The Contusion
In deep slumber, I was awakened by someone’s touch. Someone was probing me in the dark. My sleepy eyes focuses on my aunt’s husband who was visiting us. He has a rakish grin pasted on his face.
I was 13 & an epitome of ignorance. But one look at him made my danger antennas go up. With one smooth leap, I was on my feet bolting to my parents bedroom. My brain was in a state of shock. Was I imagining things ? In a confused way I try to explain to my folks that our visiting relative was not a nice person. Mum confutes my statement. She knows what a nerd I am….but not Dad. The relative profusely apologizes to them the next day quoting his unforgivable behavior to sleep walking.
This impressionable incident scarred me to the extent that in my growing years, I would get tense & spooked if left alone with a stranger. I realize today that I got off very lightly & not many are as lucky as I was.
Most sexual offences happen to children much younger & by people who are generally known to the child. The confused child does not know how to react to this kind of perverted behavior & consents thinking it to be a normal act of some kind in many cases.
Most people fear for their girl child. Here, I would like to reiterate that the onus is not always on the girl child. A male child is equally susceptible to sexual abuse.
Recent years have seen a rising spate in such condemnable acts. This piece is to create awareness amongst all responsible adults to treat such issues with utter seriousness. To create awareness amongst all, that sexual abuse & rape is not something we read in the news papers happening to other people. We can definitely skirt this danger by exercising gumption & prudence.
Teach your child the difference between a good touch & a bad touch. Bathe your child as often as you can. Knowing your child’s body not only makes you aware of how they are growing but also if there are any tell tale signs of physical abuse. Never leave your child unattended or alone with strangers or people you do not trust. Do not trust your child with relatives or friends you don’t know well. While choosing a day care center, research the credentials of the people running it. Talk to parents who have been regulars there. Ensure that your child grows in a healthy & safe environment.
Copyright © BuntysBanter 2005
I was 13 & an epitome of ignorance. But one look at him made my danger antennas go up. With one smooth leap, I was on my feet bolting to my parents bedroom. My brain was in a state of shock. Was I imagining things ? In a confused way I try to explain to my folks that our visiting relative was not a nice person. Mum confutes my statement. She knows what a nerd I am….but not Dad. The relative profusely apologizes to them the next day quoting his unforgivable behavior to sleep walking.
This impressionable incident scarred me to the extent that in my growing years, I would get tense & spooked if left alone with a stranger. I realize today that I got off very lightly & not many are as lucky as I was.
Most sexual offences happen to children much younger & by people who are generally known to the child. The confused child does not know how to react to this kind of perverted behavior & consents thinking it to be a normal act of some kind in many cases.
Most people fear for their girl child. Here, I would like to reiterate that the onus is not always on the girl child. A male child is equally susceptible to sexual abuse.
Recent years have seen a rising spate in such condemnable acts. This piece is to create awareness amongst all responsible adults to treat such issues with utter seriousness. To create awareness amongst all, that sexual abuse & rape is not something we read in the news papers happening to other people. We can definitely skirt this danger by exercising gumption & prudence.
Teach your child the difference between a good touch & a bad touch. Bathe your child as often as you can. Knowing your child’s body not only makes you aware of how they are growing but also if there are any tell tale signs of physical abuse. Never leave your child unattended or alone with strangers or people you do not trust. Do not trust your child with relatives or friends you don’t know well. While choosing a day care center, research the credentials of the people running it. Talk to parents who have been regulars there. Ensure that your child grows in a healthy & safe environment.
Copyright © BuntysBanter 2005
posted by Bunty's Banter at 12:13 AM
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