Alright, so I created a burner account/name to post this because I think it's very important in regards to not just this situation, but a LOT of situations similar to this. We need to address abuse, mental health, and how to recover on a topic like this.
I'm a well known poster on this board, several years here, adamant Mean Green guy (Even if I'm not the biggest SL fan, still a Green fan).
Domestic violence and you: a dissertation regarding what can and could be
As a victim (and yes, men can be victims) of domestic violence, this is something that is very difficult to put into words. I sent my wife to jail about 1 1/2 years ago because she repeatedly hit me, attacked me with a knife (yes, very literally), and threatened my life. Sure, I figured I could stand up to it and take the hits. Not the point, NO ONE should deal with this, no matter how bad a husband you may be accused to be, or actually be.
What's the point though? One bad day.
We had one bad day. That's what it takes. We had just had a miscarriage. pandemic forced me to work from home, in each others bubbles 24/7. we had been drinking maybe too much. Whatever the combination, we had one bad day. It's not an excuse, just a bunch of reasons.
I believe justice should be swift, harsh, and punishing. You never want to repeat that. If something bad happens, you end it NOW!
So, what remains now? Well, we are now trying for our third kid (after another miscarriage). We don't drink. Over a year in marriage and mental health counseling. We are probably more in love than we have been in nearly 10 years. Things are better and can be. We are not the normal result.
This doesn't have to end your life. But if you don't change from it, it can and maybe should. I'm not saying we should be quick to forgive, to reconcile, or anything. Be hard, be harsh. But recognize that we as humans don't have to stay that way.
So how does this all apply? Simpson should (and will be) punished. But he needs to be given a chance to repair, reconcile, and rehabilitate IF he's willing to put in an insane amount of work. It's not black and white. I wish it were, but there's a million shades of gray. So before we judge so swiftly, just remember:
It takes just one bad day. Not acceptable, but I truly hope he see's this as an eye opener to repair and improve himself, and move forward with a better life.
(Happy to discuss more directly with anyone who likes)
