Brenda Clubine

We arrived in New Mexico at the Lodge and - WOW - was it amazing. That evening we had a screening at the Ruidoso High School open for the Community. After watching the film I was honored by the questions and interaction of the community members. What can I say other than this Community truly gets it!! They completely support their local shelter, The Nest and all they offer to the victims of domestic violence.

I the next day I was able to return to the High School again and speak to the drama class. What an awesome group of young people. These young people are eager to know the warning signs of abuse and the cycle of violence in teen dating and relationships. It meant a lot to speak to a couple of the young ladies afterward that shared with me they are or have been in an abusive relationship already and what it makes them feel. It means a lot to me that these young people realize they don’t deserve this type of behavior and that are worthy of a life free from abuse in all aspects.

The same evening we were invited to The Nest shelter and it was amazing. The staff that run this shelter truly care and work hard to ensure these women and children know they are safe and worthy and are given the tools necessary to live a life abuse free on their own.

During this evening, a medicine woman was in attendance to smudge the shelter of ugly spirits from abusers that linger in these victims lives. What an awesome experience to share!!! I was then personally saged and presented with an honor I can not begin to express, the Medal of Peace from the Mescalero Apache Reservation. What an absolutely profound experience. I want to say Thank you to not only the Community of Ruidoso for recognizing the victims of abuse and stepping-up but all those who give their time, love, support and prayers to the victims now survivors. It was an honor beyond words to be there!!