Pink is absolutely everywhere. It is in stores, yogurt labels and even on the cleats of professional football players. The color pink in October tells us about breast cancer awareness. It reminds us of those we have lost to the terrible disease and brings up positive conversation about treatment and preventative care in October.

Typical October colors are red, orange and yellow with the changing of the leaves and wild pumpkin patches that grow, fit for a hay ride.

But one color is taking a back seat to all of this festivity. The color purple. Purple — also thought of as the symbol of royalty in some countries is the color that represents domestic violence awareness which is also in October.

Domestic violence is something that plagues families rich and poor, black and white. Hate and violence can affect people from all types of backgrounds.

In a 2010 annual report by the Alabama Criminal Justice System, there were 18,239 violent offenses in the state that were reported. Those are just the cases reported — imagine how many more were kept secret.

Alabama is also the second highest state for women that are killed by men.

The list of ways our county, area and state could improve itself go on and on. Better education and more funding are on our minds, no matter what political affiliation, as we enter this election. But let us not forget that it is hate and pure evil that enter into families in which people that are being abused. This is the real detractor for greatness in a community that seeks excellence.

Thankfully there are people in the area that dedicate their lives to serving those who are victims of this horrible crime.

Sabra Sanctuary is a resource for women and children who have been affected by domestic violence of some type. It is places like these that survive on limited funding and pure passion and love in order to stay open and operating.

As you see pink and remember what it stands for, do not forget the color purple. It used to stand for royalty and it still should. For “blessed are the meek for they will inherit the earth,” Matthew 5:10.

If you suspect that someone is a victim of domestic violence contact Sabra Sactuary 334-874-8711 or use the state crisis line at 1-800-650-6522. Both numbers can be reached 24 hours a day.