Though I was excited about seeing my family again, I trudged home, my mind still spinning from the stress of work. However, my peace didn’t last long because a mean shout cut through the city’s hum. People in the park did nothing while a man yelled at his crying wife. Because I was angry, I stepped in and stopped the abuse.
When I got close, the man’s angry words and wild, violent movements cut through the air. I took out my phone and called 911. Then I turned on my camera and started to record the abuse. I took his attention away by saying, “Hey, you!” To get a good picture, smile. The man turned around and glared at me with anger.
I stood my ground and wrote down what he did. Soon, other people joined in and took notes from different points of view.
The attacker lost his cool, and he walked away, leaving the woman in tears. I went up to her and offered my support and friendship. A nice lawyer offered to help her, and then the cops showed up.
The story went viral, which started a talk about how the public can help with cases of domestic violence. The woman sent me a message to thank me for getting involved and to tell me about her plans to go to court.
I felt proud when I thought about what I had done because I knew it had made a difference. The way my family responded made me feel good, and I understood that one person’s actions can have a big impact on how things turn out. There was a turning point that Tuesday night. It showed us all that we can make a difference.
