Marriage & Relationships Posts on Crowch

Domestic violence is pain that often remains hidden. It happens behind closed doors, in families that may look “perfect” from the outside. But the truth is, violence can affect anyone, and it slowly destroys lives, leaving scars that run deep.

October is the month when we shine a light on this issue worldwide. The color purple becomes a symbol of hope and support. It is our chance to say out loud: violence should never be the norm. And it is a reminder that silence does not mean safety — many suffer quietly, waiting to be heard.

What do we strive for this month?

• Acknowledgment. The first step is naming abuse for what it is, without excuses or denial.
• Awareness. Society must know about hotlines, shelters, crisis centers, and organizations that provide real help.
• Support. Simple words like “I am here for you” can mark the beginning of a new life for someone in danger.
• Change for the future. By raising children in a culture of respect, we build a generation free from fear.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is also about reminding survivors that help exists. Volunteers, counselors, doctors, lawyers, and everyday people dedicate themselves to making sure survivors have a choice — the choice of safety, dignity, and a life without pain.

We must break the silence that has surrounded this issue for too long. Every word spoken, every campaign, every story shared makes a difference. The louder our voices become, the weaker violence grows.

 October in purple is the voice of millions. A voice that says: “You are not alone. We hear you. We stand with you.”

Hey everyone, it’s Jared Larsen here.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how we show up for the people we care about. Not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. With so much happening around us—notifications buzzing, schedules packed, endless scrolling—it’s becoming harder and harder to just be with someone, fully and honestly. And yet, I’ve realized something simple but powerful: presence is one of the greatest gifts we can give.

Whether it’s with your partner, your parents, your siblings, your friends, or even strangers you meet while traveling, the quality of your presence can shape the quality of the relationship. I’ve had moments while traveling—sitting across from someone in a small café in Portugal or chatting with a local family in Thailand—where I was fully there, no distractions. And those conversations stuck with me far more than anything I’ve double-tapped on Instagram.

Lately, I’ve been applying this more consciously in my daily life. When I’m having dinner with someone, I try to keep my phone away and just listen. Not waiting to reply. Not zoning out. Just… listening. And the connections I’ve felt in return? Stronger. More meaningful. Sometimes even healing.

If there’s one small suggestion I could make—it’s this: be where you are, fully. When someone speaks to you, listen with your whole heart. Ask questions that matter. Notice the details. Remember what they say.

I’m not perfect at it. None of us are. But I’ve come to believe that practicing presence might be one of the most powerful ways to build stronger relationships, better understand ourselves, and genuinely enjoy the people in our lives.

So, here’s to putting our phones down a little more, looking into people’s eyes a little longer, and being human together.

Much love,
Jared