The story of Tina Davis and how she was shot seven times by someone who used to be close with her is tragic and horrible. It’s horrible that anyone would have to go through what she did. But – how Tina has handled the attack and the recovery is nothing short of miraculous.
She has no doubt in her mind that God was there protecting her, and it certainly seems He was there commanding bullets to ricochet off the tile and commanding more bullets to change trajectory while banging and tearing their way through her body.
When I asked her if she was willing to share her story, she said, “I’d love to! God’s been so good to me! I share my story every chance I get, to lift His name up.” I pray that God continues to fully restore her body and her life.
She and others who have survived violent attacks are such special people who can have a dramatic impact on the people around them.
Tina’s story actually reminded me of two domestic violence awareness events I participated in several years ago, in 2012 and 2013. One was a dinner and art fundraiser where they displayed paintings and read poetry out loud. And, the other was a 5K run called Heather’s Hope. After the run, three women stood before the crowd and retold their nightmares.
One woman was lit on fire only after she was hit repeatedly with a hammer and other objects. Another lady was shot in the head but was coherent enough to witness her two kids be shot and killed. The other lady, now twenty-eight years old, told of how her high school sweetheart transformed into monster, stabbing her over thirty times.
Every one of these stories are truly terrifying and horrible and they happen all to often. Evil exists and we all need to be vigilant and guard ourselves physically and spiritually. I wish such violence didn’t exist.
The fact Tina and these women can turn their attacks into platforms to help others who may be in bad relationships, is awe inspiring and may save many lives.
I extremely rarely write poetry as I prefer to write fiction stories, but I did write a piece to be included in that dinner and art fundraiser I mentioned earlier. Tina’s story inspired me to share it with you all too.
“Whispers of Grace”
I’ve been accused
bloodied
and bruised
I’ve been unloved
and used
I can’t fight this war
I can’t love him anymore
I fall on my knees and spill
my rage
my fear
my sorrow
I feel a comforting caress on my cheek
I raise my gaze to hear an angel speak
I am bolstered with strength and conviction
I do have a choice
With renewed hope I make my escape
I run to safety and rejoice
For I will live to see another tomorrow
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Lauren Bearden is lifestyles editor for The News Observer. She can be reached at 706-632-2019 or by email at lauren@thenewsobserver.com.