When do you turn the other cheek...

...and when do you load for bear?

Because right now?  I am not only tempted to load for bear, I'm tempted to open a giant can of righteous whoopass.  My family has been threatened, my dogs harmed...those are two things you don't mess with in my world.  And the tiny, pathetic, emotionally disabled person causing all of it does not even care whose life she ruins in the process.

I have struggled all evening with my feelings.  I am justified in seeking reparation...and I have some legal recourse if I choose to take it.  I may still - once I've had the night to mull it over.

But I do know, more than anything, this person needs prayer.  Lots, and lots, and LOTS of prayer.  This act isn't the first messed up thing in her life.  I know of the emotional trouble she's had over the past year or so.

But one thing I have learned in the last 6 months - praying for someone, and asking God to help in their life does NOT mean not drawing boundaries that protect your children.  SO...in a way, legal reparation to keep this person from further damaging herself AND my family is the sensible thing to do,

Yes, I am processing my emotions in writing.  I mean, it's better than eating my feelings right?  (One sea salt caramel DID lose it's life before I completed this post.

But...it was dark chocolate, so...health food.  :-)