The Hands That Rock The Cradle

I received a video on Facebook that disturbed me because I saw this young girl slapping her infant baby.  She kept slapping, slapping, and slapping her child. The baby kept screaming and crying but she continued. I would like to know what triggered this young girl to abuse her child in this manner. I was thinking maybe the child wasn't hers. The young girl could have been babysitting the infant.  A lot of theories came to mind as to the role this young girl played in this baby's life. I couldn't believe what I was seeing because I have children of my own.

As a result of viewing the video, it prompted me to write this blog because I was thinking of other infants being abused. Also, I wanted to encourage other young mothers to be aware that child abuse is an act that should be dealt with. I know firsthand being a mother that motherhood can be extremely challenging. It takes a lot of patience, and learning from your experience. Also, it may become challenging mentally, therefore; if any mother senses that it has become unbearable do not be afraid to admit it to a friend or a family member.  Also, if there’s a mother who senses the desire to harm their child, call the authorities before taking steps toward abuse. Some mother may not consider striking their child abusive, however; it is in the manner in which you execute the act.  A young mother should never feel alone because other young mothers are struggling through a similar situation and, therefore; need a safe haven for their child.

Additionally, I think there needs to be a support system for these young mothers whose backs are against the wall, or when motherhood has become overwhelming. I am unable to place myself in this young girl’s stance, and assume I know what she was struggling with in her life, however; I can disclose if she had a support system the outcomes could have been different. A support system is vital for this generation of young mothers, and if a change doesn't come it is simply going to get worse for the next generations of young mothers. The only ones who will suffer are their children. It takes a village to stop the suffering by the hands that rock the cradle. 

Child abuse is a behavior that should never be tolerated. Having children is the most precious gift that any woman can possess. Many women are unable to have children and wish to be in a position to bring a child into this universe. Furthermore, child abuse is a criminal act. Some may think jail is the appropriate punishment for a person who abuses a child.  In my opinion, I don't deem jail to be the optimal punishment for a child abuser. What is incarceration going to teach the abuser? When a person is incarcerated without getting to the underlying problem that person will become a recurring offender. Why do people do the things they do is the million dollars question?

In conclusion, I am unclear what brings a person to their breaking point, thus; abusing a child is never the answer, therefore don’t be so quick to jump to your own assumption. I am looking to initiate a support system online for young mothers, therefore; I am seeking a village to support me in this venture. Please send inquiries to queenrashiema@gmail.com if you’re interested.

Kimmie Merritt