Dear Editor,

As a father-to-be, I will remind my child of the importance of healthy relationships. Knowing it is hard to start the conversation, here is some guidance to begin:

-Be a role model for supportive, healthy relationships with your partner.

-Teach your children to recognize the warning signs of abuse and inform them of resources available to help them or anyone in an abusive relationship.

-Show them that everyone can make a difference by supporting survivors of domestic violence.

-Set an example by helping victims of domestic violence.

Donate your old PDA or wireless phone to programs such as the Verizon Wireless HopeLine program, which recycles phones for domestic violence victims. This will support the work of shelters like SafeHouse in Shelby County.

We can make a difference by talking to our children about healthy relationships and showing them how easy it is to help someone in need. Take an active role in addressing domestic violence, and give the gift that can last a lifetime.