Editor:
I am extremely impressed by this week’s editorial (Jennifer Fumiko Cahill, “The Good Ones,” Oct. 8, 2026). You covered a lot of territory that was clear and concise. Thank you for taking the tact that you chose. The two instances of abusers represent two very different motives for abuse, but the victim is still the one injured.
Your writing style in this editorial is powerful. I can sense the anger you have concerning this topic. It is measured but most effective at driving several points. You ran the gamut of emotions that are triggered by a host of manipulative excuses that hit the bullseye.
For decades people in power and individual perpetrators have successfully shunned and escaped accountability. At this time, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Isn’t that the way it has been forever. Only once have I intervened in what was a prelude to abuse. The relief in the victim’s eye bored into my heart. It was luck that allowed this. I am grateful that it ended mostly well. The abuser ran off. I chose to stay with the victim until they could carry on with what they were doing.
Again, this is an excellent piece of journalism. I am glad to know that you provide many stories on a range of topics. It’s always enjoyable to read your reviews and recipes, as well as serious episodes in life. This one struck home.
Stephen Avis, Ferndale
This article appears in Big Backyard Visitors.
