By: Colleen McVey
My 14 year old daughter is a big Chris Brown fan. Until a month ago his picture on her bulletin board meant nothing to me. Now that has changed.
A few days ago we were in the car and the latest news on the Brown-Rihanna abuse case came on the radio. My daughter casually remarked that Brown could never have done what he's accused of. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. She was defending a man who is now charged with two felonies for what police describe as a brutal argument between the singer and his girlfriend.
I wasted no time using the news story, which she and her friends have been talking about, to talk about abuse - something we had not yet discussed.
First, I told her NO ONE should EVER hit her, but if someone does she should never keep it to herself. I told her when it comes to abuse - it's a strict "one strike - you're out" rule"! I told her about the countless news stories we've done about women who were beaten and bruised over and over again. Many blamed themselves or were too frightened to get help and too many ended up dead.
I think my very emotional reaction to her casual comment took her by surprise. I don't think she really understood how serious this issue is - I hope that's changed.
The Brown arrest just started the dialog. This conversation is far from over, especially now that we are hearing reports that Brown and Rihanna may have reconciled. If that's true, after he allegedly bit her on the ear and punched, hit, and choked her - then there are more lessons to be learned. I will make sure my daughter and I follow this story together.