Why do we keep silent…

Why do we often choose to remain silent instead of speaking up and taking action? Why do we look away or move away when we see someone being violent and someone else clearly suffering as a result? Are we held back by fear or guilt? Or is it shame because of our own personal experiences?

By remaining silent or not responding, you empower the person who is causing you or others suffering..

By remaining silent, you are choosing to approve of such behavior..

By remaining silent, you are choosing to suffer.. which may end someday.. but may also end very tragically for someone..

Many of us have our own personal experiences from the past, it doesn’t matter anymore whether it is related to someone close to you’s addiction to alcohol, suddenness or violence. The important thing is that it leaves its mark on us, which follows us like a shadow throughout our lives, occasionally reminding us of itself as a manifestation of some unexpected panic attack or inexplicable uncertainty in everyday life.

Based on the above, I have a request for you: if you see or experience it, react! React even if you believe that you deserve it or are guilty of it yourself. React even for the sake of others, your loved ones. Violence, including mental violence, has no justification!

React if you notice a change in mood or unusual behavior in your loved one or colleague, approach them and show genuine interest. Ask how they are doing and is everything still okay?

In return for taking action, we all get a better and safer life, for ourselves and our loved ones.

Non-violent and safe coexistence for all of us!

Kurmet Vasser
SOL Baltics Latvia Manager