The Loudest Silence

In a 2017 Ebony Magazine article, the former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson bravely opens up about a deeply painful chapter of his childhood, revealing that he was molested starting at the tender age of 7. As he began to delve into this sensitive topic, he candidly remarked, "Well I don’t like to talk about that, I like to keep that where it was in the past, but I was molested as a child." This poignant statement struck a chord with me, as it echoed the experiences of countless individuals who, though they may not vocalize their trauma, are nonetheless screaming in silence. Their behaviors and coping mechanisms often serve as vivid, albeit quiet, expressions of the profound pain they carry within them. What they may refer to as their 'silence' is, in reality, a complex tapestry woven from buried heartbreak, confusion, and a myriad of unresolved emotions. This hidden anguish grows like weeds in a neglected garden, with roots that are deeply entrenched in both the heart and mind. It can emerge unexpectedly, manifesting in peculiar and sometimes alarming ways. For some individuals, the trauma manifests as aggressive behaviors, which can often be addressed and treated through compassion, love, and professional therapy. These individuals may struggle to understand their actions, yet with the right support, they can find a path toward healing and redemption. On the other hand, there are those who allow their pain to transform them into something far more sinister—monsters who wreak havoc not only on their own lives but also on the lives of others. These individuals may become destructive forces that kill the heart, mind, and body, sometimes leading to tragic outcomes that result in the loss of life, both their own and that of innocent victims. It is important to note that society often turns a blind eye to these monsters, labeling them as irredeemable. However, we must pause to consider the critical question: how many opportunities did we, as a community, have to intervene and help these individuals confront their demons before they were consumed by them? When did we lose the ability to care for those who are suffering? When did we stop asking the hard questions and seeking to understand the underlying issues that lead to such tragic transformations? These are questions that demand our attention and reflection.

Mike Tyson channeled his pain into fighting, which enabled him to secure victories. It's uncertain how many of those victories were driven by him fighting for his survival. Despite having this outlet, he still had to navigate a life filled with trauma, much of which he inflicted upon himself in his adult years. We must hold ourselves accountable to provide better opportunities.

Trauma can be a knock punch in life

So, why should we actively seek answers to these pressing concerns? Because the reality is stark: more monsters are being created every day. Each day that passes without addressing the root causes of trauma, neglect, and abuse contributes to the cycle of pain that perpetuates further suffering. We must advocate for open dialogues about mental health, trauma, and the importance of community support. By fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to share their stories, we can begin to break the cycle and prevent the emergence of new monsters. Only through understanding, compassion, and proactive engagement can we hope to heal the wounds of the past and protect future generations from the same fate.

On the other side of the loud silence are those who know but choose to look away. Whether metaphorically or naturally, they find comfort in willful ignorance. While they are not the abusers, they share equal responsibility for the wrongdoing. Often, their inaction is driven by fear, but as adults, they must learn to overcome it. By doing so, they not only save the child but also themselves. Furthermore, those who cross paths with that child will benefit, as they will encounter someone who is not merely trying to escape trauma but is either healed or aware of the path to healing.

This installation is short, but the communication goal is enormous. That goal is, "Protect the Children, Protect the Future".

• This blog serves as a call to action. As children grow up, they often move across the country or even to different parts of the world, carrying the effects of any crimes (physical or mental) with them. Therefore, I believe that crimes against children should be prosecuted in federal court. At the very least, the penalties should be significant and life-changing. In conclusion, reach out to your state and federal legislators. Express your desire for robust child protection laws to safeguard our future. Children deserve a fair chance if we expect them to lead the next generation effectively..

[Mike Tyson Admits to Being Sexually Abused As A Child by Shantell E. Jamison, JULY 26, 2017]