Do you remember the story of the boy who cried wolf? If you don’t, you surely understand the concept of it. If you pretend like you are in need of something, but you really aren’t, eventually people won’t pay attention to you any more.
While the boy in the story ultimately harmed himself because of his falsehood, it doesn’t always work that way. There are times when others are placed in harm’s way because of the selfishness of others.
I believe this is going to be part of the ‘fall-out’ from the Jodi Arias murder trial. Arias is on trial for the murder of her boyfriend, Travis Alexander. After telling all sorts of stories about what happened on the day of Travis’ death, Jodi ran out of stories that involved other people. Her narrative then switched to herself. She claimed that she killed Travis out of necessity because she was abused by him and she was afraid that he was going to kill her first.
The story doesn’t add up, and there is quite convincing evidence (at least to me) of Jodi committing premeditated murder. Ultimately, I believe she will be found guilty, and will at least, spend the rest of her life behind bars. Unfortunately however, her lies will have grave ramifications for true victims of domestic violence.
Victims of #DV are told by their abusers that they are worthless and that no one else would ever want to be with them. They’re told that they are stupid and wrong and entirely expendable. Unfortunately, these manipulative tactics are effective and victims believe that they don’t have stories that anyone else would believe. I’ve spent many hours with these victims, letting them know that God loves them and that we are so grateful to get the chance to assist them on their journeys back to real life.
Because of Jodi Arias’ lies, victims are not going to feel as safe about speaking up. Why? Because victims will be afraid that they will be looked at with the same skepticism that Arias is receiving. Sadly, that is a realistic fear. When people cry wolf, victims suffer.
I want you to know something…if you are a victim and you are thinking of telling your story, please know that it is safe with me. I will help you to the very best of my ability. Do not allow Jodi Arias or any other liars to keep you silent.
For more information or if you are ready to get help now, please click here.
Peace,
Neil Schori
neilschori.wordpress.com 
I can’t understand why some DV advocates are supporting her. It is a slap in the face to real victims.
Excellent post, Neil. When I was disclosing about the way my husband was abusing me, I was very apprehensive that people would think I was crying wolf. Justice for genuine victims is harder to obtain because there are inveterate liars (abusers) masquerading as victims.
Sharing this on A Cry For Justice’s facebook page.
A Cry for Justice is a blog that is calling the Evangelical Church to awaken to domestic violence and abuse in its midst.
cryingoutforjustice.wordpress.com
Barbara~ I’ve been concerned about this since I first heard about the Arias trial. Thanks for sharing the post! I appreciate you.
I am not following this closely, but have seenshowslike48 Hours on her…. I think she is such a sociopath that people see that first and foremost. I only hope that IPV victims will not compare themselves or their situations with hers…. The fact that you are there for all people who need help,just as SMM was…gives everyone hope and a sense of purpose.
Donna “Ladyjustice”.
I couldn’t agree more, Donna!
You do amazing work and you are so right! It will be a sad day if she walks for all victims of DV.
Part of the problem is, the abusers are often very charming and very convincing. My own parents took my abusive ex’s side. They tried to talk me into going back, saying that nobody would ever love me like he did.
I’ve seen similar circumstances in the lives of many victims that I’ve been able to help. I’m so sorry that you experienced that!
Neil
Katprint,
I couldn’t agree with you more. Many, if not most, abusers are very charming. That’s been my experience. Many prayers sent your way.
Martha
Reblogged this on i will not be silent and commented:
I have found it hard to listen to anything about this trial. Something has always felt off for me. I can not say with any amount of certainty if she was truly abused or not. But I do believe her plight has set us back…