Sin by Silence Blog

A Stranger Becomes a Friend

Oct 3rd, 2009 In: Director's Notes Sin by Silence Tour By: admin Comments 0

Yesterday we had the amazing experience to share Sin by Silence at the New Life Center in Arizona.  As I walked through these amazing 4 acres of change, I was reminded that change is possible.

About 4o women seeking refuge at this shelter were able to watch Sin by Silence and know that they mattered.  As we talked and cried after the film I was able really connect with one amazing women.  She has just left her abusive relationship of 15 years for the first time.  She had only been at the facility for a month and was sharing with me how difficult it was to not go back.  She had only previously lived 5 miles from the facility and she knew that only 5 miles away meant heartache.  Yet, she still felt that magnet drawing her back towards the pain.

As we continued to talk, she shared with me how she had never felt loved.  Never felt wanted.  Never felt she deserved anything.  Yet, last night she was able to feel special because she felt like she had made a friend.  In watching the film, she really connected with Rosemary Dyer of Convicted Women Against Abuse.  This Arizona woman was able to relate to Rosemary’s pain.  She felt a bond with her like she had never felt.  Someone she had never met, and probably never will meet was able to connect with her through the film.

So, as this recent survivor left from the evening’s event she clenched onto the postcard of Rosemary that we hand out for people to remain in touch with the women in the film.  With tears in her eyes she asked me if it really was okay to write to Rosemary.  I got a stamp out of my purse and placed it on the postcard encouraging her to mail a letter tonight.  This experience really was a reminder to me to realize the bond that they survivors have.  Whether they are in prison or out of prison, it doesn’t matter.  There is a sisterhood among survivors.  A bond that helps to carry them through the day.  And it is such an honor to help be a little portion of the glue that helps bring these two worlds together to help heal from such a painful past.