The Rihanna and Chris Brown Saga Continues

Domestic violence, or what is known today as partner violence, has always been a serious issue in our society. It can cause serious harm to individuals who, for whatever reason, choose to stay in these unhealthy relationships. This awful issue is also sadly rather widespread, even among celebrities.

I have followed coverage of the abusive former relationship between Chris Brown and Rihanna. It seemed so surreal when I first saw the infamous photos of Rihanna's bruised face. As a woman, as well as a human being, I truly sympathized with her situation. Some have tried to justify why Brown lashed out against his ex-girlfriend, but there is nothing anyone could say that would convince me that this was okay. Raising your hand against someone is NEVER acceptable, especially if the person is physically weaker than you.

I wish Rihanna would have stood up to Brown in a more open manner. It's hard to put your personal life out in the open, but, in her case, it was already out there to begin with. Rihanna could have represented battered women everywhere, but instead she stayed silent, almost implying that what happened was okay.

Now it's even rumored that the two are actually sneaking around to see each other, and that frankly saddens me. Love is a strong force that binds people together, but violence does not equal love. I hope that she will be able to see this one day and completely separate herself from Brown.