Chapter 11 - Why I punched Bethany
My attorney was named Simone Park.
She did not congratulate me for punching my sister.
Several friends did.
That annoyed her.
“People are going to tell you they would have done worse.”
“They already are.”
“They are not helping you.”
I knew.
The video showed one punch.
Bethany was seated.
I was holding Rosie partly against my left side.
No threat from Bethany in that second.
The prosecutor could have charged me with misdemeanor assault.
Instead, after reviewing the immediate context, my lack of record, my prompt disclosure, and Bethany’s minor injury, the case was resolved through a diversion arrangement.
Counseling.
No-contact order.
Costs.
No conviction if completed successfully.
I accepted.
No complaint.
When Rosie eventually asked:
“Did you hit Aunt Bethany for me?”
I answered:
“I hit her because I was furious.”
“Because she hurt me.”
“Yes.”
“So for me.”
“No.”
She frowned.
I continued:
“Protecting you means getting you safe. The punch happened after you were already in my arms. That part was me losing control.”
Rosie thought.
“Grandpa lost control too.”
May you like
“Yes.”
Children notice consistency faster than adults.
