepted my past and allowed it to be my stepping stone to a greater and more fulfilled life. The greatness was always there and now that I have embraced it the world will benefit from my experience.
Talking about relationships in general and with regard to the issue of abuse, has your own, personal experience made you think widely and out of the box about the phenomenon of Love? Have you reflected on why it does seem that in our culture nowadays, more and more people and individuals in couples seem to shy away and shut down to feel and accept feelings, such as those of love and happiness?
I believe overcoming abuse has played a major role in shaping my viewpoint and outlook on a variety of topics including love. It is important to understand that many victims of domestic violence are violated by those closest to them; husbands and/or boyfriends. Accepting that those closest to them could cause this level of harm is everyone's fear. However, the reality is that this level of betrayal and devastation does occur. Healing from an abusive relationship takes time and learning to trust again takes even longer. Some resist love due to fear while others feel it is easier to remain alone than to face the possibility that abuse could occur again. This saddens me because some really wonderful people that have experienced horrific pain have been robbed from experiencing true love and yes true love does exit because I am experiencing it after all I have endured.
Do you think domestic violence is something that goes and touches something far more substantial than mere gender?
Domestic violence is an epidemic that is unfortunately widespread. It wreaks havoc not only in the lives of the victim but also the lives of those associated with the victim. Domestic violence can happen to anyone anywhere and yes the rich and famous are affected as well. It is not limited to a specific gender, race or geographical location. Domestic violence robs individuals of their self-worth, identity and their dignity.
What is the most important message that you call relay to all those that are affected one way or the other by domestic violence?
The most important message is the importance of uniting to give voice to victims of domestic violence globally. We are indeed our brothers and sisters keeper. We have to notice those that are around us. Notice if you are use to hearing from a friend or loved one daily and you see that the contacts are becoming less and less, question why? If you see bruises, question it. If your friend or family member is becoming withdrawn and isolated, question it. We must more away from "it is not by business" and "I don't want to get involved." Your involvement might just save a life. I truly believe that I have been called to be that voice. I understand and can empathize with the rare of emotions associated with domestic violence as well as empower women that they too can make it. I have compassion for those that are hurting and if my life and story can help one woman then my living has not been in vain.
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