In my non-profit work, from which I am finally about to retire, I have encountered many abused women through agencies and shelters. The stories of some are horrific, from physical beatings and torture to emotional and spiritual abuse or constant browbeating. It is a systematic destruction of the spirit.

The saddest thing is that so many return for more of the same because, as one lady told me, "I'd rather the devil I know than the one I haven't met." These songs, especially by those who have direct knowledge, are - and should be - powerful. There is no weaker or more detestable man than one who abuses women and children.