Abuse comes in many forms

We naturally think abuse is often physical or sexual. But there's so many more ways someone can be abusive to others.

I want to tread a little lightly here. I don't want people to get to the point where you are afraid to say anything to anyone and the term abuse is thrown around for everything someone may say or do that we don't like. But we definitely need to be way more mindful of how we talk to and treat others. (Think of all the "Karen" videos out there where the "Karen" claims they are their victim after they've behaved terribly.)

The hurtful things that are said or done in relationships, often on a daily basis, can't cause long lasting trauma. I'm surprised at how those types of abusers think about their words and actions when you're able to sit down and talk to them. I've heard, I didn't really think it was that serious, I didn't think it was that big a deal, were some of the common ones. Even after acknowledging their spouse tried to talk to them about how hurt they had been.

Some of these "I had no idea" comments came from people that are deemed "nice" by society and are intelligent. It makes them so easy for them to slip in under the radar. Often they are subtle comments or actions that can be easily overlooked, easily ignored, and easily given an excuse for. I was tired, I was under a lot of stress, I wasn't thinking,.. the list can go on.

We allow things to slide. We try to be understanding. We all have bad days. But the damaging comments should be few and far between. Relationships should be about building up, not tearing down. Snide comments can be abusive comments. If you're not sure, talk to someone. If you're wondering if you're crazy, then you're probably not. You deserve to be treated exactly how you want to be treated and don't settle for anything less.

I added a cute photo of Lucia the sloth from the Great Bend Zoo in KS because who can have a bad day when you look at this face

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